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As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Direct Support Assistant in Illinois is $39,204 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $19.
However, a Direct Support Assistant's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Direct Support Assistant Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $42,741 | $3,562 | $822 | $21 |
| Average | $39,204 | $3,267 | $754 | $19 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,890 | $2,991 | $690 | $17 |
Beverly Farm Foundation - Godfrey, IL
Ada S. McKinley Community Services - Chicago, IL
Aspire Chicago - Hillside, IL
Active Visions - Chicago, IL
A Direct Support Assistant's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Direct Support Assistant's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Behaviora... Level Direct Support Assistant | $36,350 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Assistant | $32,800 |
| Direct Su... Level Direct Support Assistant | $39,434 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Assistant | $44,012 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Assistant | $44,068 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Direct Support Assistants. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
For Direct Support Assistant roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Healthcare, offers compensation 20% above the average. Conversely, Direct Support Assistant positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Direct Support Assistant as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | $47,044 | $23.0 | 20% |
Understanding how a Direct Support Assistant's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $42,741 | $3,562 | $822 | $21 |
| Average | $39,204 | $3,267 | $754 | $19 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,890 | $2,991 | $690 | $17 |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Direct Support Assistant job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
Progressive Housing, Inc.
Bloomington, IL
Progressive Housing, Inc. | Bloomington, IL
Direct Support Professional (DSP). We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with... more
7 Days Ago
Bliss Haven
Johnston City, IL
Bliss Haven | Johnston City, IL
Job Overview We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Direct Support Professional to join our team in providing exceptional care and support to individ... more
8 Days Ago
Keshet
Highland Park, IL
Keshet | Highland Park, IL
Residential Direct Support Professional. Highland Park Location - Highland Park, IL 60035. Overview. Salary Range $20.25 - $22.75 Hourly Position Type Full... more
8 Days Ago
Lighthouse Autism Center
Champaign, IL
Lighthouse Autism Center | Champaign, IL
RBT Position at Lighthouse Autism Center. Are you looking for a fun, rewarding career dedicated to helping children reach their full potential. If so, we w... more
8 Days Ago
Progressive Housing, Inc.
Taylorville, IL
Progressive Housing, Inc. | Taylorville, IL
Direct Support Professional (DSP). We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with... more
8 Days Ago
Alpha to Omega Living, LLC - CILA
South Holland, IL
Alpha to Omega Living, LLC - CILA | South Holland, IL
Alpha to Omega Living, LLC-CILA are currently seeking Direct Support Professionals - DSP's) with CILA EXPERIENCE who are DSP TRAINED/CERTIFIED for our resi... more
9 Days Ago
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