Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education Salary in Chicago, IL-IN
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
Compare Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education salary & buying power
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In Chicago, IL-IN, secondary school teachers, excluding those in special and career/technical education, have a median annual salary of $80,440, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $64,580. This indicates that these educators are compensated well above the average for their profession across the United States. When comparing teacher salaries to local household income, teachers' earnings are slightly below the area's median household income of $88,850. Despite this discrepancy, the earning potential in teaching remains competitive within the region, offering financial stability comparable to other professions.
For entry-level secondary school teachers in Chicago, IL-IN, annual earnings can start at the 10th percentile salary level of $51,030, which reflects a significant initial income that provides a solid foundation for new educators. As they gain experience and potentially move up through the pay scale, experienced teachers can earn salaries as high as the 90th percentile, reaching up to $131,490 annually. The substantial difference in earnings between entry-level and experienced workers is driven by factors such as years of service, educational attainment, additional certifications, and performance evaluations. This progression underscores the potential for salary growth within the field, rewarding dedication and professional development.
Salary percentile breakdown
Chicago economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education make per hour in Chicago?
The median hourly wage for Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education in Chicago, IL-IN is —, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make — or more per hour.
Is Chicago above or below average for Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education salaries?
The median Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 24.6% above the national median of $64,580. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education in Chicago?
Entry-level Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education (10th percentile) earn around $51,030 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $63,360.