Civil Engineers Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

In Chicago, IL-IN, civil engineers earn a median annual salary of $100,280, which slightly exceeds the national median of $99,590 for this occupation. This figure represents what a typical civil engineer in the area earns annually and reflects an hourly rate of approximately $48.21. Compared to the local household income, which stands at an area median of $88,850, civil engineers earn significantly more than the average household. Specifically, their earnings are about 12.7% higher than the median household income, indicating that civil engineering is a profession offering above-average financial remuneration relative to other local jobs.

The salary structure for civil engineers in Chicago reveals notable differences between entry-level and experienced workers. At the lower end of the spectrum, an individual at the 10th percentile earns $73,090 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn approximately $81,400. As experience increases, earnings rise substantially; individuals at the 75th percentile earn around $129,060, and those in the top 10% command salaries as high as $160,840. This significant salary variance is driven by factors such as years of professional experience, level of education, specialization within civil engineering, and the demand for skilled professionals. Experienced workers often have enhanced skills, broader knowledge, and greater responsibility, justifying their higher compensation compared to entry-level engineers who are still developing these competencies.