Photographer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median photographer salary in Chicago, IL is $43,014 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Photographer Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median photographer salary of $43,014, which is $4,824 above the Illinois state average of $38,190. Compared to the national median of $40,200, 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 photographers in Chicago spans from $25,680 at the 10th percentile to $87,740 at the 90th percentile — a $62,060 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,820, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $80,250. 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.
Photographer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level photographer earns around $27,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,680 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,100 |
| Median (50th) | $43,014 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,060 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,740 |
Photographer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Chicago
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, photographer 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 Photographer Jobs in Chicago
Browse open photographer positions in Chicago, IL: