Social Worker Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Social Worker positions in Chicago. Ranges from $42,000 (entry-level) to $92,000 (senior).
Median (Mid)
$61,000
vs National
+5%
COL Index
115
Senior Max
$92,000
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Minimum | Median | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $42,000 | $48,000 | $55,000 |
| Mid-Level | $53,000 | $61,000 | $71,000 |
| Senior | $68,000 | $79,000 | $92,000 |
About Social Worker Salaries in Chicago
The median social worker salary in Chicago is $61,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 5% 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 social workers in Chicago can expect to earn between $42,000 and $55,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $92,000.
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.
Social Worker Salaries in Other Cities
San Francisco
$78,000
Mid-level median
New York
$74,000
Mid-level median
Seattle
$71,000
Mid-level median
Los Angeles
$67,000
Mid-level median
Austin
$59,000
Mid-level median
Denver
$61,000
Mid-level median
Remote (US)
$55,000
Mid-level median
Boston
$68,000
Mid-level median
Washington D.C.
$70,000
Mid-level median
Atlanta
$58,000
Mid-level median
Dallas
$58,000
Mid-level median
Miami
$63,000
Mid-level median
Phoenix
$55,000
Mid-level median
Minneapolis
$59,000
Mid-level median
Raleigh
$57,000
Mid-level median
Other Roles in Chicago
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