Electrical Engineers Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $109,010 -2.6% vs national
Median hourly $52.41
10th percentile $76,070
90th percentile $168,580
Employed locally 4,340
National median $111,910

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Electrical Engineers
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Chicago, IL-IN
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, the typical electrical engineer earns a median annual salary of $109,010, which is slightly below the national median of $111,910 for this occupation. The median hourly wage in the area is $52.41. Compared to the local median household income, which stands at $88,850, an electrical engineer's earnings significantly surpass that figure. This indicates that electrical engineers are among the higher-earning professions within the region. With a 10th percentile salary of $76,070 and a 90th percentile salary of $168,580, there is considerable variation in earning potential based on experience and expertise.

    Entry-level electrical engineers in Chicago generally earn closer to the lower end of the pay scale, with salaries around or slightly above the 25th percentile mark at approximately $87,510. In contrast, experienced professionals can earn up to or beyond the 75th percentile, which is about $139,880, and even reach the 90th percentile, earning as much as $168,580 annually. The difference in earnings between entry-level and seasoned engineers is largely driven by factors such as years of experience, level of expertise, specialized skills, leadership roles, and additional certifications or advanced degrees that enhance an engineer's value to employers. These elements contribute significantly to salary progression within the field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $76,070
    25th
    $87,510
    50th (median)
    $109,010
    75th
    $139,880
    90th
    $168,580

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Electrical Engineers salary vs area income 123% Median Electrical Engineers salary is 23% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Electrical Engineers make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Electrical Engineers in Chicago, IL-IN is $52.41, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $79.75 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Electrical Engineers salaries?

    The median Electrical Engineers salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 2.6% below the national median of $111,910. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Electrical Engineers in Chicago?

    Entry-level Electrical Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $76,070 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $87,510.