Technology Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Systems Administrator Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median systems administrator salary in Chicago, IL is $94,987 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median and 12.0% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$94,987
vs State Avg
+$10,177
vs National
+$10,177
Cost of Living
107%

Systems Administrator Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $61,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $140,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$61,600
+$6,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$96,320
+$10,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$140,000
+$15,000 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $58,240
25th Percentile $75,040
Median (50th) $94,987
75th Percentile $120,960
90th Percentile $147,840

Systems Administrator Salary in Other Illinois Cities

How to Become a Systems Administrator in Chicago

Education

Most systems administrator positions require a bachelor's degree. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

LinuxWindows ServerActive DirectoryNetworkingVirtualizationScripting

Job Outlook

Nationally, systems administrator employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.