Engineering Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median mechanical engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $103,052 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$103,052
vs State Avg
+$11,557
vs National
+$6,742
Cost of Living
107%

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $69,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $147,660 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$69,550
+$4,550 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$102,720
+$6,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$147,660
+$9,660 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $67,838
25th Percentile $84,316
Median (50th) $103,052
75th Percentile $127,972
90th Percentile $156,434

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other Illinois Cities

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Chicago

Education

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

Key Skills

SolidWorks/CADThermodynamicsFEAManufacturingMaterials SciencePE License

Job Outlook

Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.