Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $68,000 | $80,000 | $95,000 | $38.46/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $100,000 | $121,000 | $142,000 | $58.17/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $147,000 | $176,000 | $210,000 | $84.62/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level actuary earning $121,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $105,000 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 Actuary Salaries in Chicago
The median actuary salary in Chicago, IL is $121,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% 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 actuarys in Chicago can expect to earn between $68,000 and $95,000 (about $38.46/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $210,000 ($210K annually, or about $100.96/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: Actuary Salary in Chicago
What is the average Actuary salary in Chicago?+
The average Actuary salary in Chicago is $121,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $80,000 and senior-level pay reaches $176,000.
How much does an entry-level actuary make in Chicago?+
Entry-level actuarys in Chicago earn between $68,000 and $95,000, with a median of $80,000 per year (about $38.46/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Actuary in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Actuary in Chicago earns roughly $38.46/hour at entry-level, $58.17/hour at mid-level, and $84.62/hour at senior-level.
Is the Actuary salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Actuary salaries in Chicago are about 2% 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.
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