Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Physician (MD/DO)s 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) | $213,600 | $162,400 | $277,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $265,500 | $201,800 | $345,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $305,200 | $232,000 | $396,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $366,200 | $278,400 | $476,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $415,000 | $315,500 | $539,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Physician (MD/DO)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Physician (MD/DO) salary in the Chicago metro is $305,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $232,000 to $396,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $503,600 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Physician (MD/DO)s. 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 Physician (MD/DO)s — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Physician (MD/DO) salary of $305,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Physician (MD/DO)s in Chicago start around $213,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $366,200 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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