Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Industrial 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) | $82,200 | $62,500 | $106,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $102,200 | $77,600 | $132,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $117,500 | $89,300 | $152,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $141,000 | $107,100 | $183,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $159,800 | $121,400 | $207,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Industrial Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Industrial Engineer salary in the Chicago metro is $117,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $89,300 to $152,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $193,800 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Industrial 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 Industrial Engineers — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Industrial Engineer salary of $117,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Industrial Engineers in Chicago start around $82,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $141,000 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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