Civil Engineer Salary in Chicago, IL
How much does a civil engineer make in Chicago? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Chicago's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how civil engineer salaries break down across different pay periods in Chicago.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $61,224 | $100,280 | $137,225 |
| Monthly | $5,102 | $8,357 | $11,435 |
| Biweekly | $2,355 | $3,857 | $5,278 |
| Weekly | $1,177 | $1,928 | $2,639 |
| Hourly | $29 | $48 | $66 |
Chicago vs National Average
How Chicago's civil engineer salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Chicago
About Civil Engineer
Overview
Plan, design, and oversee construction of infrastructure projects.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering; PE license recommended
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +17% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Civil Engineer Salary
See Civil Engineer salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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Civil Engineer Salary in Chicago, IL — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a civil engineer in Chicago, IL is $100,280 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 112. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Chicago's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level civil engineer professionals in Chicago can expect to earn around $61,224 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level civil engineers earning approximately $137,225 per year. This represents a 124% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Chicago's cost of living index of 112 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Chicago are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $108,750, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a civil engineer's salary in Chicago typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,700 per month, housing represents about 20.3% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Civil Engineers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 17% over the next decade. In Chicago, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.