Engineering Manager Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Engineering Manager positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $152,000 (entry-level) to $336,000 (senior). Median: $221,000.
Median (Mid)
$221,000
$106.25/hr
vs National
-2%
US: $226,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$336,000
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) | $152,000 | $176,000 | $205,000 | $84.62/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $189,000 | $221,000 | $257,000 | $106.25/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $236,000 | $284,000 | $336,000 | $136.54/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level engineering manager earning $221,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $192,000 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 Engineering Manager Salaries in Chicago
The median engineering manager salary in Chicago, IL is $221,000 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 engineering managers in Chicago can expect to earn between $152,000 and $205,000 (about $84.62/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $336,000 ($336K annually, or about $161.54/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: Engineering Manager Salary in Chicago
What is the average Engineering Manager salary in Chicago?+
The average Engineering Manager salary in Chicago is $221,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $176,000 and senior-level pay reaches $284,000.
How much does an entry-level engineering manager make in Chicago?+
Entry-level engineering managers in Chicago earn between $152,000 and $205,000, with a median of $176,000 per year (about $84.62/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Engineering Manager in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Engineering Manager in Chicago earns roughly $84.62/hour at entry-level, $106.25/hour at mid-level, and $136.54/hour at senior-level.
Is the Engineering Manager salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Engineering Manager 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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