Agriculture & Environment Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Zoologist Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median zoologist salary in Chicago, IL is $73,006 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$73,006
vs State Avg
+$8,187
vs National
+$4,776
Cost of Living
107%

Zoologist Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level zoologist earns around $48,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,350 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$48,150
+$3,150 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$74,900
+$4,900 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$112,350
+$7,350 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $44,940
25th Percentile $57,780
Median (50th) $73,006
75th Percentile $96,300
90th Percentile $119,840

Zoologist Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$73,688
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$64,819
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$57,996
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$55,949
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Zoologist in Chicago

Education

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

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook

Nationally, zoologist 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.