Judge Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median judge salary in Chicago, IL is $158,392 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Judge Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median judge salary of $158,392, which is $17,763 above the Illinois state average of $140,629. Compared to the national median of $148,030, 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 judges in Chicago spans from $62,060 at the 10th percentile to $246,100 at the 90th percentile — a $184,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $69,550, while senior judges with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $230,050. 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.
Judge Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level judge earns around $69,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $230,050 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $62,060 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,300 |
| Median (50th) | $158,392 |
| 75th Percentile | $208,650 |
| 90th Percentile | $246,100 |
Judge Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Judge in Chicago
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Judge Jobs in Chicago
Browse open judge positions in Chicago, IL: