Software Developer Salary in Chicago, IL
Average annual salary for software developers. Updated March 2026 with data from BLS, U.S. Census Bureau, and industry surveys.
Average Annual Salary
$74.900 – $160.500
+7% vs national average
$74.900$117.700$160.500
LowNational avg: $110.000High
Chicago vs State & National Average
| Category | Chicago | Illinois Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average salary | $117.700 | $117.315 | $110.000 |
| Low estimate | $74.900 | $87.986 | $82.500 |
| High estimate | $160.500 | $152.510 | $143.000 |
Salary by Experience Level
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior (0-2 years) | $58.850 | $90.950 | |
| Mid-level (3-5 years) | $85.600 | $128.400 | |
| Senior (5-10 years) | $117.700 | $171.200 | |
| Lead / Staff (10+ years) | $149.800 | $214.000 |
Software Developer Salary in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does software developer salary cost in Chicago?
In Chicago, IL, software developer salary typically costs between $74.900 and $160.500. The average is $117.700, which is 7% above the national average.
Is Chicago expensive for software developer salary?
Chicago has a cost-of-living index of 107 (100 = national average). Software Developer Salary costs are 7% higher than the national average of $110.000.
What factors affect software developer salary costs in Chicago?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Illinois state regulations, and Chicago's overall cost of living (index: 107/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.