Illinois's 2026 Prevailing Wage Rates Published

Annual update supports fair wages, responsible contractors, and Illinois communities

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has published the 2026 prevailing wage rates for construction trades in every county across Illinois.

The updated rates took effect Wednesday, July 15, 2026, following IDOL's annual statewide survey conducted in June pursuant to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act.

The Act requires workers on publicly funded construction and infrastructure projects to be paid wages that reflect local standards. By ensuring workers receive locally prevailing wages, the law helps protect good-paying jobs, promotes fair competition among contractors, and keeps taxpayer investments supporting Illinois workers and communities.

Each year, IDOL determines prevailing wage rates by reviewing total compensation-including hourly base wages and annualized fringe benefits-commonly paid to workers performing similar work on public works projects within each locality.

"Illinois' prevailing wage law helps ensure that public investments create quality jobs while maintaining a level playing field for responsible contractors," said Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan. "Publishing these rates provides the transparency contractors, workers, and public agencies need as they plan and complete construction projects across our state."

Individuals who wish to object to the posted 2026 prevailing wage rates must submit a written objection to the Department by August 14, 2026. If an objection is received, it will be heard by an Administrative Law Judge.