Graphic Designer Graphic Designer Salary in Chicago, IL

Graphic Designer Salary in Chicago, IL

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Graphic Designer make in Chicago, IL?

The average salary for a Graphic Designer is $63,547 per year in Chicago, IL.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $63,547 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $5,296 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $1,222 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $31 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graphic designers in Chicago, IL, enjoy a vibrant job market with competitive salaries. On average, a graphic designer can earn about $63,547 per year. This figure provides a solid baseline, but salaries can vary based on experience, skills, and the specific industry. For instance, those with more experience and specialized skills often earn higher salaries.

Let's look at the salary distribution to understand the range better. The chart shows that:

  • About 2.13% earn less than $42,000
  • A little over 10% earn between $42,000 and $50,000
  • Around 19% earn between $50,000 and $60,000
  • About 20% earn between $60,000 and $70,000
  • About 10% earn between $70,000 and $80,000
  • About 10% earn between $80,000 and $90,000
  • The top earners, around 2.13%, make over $100,000 a year
This range shows that there are opportunities for growth and advancement in this field.

Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL
View all Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the highest paying cities for a Graphic Designer near Chicago, IL?

Graphic designers can find lucrative opportunities near Chicago, IL. Cities like Aurora and Des Plaines offer some of the highest average salaries for graphic design positions, with incomes reaching up to $60,000 annually. Securing a graphic design role in these areas can lead to a rewarding career with competitive compensation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Graphic Designer jobs near Chicago, IL, highlighting Aurora, IL with the highest at $59,914 and Elgin, IL with the lowest at $42,175.

  1. Aurora, IL
    Average Salary: $59,914
    In Aurora, IL, design professionals enjoy a thriving community with opportunities in various sectors. Companies like Wintrust Financial and Aurora Public Schools provide diverse projects. The city’s vibrant arts scene supports creative growth and networking.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Aurora, IL


  2. Des Plaines, IL
    Average Salary: $59,256
    Des Plaines, IL, offers a mix of corporate and independent design roles. Here, designers can find work with firms such as Allstate and various advertising agencies. The city’s proximity to Chicago allows for easy collaboration and career growth.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Des Plaines, IL


  3. Tinley Park, IL
    Average Salary: $59,192
    Tinley Park, IL, presents a cozy environment for design enthusiasts. With companies like Jewel-Osco and local boutiques, designers can explore various projects. The community’s focus on family and tradition creates a supportive work culture.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Tinley Park, IL


  4. Waukegan, IL
    Average Salary: $55,172
    Waukegan, IL, combines coastal charm with a growing design market. Designers here work with firms like Lake County Government and local startups. The city’s waterfront location offers a relaxed yet inspiring backdrop for creativity.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Waukegan, IL


  5. Orland Park, IL
    Average Salary: $54,912
    Orland Park, IL, provides a suburban setting ideal for designers. Local companies like Orland Park School District offer steady projects. The community’s emphasis on education and family makes it a pleasant place to work and live.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Orland Park, IL


  6. Naperville, IL
    Average Salary: $51,609
    Naperville, IL, is known for its tech and business sectors, providing abundant design opportunities. Companies like Naperville Community Unit School District and tech firms value creative input. The city’s modern infrastructure supports professional development.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Naperville, IL


  7. Schaumburg, IL
    Average Salary: $49,562
    Schaumburg, IL, boasts a dynamic design scene with corporate giants like Boeing and Motorola Solutions. Designers here engage in diverse projects, from branding to digital media. The city’s business-friendly environment fosters innovation and career advancement.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Schaumburg, IL


  8. Oak Park, IL
    Average Salary: $45,250
    Oak Park, IL, offers a historic and artistic environment for designers. The city’s rich cultural heritage inspires creativity. Working with local companies like Google and local creative studios provides unique design challenges and opportunities.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Oak Park, IL


  9. Rockford, IL
    Average Salary: $44,756
    Rockford, IL, combines industrial roots with modern design trends. Designers here find work with companies like Rockford Health System and local manufacturing firms. The city’s revitalization efforts create a vibrant space for creative professionals.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Rockford, IL


  10. Elgin, IL
    Average Salary: $42,175
    Elgin, IL, presents a blend of tradition and modernity for design professionals. Local businesses and companies like Caterpillar Inc. offer diverse projects. The city’s supportive community and growing arts scene provide a nurturing environment for creativity.
    Find Graphic Designer jobs in Elgin, IL

What are the best paying companies for a Graphic Designer in Chicago, IL?

Graphic designers in Chicago, IL, have several companies to choose from where they can earn a good salary. CannonDesign offers an average salary of $84,046, making it a top choice. Keeper Security, Inc. and Cushman & Wakefield also provide competitive wages, with averages around $77,267 and $66,415 respectively. Consider exploring these companies if a good salary is important in your job search. WILSON SPORTING GOODS, Hub International, and the University of Illinois offer salaries around $64,550, $63,333, and $58,207. The Chicago Transit Authority provides an average of $39,000, though it remains an option for those looking to enter the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Graphic Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, highlighting CannonDesign with the highest at $84,046 and Chicago Transit Authority with the lowest at $39,000.

  1. CannonDesign
    Average Salary: $84,046
    CannonDesign is a leading global design firm based in Chicago. This company offers Graphic Designer positions that require creativity and technical skills. CannonDesign's projects span across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and corporate. Their offices are in Chicago, with opportunities for remote work.


  2. Keeper Security, Inc.
    Average Salary: $77,267
    Keeper Security, Inc. is a cybersecurity firm with offices in Chicago. They seek Graphic Designers who can create compelling visual content for marketing and branding. Working here means you will be part of a growing team in the tech industry. The office is located downtown, with a vibrant atmosphere.


  3. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $66,415
    Cushman & Wakefield is a global real estate services firm based in Chicago. Graphic Designers here work on marketing materials and digital media. The company values creativity and innovation, providing opportunities to work on high-profile projects. Their offices are in the heart of the city, offering a dynamic work environment.


  4. WILSON SPORTING GOODS
    Average Salary: $64,550
    WILSON SPORTING GOODS is a renowned sporting goods manufacturer with offices in Chicago. Graphic Designers contribute to branding and promotional materials for sports products. This company is passionate about sports and offers a creative work environment. Their offices are in downtown Chicago, surrounded by various sports facilities.


  5. Hub International
    Average Salary: $63,333
    Hub International is a leading insurance brokerage firm in Chicago. Graphic Designers work on marketing campaigns and client materials. The company provides a stable environment with opportunities for growth. Their offices are centrally located, offering easy access to public transport and local amenities.


  6. University of Illinois
    Average Salary: $58,207
    The University of Illinois offers Graphic Designer positions that focus on campus communications and events. Designers here collaborate with various departments to create visual content. Working at a university provides a unique experience, blending creativity with education. The main campus is in Chicago, with additional locations across Illinois.


  7. Chicago Transit Authority
    Average Salary: $39,000
    The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) seeks Graphic Designers to enhance public transportation materials. Designers work on signs, maps, and digital media. This role offers the chance to impact the daily lives of many people. The CTA operates throughout the city, providing a diverse work experience.

Currently 1,029 Graphic Designer job openings, nationwide.

View Graphic Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

How's the job market for a Graphic Designer in the US?

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