Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Data 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) | $84,700 | $64,300 | $110,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $105,300 | $80,000 | $136,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $121,100 | $92,000 | $157,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $145,300 | $110,400 | $188,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $164,600 | $125,100 | $214,000 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Analysts — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Data Analyst salary in the Chicago metro is $121,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $92,000 to $157,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $199,800 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Data 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 Data Analysts — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Data Analyst salary of $121,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Analysts in Chicago start around $84,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $145,300 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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