Ironworker Salary in Chicago, IL
How much does a ironworker make in Chicago? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Chicago's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how ironworker salaries break down across different pay periods in Chicago.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $48,813 | $93,190 | $130,171 |
| Monthly | $4,068 | $7,766 | $10,848 |
| Biweekly | $1,877 | $3,584 | $5,007 |
| Weekly | $939 | $1,792 | $2,503 |
| Hourly | $23 | $45 | $63 |
Chicago vs National Average
How Chicago's ironworker salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Chicago
About Ironworker
Overview
Assemble and erect structural steel and reinforced concrete.
Education
High school diploma; apprenticeship required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +12% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Ironworker Salary
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Financial Tools to Explore
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Ironworker Salary in Chicago, IL — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a ironworker in Chicago, IL is $93,190 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 ironworker professionals in Chicago can expect to earn around $48,813 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level ironworkers earning approximately $130,171 per year. This represents a 167% 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 $56,840, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a ironworker's salary in Chicago typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,700 per month, housing represents about 21.9% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Ironworkers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 12% over the next decade. In Chicago, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.