Physician Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Physician positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $189,000 (entry-level) to $473,000 (senior). Median: $289,000.
Median (Mid)
$289,000
$138.94/hr
vs National
+2%
US: $284,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$473,000
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) | $189,000 | $221,000 | $257,000 | $106.25/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $242,000 | $289,000 | $347,000 | $138.94/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $305,000 | $378,000 | $473,000 | $181.73/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level physician earning $289,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $251,000 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 Physician Salaries in Chicago
The median physician salary in Chicago, IL is $289,000 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 physicians in Chicago can expect to earn between $189,000 and $257,000 (about $106.25/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $473,000 ($473K annually, or about $227.4/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: Physician Salary in Chicago
What is the average Physician salary in Chicago?+
The average Physician salary in Chicago is $289,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $221,000 and senior-level pay reaches $378,000.
How much does an entry-level physician make in Chicago?+
Entry-level physicians in Chicago earn between $189,000 and $257,000, with a median of $221,000 per year (about $106.25/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Physician in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Physician in Chicago earns roughly $106.25/hour at entry-level, $138.94/hour at mid-level, and $181.73/hour at senior-level.
Is the Physician salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Yes — Physician salaries in Chicago are about 2% higher than the US national median of $284,000.
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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