Salaries in Chicago, IL
What is the average salary in Chicago, IL?
Chicago, IL, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average salary in the city is around $80,398. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and role.
Here are some average salaries for different sectors in Chicago:
- Information Technology: $115,182
- Finance: $98,545
- Healthcare: $81,909
- Education: $65,273
- Retail: $48,636
What are the best paying jobs in Chicago, IL?

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General Dentist
Average Salary: $251,152
This role involves diagnosing and treating oral health issues. Dentists work in clinics and hospitals. They use advanced technology to provide care. Many dentists in Chicago work for both private practices and larger healthcare organizations.
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Primary Care Physician
Average Salary: $211,923
Primary care physicians offer general medical care. They diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. In Chicago, they often work for large hospitals and health systems. These doctors build long-term relationships with their patients.
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Physician
Average Salary: $184,411
Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in various specialties. In Chicago, many physicians are affiliated with top-tier hospitals. They often conduct research and teach medical students. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and compassion.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $174,812
General Counsel provides legal advice to companies. They handle legal issues and ensure compliance. In Chicago, General Counsel often work for large corporations. They manage legal teams and represent the company in court. This role requires excellent communication and negotiation skills.
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Dispatcher
Average Salary: $167,541
Dispatchers coordinate emergency services. They handle calls and direct resources. In Chicago, dispatchers work for police and fire departments. They must remain calm under pressure. This role is crucial for public safety and requires quick thinking.
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Director of Enterprise Strategy
Average Salary: $164,669
This role involves developing long-term business strategies. Directors work with executives to align goals. In Chicago, they often work for tech companies and financial institutions. They analyze market trends and create strategic plans. This role requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
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Chief Operating Officer
Average Salary: $162,185
Chief Operating Officers oversee daily operations. They ensure efficiency and effectiveness. In Chicago, they often work for large corporations. They manage teams and implement strategies. This role requires strong leadership and organizational skills.
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Solar Sales Representative
Average Salary: $160,167
Sales representatives promote solar energy solutions. They work with businesses and homeowners. In Chicago, they often sell to companies looking to reduce energy costs. They need strong communication skills and knowledge of solar technology. This role offers good growth opportunities.
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Enterprise Architect
Average Salary: $158,820
Enterprise Architects design IT systems. They ensure systems meet business needs. In Chicago, they often work for large tech companies. They collaborate with developers and business leaders. This role requires strong technical and problem-solving skills.
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Technical Architect
Average Salary: $158,065
Technical Architects design software solutions. They ensure systems are scalable and secure. In Chicago, they often work for tech firms. They collaborate with engineers and project managers. This role requires strong technical skills and attention to detail.
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What are the best paying jobs in Chicago, IL without a degree?

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Terminal Operator
Average Salary: $73,645
Operate cranes and other equipment to move goods. Work in busy ports and warehouses. Companies like XPO Logistics and C.H. Robinson offer these roles.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $64,885
Promote products and services by visiting businesses and homes. Gather information and feedback. Companies like Nielsen and SurveyMonkey offer these positions.
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High Reach Operator
Average Salary: $63,236
Use high-reach vehicles to access elevated areas. Perform maintenance and repairs. Companies like Comcast and Verizon hire for these roles.
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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $60,565
Mix, pour, and finish concrete. Work on construction sites. Companies like Walsh Construction and DPR Construction offer these jobs.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $57,951
Oversee daily operations of a restaurant. Manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Companies like McDonald's and Chipotle offer these roles.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $55,365
Supervise kitchen staff and ensure food quality. Manage inventory and budgets. Companies like Panera Bread and Starbucks offer these positions.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $54,383
Install and maintain irrigation systems. Ensure proper water usage. Companies like TruGreen and Lawn Doctor hire for these roles.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $46,164
Climb trees to trim branches and remove dead wood. Ensure tree health and safety. Companies like Davey Tree and Arbor Care offer these jobs.
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Loader
Average Salary: $45,977
Load and unload materials from trucks and ships. Use forklifts and other equipment. Companies like UPS and FedEx offer these roles.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $42,627
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. Plant flowers, trees, and shrubs. Companies like TruGreen and Lawn Doctor hire for these positions.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Chicago, IL?

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Fox Freight, Inc.
Average Salary: $361,537
Fox Freight, Inc. is a leading logistics company. They focus on providing top-notch freight services. Their team works hard to ensure timely and efficient deliveries.
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Empire National
Average Salary: $269,955
Empire National is a well-known insurance company. They offer a variety of insurance products. Their employees are dedicated to helping clients find the best coverage.
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Palo Alto Networks
Average Salary: $262,693
Palo Alto Networks is a cybersecurity firm. They develop software to protect businesses from cyber threats. Their innovative solutions are highly valued in the industry.
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Leader Freight Systems
Average Salary: $237,447
Leader Freight Systems is a logistics company. They specialize in freight management and transportation. Their team ensures smooth and efficient delivery services.
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Chicago Legal Search
Average Salary: $217,260
Chicago Legal Search is a legal staffing firm. They connect law firms with top legal talent. Their focus is on providing quality legal professionals to their clients.
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SAP
Average Salary: $210,864
SAP is a global software company. They offer enterprise software solutions. Their products help businesses manage their operations more efficiently.
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Selby Jennings
Average Salary: $198,326
Selby Jennings is a financial services firm. They offer investment banking and wealth management services. Their clients trust them for their financial expertise.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $181,956
ServiceNow is an IT service management company. They provide cloud-based software solutions. Their tools help businesses manage their IT services effectively.
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EY
Average Salary: $175,980
EY is a global professional services firm. They offer audit, tax, consulting, and advisory services. Their team helps businesses navigate complex challenges.
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Expedia Group
Average Salary: $170,954
Expedia Group is a travel company. They offer a range of travel services, including booking flights and hotels. Their goal is to make travel planning easy and convenient.
How does the cost of living in Chicago, IL compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Chicago, Illinois, shows some variations compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Chicago stand at 118, indicating that residents pay 18% more than the national average. This higher housing index reflects the demand and limited supply in the city, making it a significant factor for those considering relocation.
Other expenses also show differences. Groceries in Chicago cost 106, which is 6% higher than the average. Utilities, however, are slightly lower at 95, meaning residents pay 5% less for these services. Transportation costs are close to the average at 102, with a modest 2% increase. Healthcare costs are 94, which is 6% below the national average, offering some relief in this category. Miscellaneous expenses are at 108, showing an 8% increase over the average. Overall, while some areas like healthcare and utilities offer savings, housing and groceries present higher costs for Chicago residents.