Accountant Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Accountant positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $53,000 (entry-level) to $137,000 (senior). Median: $82,000.
Median (Mid)
$82,000
$39.42/hr
vs National
-5%
US: $86,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$137,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $53,000 | $61,000 | $74,000 | $29.33/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $68,000 | $82,000 | $100,000 | $39.42/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $95,000 | $113,000 | $137,000 | $54.33/hr |
Got an offer? Don't leave money on the table.
Practice negotiating this salaryWhat Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level accountant earning $82,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $71,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 115).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Accountant Salaries in Chicago
Manage financial records, prepare tax returns, conduct audits, and ensure regulatory compliance. This page covers accountant compensation specifically in Chicago, IL.
The median accountant salary in Chicago, IL is $82,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 115 (national average = 100), Chicago offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level accountants in Chicago can expect to earn between $53,000 and $74,000 (about $29.33/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $137,000 ($137K annually, or about $65.87/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions: Accountant Salary in Chicago
What is the average Accountant salary in Chicago?+
The average Accountant salary in Chicago is $82,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $61,000 and senior-level pay reaches $113,000.
How much does an entry-level accountant make in Chicago?+
Entry-level accountants in Chicago earn between $53,000 and $74,000, with a median of $61,000 per year (about $29.33/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Accountant in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Accountant in Chicago earns roughly $29.33/hour at entry-level, $39.42/hour at mid-level, and $54.33/hour at senior-level.
Is the Accountant salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Accountant salaries in Chicago are about 5% below the US national median. The lower cost of living often makes take-home buying power competitive.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
Negotiating a Accountant offer in Chicago?
Stop guessing. Get personalized scripts, market insights, and expert tactics for your specific situation using our free AI negotiation coach.
Accountant Salaries in Other Cities
Other Roles in Chicago
Know Your Worth as a Accountant in Chicago
You now have the data. Use our free AI negotiation coach to turn it into a strategy — get scripts, market context, and expert tactics for your specific situation.
Free · No signup · Instant answers