What is the average salary in Chicago, IL?
Chicago offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in Chicago is $84,419. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape of the city. Many industries contribute to this average, including finance, healthcare, and technology.
Here are some of the top-paying jobs in Chicago:
- Software Developers: $122,773
- Financial Managers: $140,727
- Physicians: $158,682
- Lawyers: $176,636
- Airline Pilots: $194,591
- Chief Executives: $212,545
These figures show that skilled professionals can find rewarding careers in Chicago. The city's strong economy provides ample opportunities for growth and advancement.
What are the best paying jobs in Chicago, IL?

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Staff Physician
Average Salary: $364,854
This role involves diagnosing and treating patients. It requires working in hospitals and clinics. Companies like Northwestern Memorial Hospital offer many opportunities.
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Psychiatrist
Average Salary: $309,992
This position focuses on mental health. It involves therapy and medication management. Rush University Medical Center is a leading employer in this field.
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Owner Operator
Average Salary: $306,629
This job involves running a business. It includes managing staff and operations. Companies like Yellow Cab Co. provide many opportunities.
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Average Salary: $260,217
This role provides anesthesia care. It requires working in surgical settings. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is a top employer.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $250,137
This position involves dental care. It includes exams, cleanings, and treatments. Many private practices and clinics offer jobs.
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Physician
Average Salary: $237,387
This role involves patient care. It includes diagnosis and treatment. Rush University Medical Center offers many positions.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $228,763
This position provides general medical care. It involves routine check-ups and treatment. Many hospitals and clinics offer jobs.
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Radiologist
Average Salary: $214,622
This role involves interpreting medical images. It requires working in hospitals and clinics. Northwestern Memorial Hospital is a leading employer.
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Chief Operating Officer
Average Salary: $207,526
This position involves managing operations. It requires overseeing staff and processes. Many companies offer this role.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $190,738
This role provides legal advice. It involves managing legal issues. Many firms offer this position.
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What are the best paying jobs in Chicago, IL without a degree?

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Dry Cleaner
Average Salary: $97,788
This role involves cleaning and pressing clothes. It requires attention to detail and knowledge of different fabrics. Companies like Dry Cleaners of Chicago offer opportunities.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $63,083
Canvassers visit homes and businesses to gather information. They need strong communication skills and the ability to work independently. Local political campaigns and market research firms hire canvassers.
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Terminal Operator
Average Salary: $61,343
Terminal operators handle the loading and unloading of goods. They must follow safety protocols and have good physical stamina. Companies like XPO Logistics offer terminal operator positions.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $60,713
Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They need strong leadership skills and experience in the food service industry. Restaurants like Potbelly Sandwich Shop and Giordano's Pizza hire managers.
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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $60,645
Concrete laborers mix and pour concrete. They must be physically fit and able to work in various weather conditions. Construction companies like Walsh Construction employ concrete laborers.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $58,346
Irrigation technicians install and maintain irrigation systems. They need knowledge of plumbing and landscaping. Companies like Chicago Lawn Irrigation offer technician positions.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $52,619
To Go specialists prepare and package food for customers. They need to work quickly and accurately. Restaurants like McDonald's and Dunkin' hire To Go specialists.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $52,497
Kitchen managers supervise kitchen staff and ensure food quality. They need strong communication and organizational skills. Restaurants like The Gage Groups hire kitchen managers.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $45,865
Arborist climbers trim trees and remove branches. They need to be physically fit and comfortable working at heights. Companies like Davey Tree Expert Company offer climber positions.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $45,646
Concrete finishers smooth and finish concrete surfaces. They need to be detail-oriented and physically capable. Construction companies like Mortenson Construction hire concrete finishers.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Chicago, IL?

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Palo Alto Networks
Average Salary: $262,080
Palo Alto Networks is a cybersecurity leader. They offer a range of security solutions. Their work helps protect businesses and networks from cyber threats.
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SAP
Average Salary: $235,562
SAP is a software company. They provide enterprise software to manage business operations and customer relations. SAP is known for its strong financial performance and innovative solutions.
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Leader Freight Systems
Average Salary: $228,724
Leader Freight Systems is a logistics company. They offer transportation and logistics services. They focus on delivering goods efficiently and reliably.
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Selby Jennings
Average Salary: $212,019
Selby Jennings is a financial services firm. They provide investment banking and wealth management services. They help clients with financial planning and investment strategies.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $186,765
ServiceNow is an IT service management company. They offer cloud-based software solutions. Their products help businesses manage their IT operations more efficiently.
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Okta
Average Salary: $186,339
Okta is a cloud security company. They provide identity and access management solutions. Their services help businesses secure their digital assets and manage user access.
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EY
Average Salary: $182,492
EY is a global professional services firm. They offer audit, tax, consulting, and advisory services. EY is known for its strong reputation and client base.
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Google
Average Salary: $177,432
Google is a technology giant. They offer a range of internet services and products. Google is known for its innovative approach and market dominance.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $176,567
Amazon Web Services is a cloud computing platform. They offer a wide range of cloud services. AWS is a leader in the cloud computing industry.
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Expedia Group
Average Salary: $174,346
Expedia Group is a travel company. They offer online travel services. They help people book flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.
How does the cost of living in Chicago, IL compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Chicago, IL, shows some significant differences compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Chicago stand at 130, which is 30% higher than the national average. This means that job seekers need to budget more for housing, as it is a major expense. Groceries in Chicago also cost more, with an index of 110, making them 10% pricier than the average.
Utilities in Chicago are slightly above the national average, with an index of 105. This means utilities cost 5% more than the average. Transportation costs are also higher, at 120, which is 20% more than the nationwide average. Healthcare costs, however, are lower in Chicago, with an index of 95, which means they are 5% cheaper than the average. Miscellaneous costs, like entertainment and personal care, are at 115, which is 15% higher than the average. These figures show that while some costs are lower, others are significantly higher, affecting overall living expenses.



