Tool and Die Makers Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

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

Median annual salary $61,580 -2.5% vs national
Median hourly $29.61
10th percentile $43,000
90th percentile $85,230
Employed locally 3,100
National median $63,180

Compare Tool and Die Makers salary & buying power

Type a city below to see how Chicago, IL-IN stacks up on salary and cost of living.

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Tool and Die Makers
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, Tool and Die Makers typically earn a median annual salary of $61,580, which is slightly below the national median of $63,180. This translates to a median hourly wage of $29.61. When compared to local household income, which stands at an area median of $88,850, the earnings for Tool and Die Makers represent approximately 69% of the median household income. Despite being slightly lower than the national average, their wages are competitive within the local context, reflecting a stable employment environment with an estimated workforce of 3,100 in the region.

    Entry-level Tool and Die Makers in this area start at around $43,000 annually, as indicated by the 10th percentile salary. Those at the 25th percentile earn approximately $49,570 per year. On the other hand, more experienced workers with higher skill levels and productivity can expect to earn significantly more, reaching up to $77,240 at the 75th percentile and even exceeding $85,230 at the 90th percentile. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by factors such as experience, proficiency with advanced machinery, specialized skills, and the ability to manage complex projects independently. These elements contribute to higher productivity and value within the industry, justifying the substantial salary differences observed across different career stages.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $43,000
    25th
    $49,570
    50th (median)
    $61,580
    75th
    $77,240
    90th
    $85,230

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Tool and Die Makers salary vs area income 69% Median Tool and Die Makers salary is 31% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Tool and Die Makers make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Tool and Die Makers in Chicago, IL-IN is $29.61, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $39.93 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Tool and Die Makers salaries?

    The median Tool and Die Makers salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 2.5% below the national median of $63,180. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Tool and Die Makers in Chicago?

    Entry-level Tool and Die Makers (10th percentile) earn around $43,000 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $49,570.