Technology Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Game Developer Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median game developer salary in Chicago, IL is $95,200 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median and 12.0% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$95,200
vs State Avg
+$10,200
vs National
+$10,200
Cost of Living
107%

Game Developer Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level game developer earns around $56,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$56,000
+$6,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$97,440
+$10,440 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$165,760
+$17,760 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $53,760
25th Percentile $72,800
Median (50th) $95,200
75th Percentile $134,400
90th Percentile $173,600

Game Developer Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$96,050
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$85,000
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$76,500
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$73,950
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Game Developer in Chicago

Education

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

Key Skills

C++Unity/Unreal3D MathGame PhysicsGPU ProgrammingVersion Control

Job Outlook

Nationally, game developer employment is projected to grow 10% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.