Software Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Software Engineer positions in Chicago. Ranges from $82,000 (entry-level) to $236,000 (senior).
Median (Mid)
$147,000
vs National
+4%
COL Index
115
Senior Max
$236,000
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Minimum | Median | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $82,000 | $100,000 | $121,000 |
| Mid-Level | $121,000 | $147,000 | $173,000 |
| Senior | $168,000 | $200,000 | $236,000 |
About Software Engineer Salaries in Chicago
The median software engineer salary in Chicago is $147,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% 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 software engineers in Chicago can expect to earn between $82,000 and $121,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $236,000.
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.
Software Engineer Salaries in Other Cities
San Francisco
$189,000
Mid-level median
New York
$179,000
Mid-level median
Seattle
$171,000
Mid-level median
Los Angeles
$161,000
Mid-level median
Austin
$143,000
Mid-level median
Denver
$147,000
Mid-level median
Remote (US)
$133,000
Mid-level median
Boston
$165,000
Mid-level median
Washington D.C.
$168,000
Mid-level median
Atlanta
$140,000
Mid-level median
Dallas
$140,000
Mid-level median
Miami
$151,000
Mid-level median
Phoenix
$133,000
Mid-level median
Minneapolis
$143,000
Mid-level median
Raleigh
$137,000
Mid-level median
Other Roles in Chicago
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