Correctional Officers and Jailers Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $85,400 +47.3% vs national
Median hourly $41.06
10th percentile $61,690
90th percentile $98,030
Employed locally 4,810
National median $57,970

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Correctional Officers and Jailers
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Chicago, IL-IN
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, the typical correctional officer or jailer earns a median annual salary of $85,400, which equates to about $41.06 per hour. This figure is significantly higher than the national median for this occupation at $57,970. When compared to local household income in the region, with an area median of $88,850, correctional officers and jailers earn slightly less on average than typical households. Despite earning below the median household income, their compensation still positions them favorably within the broader spectrum of regional earnings.

    Entry-level correctional officers and jailers typically start at salaries near the 10th percentile, which is around $61,690 annually. As they gain experience and move into more advanced roles or seniority levels, their earnings can rise to the median level of $85,400, or even exceed it, reaching up to the 75th percentile at approximately $93,850 per year. Those at the top end, near the 90th percentile, may earn about $98,030 annually. The difference in salaries between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as seniority, additional responsibilities, specialized skills, and further education or certifications within the field. These elements collectively contribute to career progression and increased earning potential over time for correctional officers and jailers.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $61,690
    25th
    $68,450
    50th (median)
    $85,400
    75th
    $93,850
    90th
    $98,030

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Correctional Officers and Jailers salary vs area income 96% Median Correctional Officers and Jailers salary is 4% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Correctional Officers and Jailers make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Correctional Officers and Jailers in Chicago, IL-IN is $41.06, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $46.15 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Correctional Officers and Jailers salaries?

    The median Correctional Officers and Jailers salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 47.3% above the national median of $57,970. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Correctional Officers and Jailers in Chicago?

    Entry-level Correctional Officers and Jailers (10th percentile) earn around $61,690 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $68,450.