Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Accountant / CPAs in Chicago get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Chicago metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $69,500 | $52,700 | $90,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $86,300 | $65,500 | $112,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $99,300 | $75,400 | $129,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $119,100 | $90,400 | $154,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $135,000 | $102,500 | $175,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Accountant / CPAs — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Accountant / CPA salary in the Chicago metro is $99,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $75,400 to $129,000 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $163,800 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Accountant / CPAs. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Chicago vs. national: +13%. That puts Chicago among the stronger US markets for Accountant / CPAs — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Accountant / CPA salary of $99,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Accountant / CPAs in Chicago start around $69,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $119,100 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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