Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median sheet metal worker salary in Chicago, IL is $59,225 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Sheet Metal Worker Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median sheet metal worker salary of $59,225, which is $6,642 above the Illinois state average of $52,583. Compared to the national median of $55,350, 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 sheet metal workers in Chicago spans from $36,380 at the 10th percentile to $92,020 at the 90th percentile — a $55,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,520, while senior sheet metal workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $87,740. 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.
Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level sheet metal worker earns around $38,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,740 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,380 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,940 |
| Median (50th) | $59,225 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,020 |
Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Chicago
Education
Most sheet metal worker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Sheet Metal Worker Jobs in Chicago
Browse open sheet metal worker positions in Chicago, IL: