Business & Finance Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Paralegal Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median paralegal salary in Chicago, IL is $66,896 per year, which is 13.0% above the national median and 11.9% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$66,896
vs State Avg
+$7,104
vs National
+$7,696
Cost of Living
107%

Paralegal Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level paralegal earns around $45,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,050 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$45,200
+$5,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$67,800
+$7,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$96,050
+$11,050 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $43,392
25th Percentile $52,884
Median (50th) $66,896
75th Percentile $84,750
90th Percentile $104,412

Paralegal Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$67,488
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$59,792
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$53,872
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$52,096
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Paralegal in Chicago

Education

Most paralegal positions require a associate's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Legal ResearchDocument DraftingCase ManagementWestlaw/LexisNexisAttention to DetailCommunication

Job Outlook

Nationally, paralegal 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.