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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Fundraisers 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$64,340
Mean annual$67,460
Range (10th to 90th)$39,410 to $95,740
Chicago, Illinois employment3,280
State vs national-5.6% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Chicago fundraisers fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

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

10TH$39,41025TH$50,100MEDIAN$64,34075TH$80,22090TH$95,740

The middle 50% of workers earn between $50,100 and $80,220, with a median of $64,340.

Typical entry

  • Education

    Bachelor's degree

  • Experience

    None

  • On-the-job training

    None

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Customer and Personal Service

    Knowledge

    4.6 / 5

  • English Language

    Knowledge

    4.3 / 5

  • Speaking

    Basic skill

    4.1 / 5

  • Oral Expression

    Ability

    4.1 / 5

  • Speech Clarity

    Ability

    4.1 / 5

  • Persuasion

    Technical

    4.0 / 5

  • Writing

    Basic skill

    4.0 / 5

  • Active Listening

    Basic skill

    4.0 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Identify and build relationships with potential donors.

  2. 02

    Secure commitments of participation or donation from individuals or corporate donors.

  3. 03

    Write and send letters of thanks to donors.

  4. 04

    Solicit cash or in-kind donations or sponsorships from individual, business, or government donors.

  5. 05

    Create or update donor databases.

  6. 06

    Develop strategies to encourage new or increased contributions.

  7. 07

    Develop or implement fundraising activities, such as annual giving campaigns or direct mail programs.

  8. 08

    Compile or develop materials to submit to granting or other funding organizations.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Fundraisers in Chicago, Illinois?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Fundraisers in the Chicago metropolitan area is $64,340.
Does Chicago pay more than the Illinois state average for Fundraisers?
The Chicago metro median is +1.5% versus the Illinois state median of $63,360.
How does Chicago compare to the national median for Fundraisers?
The Chicago metro median is -5.6% versus the BLS national figure of $68,149.
What is the salary range for Fundraisers in Chicago?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $39,410 and the 90th-percentile at $95,740 for the Chicago metro area.
What education is required for Fundraisers?
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.