Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Financial Advisors 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) | $83,000 | $63,100 | $107,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $103,100 | $78,400 | $134,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $118,600 | $90,200 | $154,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $142,300 | $108,200 | $185,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $161,200 | $122,600 | $209,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Financial Advisors — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Financial Advisor salary in the Chicago metro is $118,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $90,200 to $154,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $195,700 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Financial Advisors. 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 Financial Advisors — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Financial Advisor salary of $118,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Financial Advisors in Chicago start around $83,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $142,300 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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