Office Clerks, General Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $45,450 +4.2% vs national
Median hourly $21.85
10th percentile $31,040
90th percentile $70,250
Employed locally 74,130
National median $43,630

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Office Clerks, General
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Chicago, IL-IN
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, office clerks in general earn a median annual salary of $45,450, which is slightly above the national median of $43,630 for the same occupation. This positions their earnings modestly higher than the broader national context, reflecting regional economic conditions. When compared to the local area's median household income of $88,850, it becomes evident that office clerks' earnings constitute approximately 51% of a typical household's income. This comparison underscores the relatively lower earning capacity of general office clerks in relation to the broader financial landscape of their community.

    The salary range for entry-level versus experienced office clerks in Chicago shows significant variation influenced by tenure and skill level. At the 10th percentile, earnings begin at $31,040 annually, suggesting a starting point for newcomers or those with minimal experience. Conversely, individuals at the 75th percentile earn around $56,720, indicating a substantial increase for those with more experience or additional responsibilities within their roles. The highest earners, at the 90th percentile, can make up to $70,250 annually, reflecting advanced skills or seniority positions. This disparity is driven by factors such as job complexity, responsibility levels, and individual competencies that come with longer tenure in the field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $31,040
    25th
    $36,740
    50th (median)
    $45,450
    75th
    $56,720
    90th
    $70,250

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Office Clerks, General salary vs area income 51% Median Office Clerks, General salary is 49% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Office Clerks, General make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Office Clerks, General in Chicago, IL-IN is $21.85, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $35.05 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Office Clerks, General salaries?

    The median Office Clerks, General salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 4.2% above the national median of $43,630. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Office Clerks, General in Chicago?

    Entry-level Office Clerks, General (10th percentile) earn around $31,040 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $36,740.