Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Business Analysts 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) | $79,700 | $60,600 | $103,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $99,000 | $75,300 | $128,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $113,900 | $86,600 | $148,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $136,600 | $103,900 | $177,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $154,900 | $117,700 | $201,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Business Analysts — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Business Analyst salary in the Chicago metro is $113,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $86,600 to $148,100 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $187,900 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Business Analysts. 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 Business Analysts — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Business Analyst salary of $113,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Business Analysts in Chicago start around $79,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $136,600 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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