Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Median annual salary $50,390 +2.4% vs national
Median hourly $24.23
10th percentile $37,290
90th percentile $71,660
Employed locally 36,080
National median $49,210

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Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks earn a median annual salary of $50,390, which is slightly higher than the national median of $49,210. This figure translates to an average hourly wage of $24.23. When compared to the local household income in the area, which stands at $88,850, it becomes evident that bookkeeping and related clerical roles contribute a significant portion toward typical family earnings. However, despite earning more than the national median for this occupation, these wages still represent less than 57% of the average local household income, highlighting the disparity between individual professional earnings and broader household financial metrics in this metropolitan region.

    For entry-level bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks in Chicago, IL-IN, salaries tend to be lower, reflecting a starting point near or slightly above the 10th percentile at $37,290 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can earn significantly higher wages, reaching up to the 90th percentile of $71,660 per year. The disparity between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by several factors, including years of experience, job performance, skill specialization, and educational background. As these clerks gain expertise, they may also assume additional responsibilities or move into supervisory roles, which further elevates their earning potential within the field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $37,290
    25th
    $44,550
    50th (median)
    $50,390
    75th
    $60,770
    90th
    $71,660

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks salary vs area income 57% Median Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks salary is 43% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks in Chicago, IL-IN is $24.23, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $35.30 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks salaries?

    The median Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 2.4% above the national median of $49,210. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks in Chicago?

    Entry-level Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks (10th percentile) earn around $37,290 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $44,550.