Salaries in Chicago, IL

Chicago’s secret is that it’s not actually a high-cost city, at least not by the numbers. With a cost of living index of 102.6—just a hair above the national average—many assume it’s a wallet-buster. But compared to New York or San Francisco, it offers professional salaries that stretch surprisingly far.

Let’s talk purchasing power. The median household income sits at $74,474, and the average salary across all roles is $70,311. After adjusting for that modest COL, that average becomes $68,529. The key is housing: a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,507 a month. That’s not cheap, but it’s a far cry from the staggering rents in other major metros. Your paycheck simply goes further here, especially if you’re in a dual-income household.

Who actually thrives? The city’s economy is still built on a mix of old-school industry and modern tech. Marketing managers and software developers at firms like Salesforce or Google’s Chicago hub can earn well into the six figures. But you can’t ignore the giants: United Airlines, Boeing, and the healthcare systems like Northwestern Memorial are massive employers. The city’s 4.5% unemployment rate shows there’s still steady demand.

Here’s the honest take: wages are decent, but they’re not keeping pace with the galloping inflation of the last few years. The catch is that while Chicago isn’t prohibitively expensive, it’s not a bargain either. It works best for mid-career professionals, especially in tech, healthcare, and finance, who see their salaries go a long way. For those just starting out or in lower-wage service jobs, it can still be a squeeze.

The data below breaks down the top-paying roles and what you can actually expect to take home.