Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Registered Nurse (RN)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) | $74,900 | $56,900 | $97,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $93,100 | $70,800 | $121,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $107,100 | $81,400 | $139,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $128,500 | $97,600 | $167,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $145,600 | $110,700 | $189,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Registered Nurse (RN)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in the Chicago metro is $107,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $81,400 to $139,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $176,800 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Registered Nurse (RN)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 Registered Nurse (RN)s — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Registered Nurse (RN) salary of $107,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Registered Nurse (RN)s in Chicago start around $74,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $128,500 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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