Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Administrative Assistants 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) | $38,900 | $29,600 | $50,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $48,400 | $36,800 | $62,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $55,700 | $42,300 | $72,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $66,800 | $50,700 | $86,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $75,700 | $57,500 | $98,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Administrative Assistants — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Administrative Assistant salary in the Chicago metro is $55,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $42,300 to $72,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $91,900 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Administrative Assistants. 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 Administrative Assistants — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Administrative Assistant salary of $55,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Administrative Assistants in Chicago start around $38,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $66,800 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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