Paralegal Paralegal Salary in Chicago, IL

Paralegal Salary in Chicago, IL

Updated on Sep 11, 2025
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Paralegal make in Chicago, IL?

The average salary for a Paralegal is $73,539 per year in Chicago, IL.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $73,539 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $6,128 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $1,414 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $35 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Chicago, IL, a Paralegal can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for Paralegals in this area is around $73,539. This figure can vary based on experience and specific industry. Paralegals with more experience often see higher salaries. The range of salaries can be quite broad, with some Paralegals earning as little as $44,863 and others earning up to $120,000 or more.

Several factors can influence a Paralegal's salary in Chicago. These include the size of the law firm, the type of law practiced, and the Paralegal's level of expertise. Larger firms and specialized practices often offer higher salaries. Paralegals who have additional certifications or specialize in high-demand areas like corporate law or litigation may also see higher pay. Experience plays a significant role, with more seasoned Paralegals commanding higher salaries.

Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL
View all Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL

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

Paralegals near Chicago, IL, can find some of the best pay in Aurora, IL, where the average salary reaches $99,499. This city offers a strong market for legal professionals. Des Plaines, IL, follows closely with an average salary of $68,926, making it another attractive option for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Paralegal jobs near Chicago, IL, highlighting Aurora, IL with the highest at $99,499 and Berwyn, IL with the lowest at $49,875.

  1. Aurora, IL
    Average Salary: $99,499
    In Aurora, legal professionals often work in a fast-paced environment. Many firms focus on personal injury and family law. Companies like Hinshaw & Culbertson and The Law Office of David A. Noll offer great opportunities.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Aurora, IL


  2. Des Plaines, IL
    Average Salary: $68,926
    Des Plaines has a strong legal community. Paralegals here often assist with corporate law and real estate. Firms such as Seyfarth Shaw LLP and Holland & Knight provide dynamic work settings.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Des Plaines, IL


  3. Schaumburg, IL
    Average Salary: $63,591
    Schaumburg offers a mix of corporate and litigation work. Paralegals often find roles in tech companies and law firms. Companies like DLA Piper and Kirkland & Ellis are prominent here.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Schaumburg, IL


  4. Evanston, IL
    Average Salary: $63,112
    Evanston provides a vibrant legal scene. Paralegals often work with nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. Firms like Jenner & Block and Sidley Austin LLP offer diverse experiences.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Evanston, IL


  5. Naperville, IL
    Average Salary: $62,873
    Naperville is known for its growing tech industry. Paralegals here often work in tech law firms. Companies like Baker & McKenzie and Aon Hewitt offer exciting career paths.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Naperville, IL


  6. Skokie, IL
    Average Salary: $61,116
    Skokie has a mix of corporate and civil litigation firms. Paralegals often assist with case management and research. Firms like Clifford Law Offices and Ankin Law Office provide solid opportunities.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Skokie, IL


  7. Orland Park, IL
    Average Salary: $59,000
    Orland Park offers a community-focused legal environment. Paralegals often work in family law and real estate. Firms like The Law Offices of David A. Noll and Hinshaw & Culbertson are well-regarded.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Orland Park, IL


  8. Crown Point, IN
    Average Salary: $56,870
    Crown Point provides a mix of civil litigation and family law. Paralegals often assist with case preparation and research. Firms like The Law Offices of David A. Noll and Seyfarth Shaw LLP offer good opportunities.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Crown Point, IN


  9. Joliet, IL
    Average Salary: $52,851
    Joliet has a strong legal community with a focus on criminal defense and family law. Paralegals often work in busy court settings. Firms like The Law Office of David A. Noll and Seyfarth Shaw LLP offer dynamic roles.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Joliet, IL


  10. Berwyn, IL
    Average Salary: $49,875
    Berwyn offers a mix of corporate and litigation work. Paralegals often assist with case management and research. Firms like Holland & Knight and DLA Piper provide solid career opportunities.
    Find Paralegal jobs in Berwyn, IL

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

Paralegals in Chicago can find excellent job opportunities with top-paying companies. Latham & Watkins LLP offers the highest average salary at $127,333. Direct Talent Solutions and Benesch Law also provide competitive salaries, making them attractive choices. These firms value skilled paralegals and offer rewarding career paths.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL, highlighting Latham & Watkins LLP with the highest at $127,333 and BJ Services with the lowest at $95,000.

  1. Latham & Watkins LLP
    Average Salary: $127,333
    Latham & Watkins LLP offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This global law firm provides a dynamic work environment. Paralegals work closely with attorneys on various legal matters. The firm's Chicago office is located in the heart of the city.


  2. Direct Talent Solutions
    Average Salary: $118,500
    Direct Talent Solutions offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This company focuses on connecting talent with top employers. Paralegals here assist in legal research and document preparation. The firm operates in multiple locations, including Chicago.


  3. Benesch Law
    Average Salary: $109,500
    Benesch Law offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This boutique law firm provides a supportive environment for Paralegals. They work on a variety of cases, from litigation to corporate law. The firm is based in Chicago.


  4. Mcdermott Will & Emery
    Average Salary: $107,917
    Mcdermott Will & Emery offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This firm is known for its diverse legal practice. Paralegals assist attorneys with case management and research. The Chicago office is a key part of the firm's operations.


  5. Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
    Average Salary: $107,520
    Davis Wright Tremaine LLP offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This firm specializes in various legal areas. Paralegals here support attorneys in litigation and transactional work. The Chicago office is one of many locations.


  6. sas tech
    Average Salary: $107,292
    sas tech offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This company focuses on technology and legal services. Paralegals assist with legal research and document management. The firm operates in several locations, including Chicago.


  7. Bridgeline Solutions
    Average Salary: $105,871
    Bridgeline Solutions offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This firm provides legal and technology services. Paralegals here work on case management and legal research. The Chicago office is part of the company's network.


  8. Wells Fargo
    Average Salary: $100,933
    Wells Fargo offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This financial services company provides a stable environment. Paralegals assist with regulatory compliance and legal documentation. The Chicago office is a key location for the company.


  9. Katten
    Average Salary: $98,333
    Katten offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This firm specializes in various legal services. Paralegals here support attorneys with case preparation and research. The Chicago office is a major part of the company's operations.


  10. BJ Services
    Average Salary: $95,000
    BJ Services offers Paralegal jobs in Chicago, IL. This company focuses on oilfield services. Paralegals assist with legal documentation and compliance. The Chicago office is one of many locations for the company.

Currently 2,341 Paralegal job openings, nationwide.

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