Software Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median software engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $139,104 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median and 12.0% above the Illinois state average.
Software Engineer Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level software engineer earns around $87,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $207,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $83,552 |
| 25th Percentile | $109,984 |
| Median (50th) | $139,104 |
| 75th Percentile | $177,184 |
| 90th Percentile | $222,410 |
Software Engineer Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Software Engineer in Chicago
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.