Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Aerospace Engineers 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) | $110,700 | $84,200 | $143,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $137,600 | $104,600 | $178,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $158,200 | $120,300 | $205,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $189,800 | $144,300 | $246,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $215,100 | $163,600 | $279,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Aerospace Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Aerospace Engineer salary in the Chicago metro is $158,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $120,300 to $205,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $261,100 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Aerospace Engineers. 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 Aerospace Engineers — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Aerospace Engineer salary of $158,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Aerospace Engineers in Chicago start around $110,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $189,800 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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