Scientist Scientist Salary in Chicago, IL

Scientist Salary in Chicago, IL

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Scientist make in Chicago, IL?

The average salary for a Scientist is $88,354 per year in Chicago, IL.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $88,354 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $7,363 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $1,699 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, showing an average salary of $42 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

In Chicago, IL, scientists can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for scientists in the area is $88,354. This number can vary based on factors like experience, education, and specific field of study. For example, entry-level scientists may start closer to the lower end of the salary range, while those with more experience or specialized skills may earn towards the higher end.

The salary distribution in Chicago shows a broad range of earnings. Here is a breakdown of the percentage distribution of salaries:

  • 7.70% earn $60,000 or less
  • 28.24% earn between $60,000 and $68,159
  • 14.12% earn between $68,159 and $76,318
  • 11.55% earn between $76,318 and $84,477
  • 10.27% earn between $84,477 and $92,636
  • 1.28% earn between $92,636 and $100,795
  • 10.27% earn between $100,795 and $108,955
  • 6.42% earn between $108,955 and $117,114
  • 1.28% earn between $117,114 and $125,273
  • 2.57% earn between $125,273 and $133,432
  • 1.28% earn $133,432 or more
This range provides a clear picture of the earning potential for scientists in Chicago, IL.

Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL
View all Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL

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

Scientists in the Chicago area have many job options. Des Plaines, IL, offers the highest average salary of $92,239. Joliet, IL, and Rockford, IL, follow closely with averages around $69,521 and $67,913. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those looking to earn a good salary in science fields. Exploring other nearby cities shows good potential as well. Evanston, IL, provides an average salary of $66,999, while Waukegan, IL, offers $66,900. Aurora, IL, and Schaumburg, IL, also have competitive salaries at $66,160 and $59,167. Scientists can find rewarding positions with solid compensation throughout these areas.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Scientist jobs near Chicago, IL, highlighting Des Plaines, IL with the highest at $92,239 and Schaumburg, IL with the lowest at $59,167.

  1. Des Plaines, IL
    Average Salary: $92,239
    In Des Plaines, a thriving hub for research, companies like Baxter International offer exciting opportunities. Professionals can work on innovative projects that impact global health. A vibrant community and excellent public transportation make it a great place to live and work.
    Find Scientist jobs in Des Plaines, IL


  2. Joliet, IL
    Average Salary: $69,521
    Joliet provides a unique mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. Companies such as Exide Technologies offer roles that combine creativity with scientific challenges. The area's growing tech scene and supportive community add to the appeal for those in the field.
    Find Scientist jobs in Joliet, IL


  3. Rockford, IL
    Average Salary: $67,913
    Rockford is known for its strong manufacturing base and emerging tech sector. Companies like Belden offer roles that blend traditional science with cutting-edge technology. The city's welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural events make it an attractive location for scientists.
    Find Scientist jobs in Rockford, IL


  4. Evanston, IL
    Average Salary: $66,999
    Evanston is home to Northwestern University, offering numerous research opportunities. Professionals can work alongside top academics and contribute to groundbreaking studies. The city's vibrant community and proximity to Chicago provide a dynamic work environment.
    Find Scientist jobs in Evanston, IL


  5. Waukegan, IL
    Average Salary: $66,900
    Waukegan has a growing focus on science and technology, with companies like GE Healthcare hiring for various roles. The city's scenic waterfront and family-friendly neighborhoods make it a desirable place to live and work.
    Find Scientist jobs in Waukegan, IL


  6. Aurora, IL
    Average Salary: $66,160
    Aurora offers a diverse range of opportunities in science and technology. Companies like Abbott Laboratories provide roles that involve innovative research and development. The city's growing tech sector and accessible public transport make it an attractive location.
    Find Scientist jobs in Aurora, IL


  7. Schaumburg, IL
    Average Salary: $59,167
    Schaumburg is a leader in the tech and biotech industries. Companies such as Baxter International offer dynamic roles in research and development. The city's suburban charm and excellent schools make it a great place for families and professionals alike.
    Find Scientist jobs in Schaumburg, IL

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

GE Healthcare offers scientists among the highest salaries in Chicago. On average, scientists there earn about $122,000 a year. Northwestern Medicine also provides a competitive salary, averaging around $77,263 annually. Kindbody and Newly Weds Foods offer solid compensation, with average salaries of $66,900 and $76,167, respectively. Momentum Staffing Group rounds out the list with an average salary of $82,500. These companies provide excellent opportunities for skilled scientists.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Scientist jobs in Chicago, IL, highlighting GE Healthcare with the highest at $122,000 and Kindbody with the lowest at $66,900.

  1. GE Healthcare
    Average Salary: $122,000
    GE Healthcare, a world leader in medical technology, offers many Scientist positions. These roles often focus on research and development. GE Healthcare operates in locations like Chicago, Illinois, where they bring their advanced medical innovations to life.


  2. Momentum Staffing Group
    Average Salary: $82,500
    Momentum Staffing Group is known for placing skilled professionals in various fields. They have multiple Scientist openings that often involve cutting-edge research. They have their base in Chicago, Illinois, where they provide exciting opportunities for career growth.


  3. Northwestern Medicine
    Average Salary: $77,263
    Northwestern Medicine is a leading health system in Chicago, Illinois. They offer many Scientist jobs that focus on medical research and patient care. Working here means being part of a team that makes a real difference in people's lives.


  4. Newly Weds Foods
    Average Salary: $76,167
    Newly Weds Foods is a well-known company based in Chicago, Illinois. They provide several Scientist positions that involve research and quality control. Joining them means contributing to high-quality food production and safety.


  5. Kindbody
    Average Salary: $66,900
    Kindbody is a fertility and women's health company based in Chicago, Illinois. They offer Scientist jobs that focus on reproductive health research. These roles are crucial for advancing medical knowledge and supporting families.

Currently 863 Scientist job openings, nationwide.

View Scientist Jobs in Chicago, IL

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