Security Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Security Engineer positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $92,000 (entry-level) to $252,000 (senior). Median: $155,000.
Median (Mid)
$155,000
$74.52/hr
vs National
-2%
US: $158,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$252,000
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) | $92,000 | $110,000 | $131,000 | $52.88/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $131,000 | $155,000 | $184,000 | $74.52/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $179,000 | $210,000 | $252,000 | $100.96/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level security engineer earning $155,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $135,000 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 Security Engineer Salaries in Chicago
The median security engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $155,000 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 security engineers in Chicago can expect to earn between $92,000 and $131,000 (about $52.88/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $252,000 ($252K annually, or about $121.15/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: Security Engineer Salary in Chicago
What is the average Security Engineer salary in Chicago?+
The average Security Engineer salary in Chicago is $155,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $110,000 and senior-level pay reaches $210,000.
How much does an entry-level security engineer make in Chicago?+
Entry-level security engineers in Chicago earn between $92,000 and $131,000, with a median of $110,000 per year (about $52.88/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Security Engineer in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Security Engineer in Chicago earns roughly $52.88/hour at entry-level, $74.52/hour at mid-level, and $100.96/hour at senior-level.
Is the Security Engineer salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Security Engineer 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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