Hospitality & Tourism Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Sommelier Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median sommelier salary in Chicago, IL is $66,340 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$66,340
vs State Avg
+$7,440
vs National
+$4,340
Cost of Living
107%

Sommelier Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level sommelier earns around $37,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $126,260 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,450
+$2,450 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$69,550
+$4,550 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$126,260
+$8,260 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $34,240
25th Percentile $47,080
Median (50th) $66,340
75th Percentile $98,440
90th Percentile $133,750

Sommelier Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$66,960
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$58,900
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$52,700
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$50,840
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Sommelier in Chicago

Education

Most sommelier positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wine KnowledgeTastingFood PairingInventory ManagementCustomer ServiceSommelier Certification

Job Outlook

Nationally, sommelier employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.