Nuclear Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median nuclear engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $128,807 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Nuclear Engineer Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median nuclear engineer salary of $128,807, which is $14,446 above the Illinois state average of $114,361. Compared to the national median of $120,380, 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 nuclear engineers in Chicago spans from $81,320 at the 10th percentile to $190,460 at the 90th percentile — a $109,140 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,460, while senior nuclear engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $184,040. 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.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $83,460, while experienced professionals earn up to $184,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,720 |
| Median (50th) | $128,807 |
| 75th Percentile | $158,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $190,460 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Chicago
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Chicago
Browse open nuclear engineer positions in Chicago, IL: