Accountant Salary in Chicago, IL (2026)
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data adjusted for Chicago cost of living. Last updated .
Median Annual Salary
$85,000
Chicago, Illinois
Entry Level (10th pct.)
$50,000
0â2 years experience
25th Percentile
$63,000
Below average earner
Median (50th pct.)
$85,000
Typical earner
75th Percentile
$111,000
Above average earner
Top Earner (90th pct.)
$141,000
5+ years experience
Accountant Salary Breakdown â Chicago, IL
The table below shows how Accountant salaries in Chicago distribute across experience levels and pay percentiles in 2026.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | Hourly (est.) | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th | $50,000 | $4,167 | $24 | Entry-level, new graduate |
| 25th | $63,000 | $5,250 | $30 | 1â3 years experience |
| Median | $85,000 | $7,083 | $41 | Mid-career professional |
| 75th | $111,000 | $9,250 | $53 | Experienced professional |
| 90th | $141,000 | $11,750 | $68 | Senior / specialist |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), adjusted for Chicago regional cost of living. Data as of 2026.
Visual Salary Distribution
What Affects Accountant Salaries in Chicago?
- Experience: Entry-level professionals earn significantly less than their senior counterparts. In Chicago, the gap between the 10th and 90th percentile is $91,000.
- Industry: Accountants working in high-demand industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare often command salaries above the median.
- Education & Certifications: Advanced degrees and relevant professional certifications can move your salary into the upper quartile.
- Company size: Larger organizations typically offer higher compensation packages, including bonuses and equity.
- Location within Chicago: Employers in downtown/central business districts or tech corridors often pay more than suburban offices.
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