Data Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Data Engineer positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $84,000 (entry-level) to $221,000 (senior). Median: $145,000.
Median (Mid)
$145,000
$69.71/hr
vs National
+2%
US: $142,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$221,000
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) | $84,000 | $103,000 | $126,000 | $49.52/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $121,000 | $145,000 | $168,000 | $69.71/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $158,000 | $187,000 | $221,000 | $89.9/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level data engineer earning $145,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $126,000 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 Data Engineer Salaries in Chicago
The median data engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $145,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 2% above 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 data engineers in Chicago can expect to earn between $84,000 and $126,000 (about $49.52/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $221,000 ($221K annually, or about $106.25/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: Data Engineer Salary in Chicago
What is the average Data Engineer salary in Chicago?+
The average Data Engineer salary in Chicago is $145,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $103,000 and senior-level pay reaches $187,000.
How much does an entry-level data engineer make in Chicago?+
Entry-level data engineers in Chicago earn between $84,000 and $126,000, with a median of $103,000 per year (about $49.52/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Engineer in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Engineer in Chicago earns roughly $49.52/hour at entry-level, $69.71/hour at mid-level, and $89.9/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Engineer salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Engineer salaries in Chicago are about 2% higher than the US national median of $142,000.
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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