Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $78,340 +5.5% vs national
Median hourly $37.66
10th percentile $53,920
90th percentile $109,540
Employed locally 9,510
National median $74,260

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    In Chicago and the surrounding areas of Illinois and Indiana, Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants earn a median annual salary of $78,340, which is slightly above the national median of $74,260. This position sees a considerable range in earnings, with salaries at the 10th percentile starting at $53,920 and reaching up to $109,540 at the 90th percentile. When compared to the area's median household income of $88,850, the salary for these roles is somewhat lower on average but can exceed it depending on experience and responsibilities. The local unemployment rate stands at 5.10%, indicating a stable job market for this occupation, which employs approximately 9,510 individuals in the region.

    Entry-level Executive Secretaries and Administrative Assistants typically earn around $53,920 annually, reflecting their initial positioning within the salary distribution. In contrast, those with more experience can command salaries up to $95,750 at the 75th percentile or even higher, reaching $109,540 for top earners. The difference in earnings between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by several factors, including years of service, skill level, industry knowledge, and the complexity of tasks managed. Experienced professionals often handle more complex administrative duties, possess a broader understanding of corporate operations, and may oversee larger teams or projects, justifying their higher compensation.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $53,920
    25th
    $63,230
    50th (median)
    $78,340
    75th
    $95,750
    90th
    $109,540

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants salary vs area income 88% Median Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants salary is 12% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants in Chicago, IL-IN is $37.66, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $51.65 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants salaries?

    The median Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 5.5% above the national median of $74,260. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants in Chicago?

    Entry-level Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants (10th percentile) earn around $53,920 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $63,230.