Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago, IL
How much does a mechanical 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 mechanical engineer salaries break down across different pay periods in Chicago.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $61,463 | $100,390 | $138,293 |
| Monthly | $5,122 | $8,366 | $11,524 |
| Biweekly | $2,364 | $3,861 | $5,319 |
| Weekly | $1,182 | $1,931 | $2,659 |
| Hourly | $30 | $48 | $66 |
Chicago vs National Average
How Chicago's mechanical engineer salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Chicago
About Mechanical Engineer
Overview
Design, develop, and test mechanical equipment and systems.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; PE license recommended
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +18% over the next decade
Compare Cities: Mechanical Engineer Salary
See Mechanical Engineer salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago, IL — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a mechanical engineer in Chicago, IL is $100,390 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 mechanical engineer professionals in Chicago can expect to earn around $61,463 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level mechanical engineers earning approximately $138,293 per year. This represents a 125% 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 $112,400, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a mechanical 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
Mechanical Engineers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 18% over the next decade. In Chicago, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.