Research Assistant Research Assistant Salary in Chicago, IL

Research Assistant Salary in Chicago, IL

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Research Assistant make in Chicago, IL?

The average salary for a Research Assistant is $44,028 per year in Chicago, IL.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $44,028 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $3,669 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $847 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $21 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

A Research Assistant in Chicago, IL, can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $44,028. This means someone in this role can look forward to a steady income. Salaries can range from $32,400 to $70,000 or more, depending on experience and industry.


Factors affecting salary include education, years of experience, and the specific field of research. Research Assistants in certain industries, like healthcare and pharmaceuticals, often earn higher salaries. Those with advanced degrees or specialized skills may also earn more. Job seekers should consider these factors when aiming for a position in this field.

Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL
View all Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL

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

Aurora, IL, offers one of the highest salaries for Research Assistants near Chicago, with an average of $50,000. Skokie, IL, closely follows with an average salary of $45,700. Evanston, IL, also provides attractive compensation, averaging around $44,765. These cities present excellent opportunities for professionals in the research field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Research Assistant jobs near Chicago, IL, highlighting Aurora, IL with the highest at $50,000 and Evanston, IL with the lowest at $44,765.

  1. Aurora, IL
    Average Salary: $50,000
    In Aurora, a Research Assistant position provides a chance to work with local universities and healthcare institutions. Aurora University and Rush University Medical Center are key places. These roles often involve collecting data and supporting studies. This city offers a blend of academic and practical research opportunities.
    Find Research Assistant jobs in Aurora, IL


  2. Skokie, IL
    Average Salary: $45,700
    Skokie features a vibrant community for research roles. Here, a Research Assistant often collaborates with non-profits and tech companies. Skokie's environment encourages innovation and teamwork. Positions may focus on social sciences or community health projects, offering valuable experience.
    Find Research Assistant jobs in Skokie, IL


  3. Evanston, IL
    Average Salary: $44,765
    Evanston's Research Assistant jobs often involve work with Northwestern University and local research firms. Evanston's academic setting provides a rich environment for learning and growth. Assistants here may engage in a variety of projects, from environmental studies to policy research.
    Find Research Assistant jobs in Evanston, IL

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

For research assistant positions in Chicago, IL, the University of Illinois offers one of the highest salaries at around $57,835 annually. The Shirley Ryan Ability Lab and The University of Chicago also provide competitive salaries, with averages around $53,000 and $47,000, respectively. These institutions present excellent opportunities for job seekers looking to leverage their skills in a high-paying environment.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Research Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, highlighting University of Illinois with the highest at $57,835 and DePaul University with the lowest at $34,753.

  1. University of Illinois
    Average Salary: $57,835
    The University of Illinois offers many Research Assistant positions, particularly in the College of Medicine. These roles are based in Chicago and focus on a variety of research areas. Positions often involve supporting faculty and graduate students on projects.


  2. Shirley Ryan Ability Lab
    Average Salary: $52,990
    The Shirley Ryan Ability Lab is known for its rehabilitation research. Research Assistants here work on improving patient care through scientific research. Locations include the main facility in Chicago.


  3. The University of Chicago
    Average Salary: $46,933
    The University of Chicago hires Research Assistants across different departments. These roles involve assisting in research projects in various fields. The university is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago.


  4. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
    Average Salary: $46,273
    This hospital often has Research Assistant positions available. These roles focus on pediatric research and improving child health. The hospital is a leading pediatric care and research facility in Chicago.


  5. Rush University Medical Center
    Average Salary: $44,593
    Rush University Medical Center provides numerous opportunities for Research Assistants. They work on cutting-edge medical research projects. The center is located on the Near West Side of Chicago.


  6. The Field Museum
    Average Salary: $43,457
    The Field Museum offers Research Assistant roles related to natural history and anthropology. These positions focus on supporting ongoing research and exhibitions. The museum is a prominent attraction on Chicago's Near North Side.


  7. Northwestern University
    Average Salary: $40,155
    Northwestern University hires Research Assistants for various research projects. These roles span multiple departments and fields of study. The university is located in Evanston, just north of Chicago.


  8. Loyola University Chicago
    Average Salary: $39,613
    Loyola University Chicago offers Research Assistant positions across different disciplines. These roles involve supporting research initiatives at the university. The main campus is located in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago.


  9. Metropolitan Planning Council
    Average Salary: $36,000
    The Metropolitan Planning Council has Research Assistant positions focused on urban planning and policy research. These roles contribute to improving the quality of life in the Chicago area.


  10. DePaul University
    Average Salary: $34,753
    DePaul University offers Research Assistant positions across multiple departments. These roles support various research initiatives at the university. The main campus is in downtown Chicago.

Currently 853 Research Assistant job openings, nationwide.

View Research Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

How's the job market for a Research Assistant in the US?

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