Business & Finance Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Accountant Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median accountant salary in Chicago, IL is $90,264 per year, which is 13.0% above the national median and 11.9% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$90,264
vs State Avg
+$9,585
vs National
+$10,384
Cost of Living
107%

Accountant Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level accountant earns around $58,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $135,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$58,760
+$6,760 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$90,400
+$10,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$135,600
+$15,600 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $56,952
25th Percentile $70,851
Median (50th) $90,264
75th Percentile $115,712
90th Percentile $150,064

Accountant Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$91,063
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$80,679
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$72,691
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$70,294
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Accountant in Chicago

Education

Most accountant positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

GAAPTax PreparationFinancial AnalysisQuickBooksExcelAuditing

Job Outlook

Nationally, accountant employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.