Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Surgeons 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) | $331,300 | $251,800 | $430,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $411,800 | $313,000 | $535,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $473,400 | $359,800 | $615,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $568,000 | $431,700 | $738,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $643,800 | $489,300 | $836,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Surgeons — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Surgeon salary in the Chicago metro is $473,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $359,800 to $615,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $781,100 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays +4% relative to the Illinois state median for Surgeons. 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 Surgeons — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Surgeon salary of $473,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Surgeons in Chicago start around $331,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $568,000 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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