Industrial Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median industrial engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $101,971 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Industrial Engineer Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median industrial engineer salary of $101,971, which is $11,436 above the Illinois state average of $90,535. Compared to the national median of $95,300, 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 industrial engineers in Chicago spans from $65,270 at the 10th percentile to $158,360 at the 90th percentile — a $93,090 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $68,480, while senior industrial engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $151,940. 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.
Industrial Engineer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level industrial engineer earns around $68,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $151,940 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,270 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,320 |
| Median (50th) | $101,971 |
| 75th Percentile | $128,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $158,360 |
Industrial Engineer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Industrial Engineer in Chicago
Education
Most industrial engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, industrial engineer employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Industrial Engineer Jobs in Chicago
Browse open industrial engineer positions in Chicago, IL: