Automotive & Maintenance Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median diesel mechanic salary in Chicago, IL is $59,278 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$59,278
vs State Avg
+$6,648
vs National
+$3,878
Cost of Living
107%

Diesel Mechanic Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)

Chicago offers a median diesel mechanic salary of $59,278, which is $6,648 above the Illinois state average of $52,630. Compared to the national median of $55,400, 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 diesel mechanics in Chicago spans from $37,450 at the 10th percentile to $87,740 at the 90th percentile — a $50,290 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $39,590, while senior diesel mechanics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,460. 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.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $39,590, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,460 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,590
+$2,590 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,920
+$3,920 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$83,460
+$5,460 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $37,450
25th Percentile $46,010
Median (50th) $59,278
75th Percentile $73,830
90th Percentile $87,740

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$59,832
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$52,630
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$47,090
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$45,428
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Chicago

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Diesel EnginesHydraulic SystemsElectrical DiagnosticsPreventive MaintenanceCDL KnowledgeWelding

Job Outlook

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Find Diesel Mechanic Jobs in Chicago

Browse open diesel mechanic positions in Chicago, IL:

Indeed → LinkedIn → ZipRecruiter → Glassdoor →

Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Chicago

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Chicago, IL? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Chicago, Illinois is $59,278 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $37,450 (10th percentile) to $87,740 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Chicago? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $59,278, a diesel mechanic in Chicago earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
How does Chicago compare to the Illinois state average for diesel mechanic pay? ▼
Chicago's median diesel mechanic salary of $59,278 is 12.6% above the Illinois state average of $52,630. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
What is the cost of living in Chicago, IL? ▼
Chicago has a cost of living index of 107% compared to the national average. This means a diesel mechanic salary of $59,278 in Chicago has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.
What qualifications do I need to become a diesel mechanic in Chicago? ▼
Most diesel mechanic positions in Chicago require a high school diploma. Key skills include Diesel Engines, Hydraulic Systems, Electrical Diagnostics, Preventive Maintenance. The job market is projected to grow 5% nationally over the next decade.