Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Financial 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) | $88,900 | $67,600 | $115,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $110,500 | $84,000 | $143,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $127,100 | $96,600 | $165,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $152,500 | $115,900 | $198,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $172,800 | $131,300 | $224,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Financial Analysts — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Financial Analyst salary in the Chicago metro is $127,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $96,600 to $165,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $209,700 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Financial 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 Financial Analysts — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Financial Analyst salary of $127,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Financial Analysts in Chicago start around $88,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $152,500 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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