Editor Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median editor salary in Chicago, IL is $78,196 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Editor Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median editor salary of $78,196, which is $8,770 above the Illinois state average of $69,426. Compared to the national median of $73,080, 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 editors in Chicago spans from $42,800 at the 10th percentile to $141,240 at the 90th percentile — a $98,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,940, while senior editors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $133,750. 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.
Editor Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level editor earns around $44,940, while experienced professionals earn up to $133,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,710 |
| Median (50th) | $78,196 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $141,240 |
Editor Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Editor in Chicago
Education
Most editor positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, editor employment is projected to grow -5% over the next decade (decline). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Editor Jobs in Chicago
Browse open editor positions in Chicago, IL: