Education Teachers, Postsecondary Salary in Chicago, IL-IN
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
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In Chicago, IL-IN, education teachers at the postsecondary level earn a median annual salary of $60,590, which is notably lower than the national median for this occupation of $72,090. This discrepancy highlights regional cost-of-living and demand variations affecting local earnings. When compared to the area's median household income of $88,850, these teachers' salaries represent approximately 68% of the typical household income in the region. Given that Chicago has a local unemployment rate of 5.10%, the earning potential for educators might be influenced by both job availability and broader economic conditions.
For postsecondary education teachers entering the workforce in this area, starting salaries can range as low as $36,710 at the 10th percentile, reflecting initial positions or those with less specialized experience. Conversely, experienced workers within the top 25% of earners receive around $82,420 annually, with some reaching up to $99,660 at the 90th percentile due to factors such as advanced degrees, tenure, institutional prestige, and specialization in high-demand fields. The significant salary variance between entry-level and seasoned educators is driven by these professional qualifications, experience levels, and individual contributions to their institutions' academic success.
Salary percentile breakdown
Chicago economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Education Teachers, Postsecondary make per hour in Chicago?
The median hourly wage for Education Teachers, Postsecondary in Chicago, IL-IN is —, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make — or more per hour.
Is Chicago above or below average for Education Teachers, Postsecondary salaries?
The median Education Teachers, Postsecondary salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 16% below the national median of $72,090. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Education Teachers, Postsecondary in Chicago?
Entry-level Education Teachers, Postsecondary (10th percentile) earn around $36,710 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $47,340.