Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $78,560 -21.9% vs national
Median hourly $37.77
10th percentile $59,960
90th percentile $162,720
Employed locally 3,760
National median $100,590

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Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, medical scientists, except epidemiologists, earn a median annual salary of $78,560, which is below the national median for this occupation at $100,590. This salary translates to an hourly rate of approximately $37.77. When compared to local household income in the area, which stands at $88,850, medical scientists' earnings are relatively close but still slightly lower than the median. This suggests that while medical scientists contribute significantly to healthcare and research sectors, their compensation does not surpass local average household incomes, indicating a potential disparity between specialized scientific roles and general economic conditions within the region.

    Entry-level positions for medical scientists in Chicago, IL-IN start at around $59,960 annually (10th percentile), with more experienced professionals earning up to $162,720 annually (90th percentile). The 25th percentile salary is approximately $66,270, while those in the top quarter of earners make about $126,100. This significant range reflects various factors influencing earnings, including education level, years of experience, and specialized expertise within medical science fields. Additionally, industry demand for advanced skills and research capabilities often drives higher salaries at the upper end of the spectrum, illustrating a clear progression from entry-level to experienced positions based on accumulated knowledge and contributions to the field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $59,960
    25th
    $66,270
    50th (median)
    $78,560
    75th
    $126,100
    90th
    $162,720

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary vs area income 88% Median Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary is 12% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in Chicago, IL-IN is $37.77, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $69.00 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salaries?

    The median Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 21.9% below the national median of $100,590. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in Chicago?

    Entry-level Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (10th percentile) earn around $59,960 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $66,270.