Electrical Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Electrical Engineer positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $74,000 (entry-level) to $184,000 (senior). Median: $113,000.
Median (Mid)
$113,000
$54.33/hr
vs National
+0%
US: $113,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$184,000
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) | $74,000 | $84,000 | $97,000 | $40.38/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $95,000 | $113,000 | $137,000 | $54.33/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $131,000 | $155,000 | $184,000 | $74.52/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level electrical engineer earning $113,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $98,000 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 Electrical Engineer Salaries in Chicago
The median electrical engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $113,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% 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 electrical engineers in Chicago can expect to earn between $74,000 and $97,000 (about $40.38/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $184,000 ($184K annually, or about $88.46/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: Electrical Engineer Salary in Chicago
What is the average Electrical Engineer salary in Chicago?+
The average Electrical Engineer salary in Chicago is $113,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $84,000 and senior-level pay reaches $155,000.
How much does an entry-level electrical engineer make in Chicago?+
Entry-level electrical engineers in Chicago earn between $74,000 and $97,000, with a median of $84,000 per year (about $40.38/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Electrical Engineer in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Electrical Engineer in Chicago earns roughly $40.38/hour at entry-level, $54.33/hour at mid-level, and $74.52/hour at senior-level.
Is the Electrical Engineer salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Yes — Electrical Engineer salaries in Chicago are about 0% higher than the US national median of $113,000.
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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