Highway Maintenance Workers Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

In Chicago and the surrounding areas of Illinois and Indiana, Highway Maintenance Workers earn a median annual salary of $64,760, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $49,070. This translates to a median hourly wage of $31.14. When compared to the local area's median household income of $88,850, the earnings of a typical highway maintenance worker fall slightly below the median household level. Despite earning less than the median household income, their compensation is competitive within the region and reflects a significant contribution to household earnings, especially in households where multiple members may work in this field or related sectors.

The salary spectrum for Highway Maintenance Workers shows considerable variation depending on experience levels, with entry-level positions typically starting at or near the 10th percentile of $43,420 annually. As workers gain more experience and potentially take on supervisory roles, their earnings can rise significantly, reaching the 25th percentile at $50,280, and even higher into the upper ranges. Those in the 75th percentile earn around $82,330 annually, while top earners at the 90th percentile make approximately $99,630 per year. The difference between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as job complexity, responsibility levels, specialized skills acquired over time, and regional demand for these essential services.