Chief Executives Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $344,960 +67.1% vs national
Median hourly $165.85
10th percentile $142,940
90th percentile $599,520
Employed locally 3,610
National median $206,420

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    In Chicago and its surrounding areas in Illinois and Indiana, Chief Executives earn a median annual salary of $344,960, which significantly exceeds the local area's median household income of $88,850. This disparity underscores the lucrative nature of executive roles compared to typical household earnings within the region. The substantial difference between chief executives' salaries and local household incomes highlights the economic gap that exists in professional hierarchies. Nationally, Chief Executives earn a median salary of $206,420, indicating that those in Chicago command a higher compensation package than their counterparts across the United States.

    Entry-level Chief Executives in this region start at around the 10th percentile with an annual salary of approximately $142,940, while more experienced executives can reach earnings as high as $599,520 at the 90th percentile. This considerable variation is driven by factors such as industry demand, company size, and individual performance metrics. The progression from entry-level to top-tier executive positions reflects a significant increase in responsibilities and expectations, justifying the substantial pay differential. Experience, coupled with proven leadership capabilities and strategic acumen, are key drivers for these salary increases within the executive landscape.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $142,940
    25th
    $197,530
    50th (median)
    $344,960
    75th
    $428,710
    90th
    $599,520

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Chief Executives salary vs area income 388% Median Chief Executives salary is 288% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Chief Executives make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Chief Executives in Chicago, IL-IN is $165.85, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $288.23 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Chief Executives salaries?

    The median Chief Executives salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 67.1% above the national median of $206,420. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Chief Executives in Chicago?

    Entry-level Chief Executives (10th percentile) earn around $142,940 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $197,530.