Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Plumbers 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) | $59,900 | $45,500 | $77,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $74,400 | $56,500 | $96,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $85,600 | $65,000 | $111,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $102,700 | $78,000 | $133,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $116,400 | $88,400 | $151,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Plumbers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Plumber salary in the Chicago metro is $85,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $65,000 to $111,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $141,200 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays -11% relative to the Illinois state median for Plumbers. 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: +18%. That puts Chicago among the stronger US markets for Plumbers — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Plumber salary of $85,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Plumbers in Chicago start around $59,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $102,700 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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