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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Architects salary in Chicago, Illinois

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Chicago metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$79,240
Mean annual$90,270
Range (10th to 90th)$58,840 to $126,470
Chicago, Illinois employment4,920
State vs national-15.4% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Chicago architects fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$58,84025TH$69,870MEDIAN$79,24075TH$101,38090TH$126,470

The middle 50% of workers earn between $69,870 and $101,380, with a median of $79,240.

Typical entry

  • Education

    Bachelor's degree

  • Experience

    Internship/residency

  • On-the-job training

    None

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Design

    Knowledge

    4.9 / 5

  • Building and Construction

    Knowledge

    4.8 / 5

  • Visualization

    Ability

    4.1 / 5

  • Public Safety and Security

    Knowledge

    4.1 / 5

  • Engineering and Technology

    Knowledge

    4.0 / 5

  • Operations Analysis

    Technical

    4.0 / 5

  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge

    4.0 / 5

  • Speaking

    Basic skill

    4.0 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Develop final construction plans that include aesthetic representations of the structure or details for its construction.

  2. 02

    Prepare scale drawings or architectural designs, using computer-aided design or other tools.

  3. 03

    Prepare information regarding design, structure specifications, materials, color, equipment, estimated costs, or construction time.

  4. 04

    Consult with clients to determine functional or spatial requirements of structures.

  5. 05

    Meet with clients to review or discuss architectural drawings.

  6. 06

    Integrate engineering elements into unified architectural designs.

  7. 07

    Monitor the work of specialists, such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, interior designers, or sound specialists to ensure optimal form or function of designs or final structures.

  8. 08

    Plan layouts of structural architectural projects.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Architects in Chicago, Illinois?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Architects in the Chicago metropolitan area is $79,240.
Does Chicago pay more than the Illinois state average for Architects?
The Chicago metro median is -0.1% versus the Illinois state median of $79,320.
How does Chicago compare to the national median for Architects?
The Chicago metro median is -15.4% versus the BLS national figure of $93,633.
What is the salary range for Architects in Chicago?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $58,840 and the 90th-percentile at $126,470 for the Chicago metro area.
What education is required for Architects?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Chicago CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.