Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Chemical 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) | $99,000 | $75,200 | $128,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $123,100 | $93,500 | $159,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $141,500 | $107,500 | $183,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $169,800 | $129,000 | $220,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $192,400 | $146,200 | $250,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Chemical Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in the Chicago metro is $141,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $107,500 to $183,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $233,400 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Chemical 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 Chemical Engineers — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Chemical Engineer salary of $141,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chemical Engineers in Chicago start around $99,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $169,800 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.
Get my personal salary report →