General Counsel General Counsel Salary in Chicago, IL

General Counsel Salary in Chicago, IL

Updated on Aug 21, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a General Counsel make in Chicago, IL?

The average salary for a General Counsel is $198,178 per year in Chicago, IL.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $198,178 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $16,515 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $3,811 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $95 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Chicago, IL, a General Counsel typically earns an average yearly salary of $198,178. This salary range varies based on experience and specific employer. For those just starting, salaries can be lower, while experienced professionals often earn more.

Here are some common salary ranges based on experience:

  • Entry-level: $112,608
  • Early career: $135,098
  • Mid-career: $157,588
  • Experienced: $180,079
  • Senior level: $202,569
  • Highly experienced: $225,059
  • Top-tier: $247,549
  • Very experienced: $270,039
  • Highly seasoned: $292,529
  • Master level: $315,020
  • Expert level: $337,510
  • Top expert: $360,000

General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL
View all General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the highest paying cities for a General Counsel near Chicago, IL?

Job seekers looking for General Counsel roles near Chicago, IL, have great opportunities in cities like Aurora, IL. Here, General Counsel roles offer an average salary of $207,153, making it one of the top-paying areas. For those open to relocating, nearby Naperville and Schaumburg also offer competitive salaries, with averages of $169,223 and $161,806, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for General Counsel jobs near Chicago, IL, highlighting Aurora, IL with the highest at $207,153 and Schaumburg, IL with the lowest at $161,806.

  1. Aurora, IL
    Average Salary: $207,153
    In Aurora, IL, legal professionals thrive in a vibrant business environment. The city is home to notable companies like OSI Systems and Panasonic. Aurora offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place for legal experts.
    Find General Counsel jobs in Aurora, IL


  2. Naperville, IL
    Average Salary: $169,223
    Naperville, IL, stands out for its thriving corporate sector. Major companies such as Naperville Software, Inc. and ULTA Beauty offer excellent opportunities. The city's mix of professional growth and quality of life draws top talent in the legal field.
    Find General Counsel jobs in Naperville, IL


  3. Schaumburg, IL
    Average Salary: $161,806
    Schaumburg, IL, is known for its dynamic business scene. Companies like Motorola Solutions and Commonwealth Edison Company provide fertile ground for legal professionals. The city's family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant culture make it a desirable location for legal careers.
    Find General Counsel jobs in Schaumburg, IL

What are the best paying companies for a General Counsel in Chicago, IL?

Looking for a General Counsel position in Chicago, IL? Companies like PwC and Google lead the way with top-tier salaries, offering around $312,000 and $270,000, respectively. Lincoln International and Salesforce also provide competitive pay, with averages over $250,000. Securing a role with these firms can greatly boost career prospects and financial rewards.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for General Counsel jobs in Chicago, IL, highlighting PwC with the highest at $312,000 and Metra with the lowest at $136,400.

  1. PwC
    Average Salary: $312,000
    PwC offers General Counsel jobs that oversee legal matters across multiple industries. They have offices in Chicago, IL, and beyond.


  2. Google
    Average Salary: $270,000
    Google provides General Counsel positions that manage complex legal issues. Their Chicago office is one of many worldwide.


  3. LINCOLN INTERNATIONAL
    Average Salary: $250,313
    LINCOLN INTERNATIONAL has General Counsel roles focusing on risk management. They have operations in Chicago and other major cities.


  4. Salesforce
    Average Salary: $215,313
    Salesforce offers General Counsel positions that handle legal affairs for a global tech company. Their Chicago office is a key location.


  5. NielsenIQ
    Average Salary: $198,167
    NielsenIQ provides General Counsel roles in market research and analytics. They have an office in Chicago and others worldwide.


  6. Brookfield Properties
    Average Salary: $195,500
    Brookfield Properties offers General Counsel positions that oversee legal and real estate matters. Their Chicago office is a major hub.


  7. Blue Cross Blue Shield
    Average Salary: $173,850
    Blue Cross Blue Shield provides General Counsel roles that manage healthcare-related legal issues. They have offices in Chicago and other cities.


  8. Hyatt
    Average Salary: $170,250
    Hyatt offers General Counsel positions that handle legal matters for a global hospitality company. They have a significant presence in Chicago.


  9. Lessen
    Average Salary: $142,500
    Lessen provides General Counsel roles that focus on legal compliance and risk management. They have offices in Chicago and beyond.


  10. Metra
    Average Salary: $136,400
    Metra offers General Counsel positions that oversee legal matters for public transportation. Their main office is in Chicago, IL.

Currently 503 General Counsel job openings, nationwide.

View General Counsel Jobs in Chicago, IL

How's the job market for a General Counsel in the US?

Learn what a General Counsel does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a General Counsel today.
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