Instructional Designer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median instructional designer salary in Chicago, IL is $77,040 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Instructional Designer Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median instructional designer salary of $77,040, which is $8,640 above the Illinois state average of $68,400. Compared to the national median of $72,000, 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 instructional designers in Chicago spans from $47,080 at the 10th percentile to $126,260 at the 90th percentile — a $79,180 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,220, while senior instructional designers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $119,840. 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.
Instructional Designer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level instructional designer earns around $49,220, while experienced professionals earn up to $119,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,920 |
| Median (50th) | $77,040 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,650 |
| 90th Percentile | $126,260 |
Instructional Designer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Instructional Designer in Chicago
Education
Most instructional designer positions require a master's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, instructional designer 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 Instructional Designer Jobs in Chicago
Browse open instructional designer positions in Chicago, IL: