Chemical Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median chemical engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $113,698 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median chemical engineer salary of $113,698, which is $12,751 above the Illinois state average of $100,947. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Chicago pays above average for this role.
Chicago's cost of living is 107% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Chicago spans from $72,760 at the 10th percentile to $184,040 at the 90th percentile — a $111,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $74,900, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $173,340. As a major metro area with a population of 2,693,976, Chicago typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $74,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $173,340 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,880 |
| Median (50th) | $113,698 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,660 |
| 90th Percentile | $184,040 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Chicago
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Chicago
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Chicago, IL: