What is the median salary for Graphic Designers in Chicago, Illinois?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Graphic Designers in the Chicago metropolitan area is $62,490.

Does Chicago pay more than the Illinois state average for Graphic Designers?

The Chicago metro median is +4.1% versus the Illinois state median of $60,010.

How does Chicago compare to the national median for Graphic Designers?

The Chicago metro median is +0.2% versus the BLS national figure of $62,356.

What is the salary range for Graphic Designers in Chicago?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $41,820 and the 90th-percentile at $95,920 for the Chicago metro area.

What education is required for Graphic Designers?

BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.

Graphic Designers Salary in Chicago, Illinois

Median annual$62,490

Mean annual$66,850

Range (10th to 90th)$41,820 to $95,920

Chicago, Illinois employment6,080

State vs national+0.2% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Chicago graphic designers fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

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

The middle 50% of workers earn between $47,880 and $78,600, with a median of $62,490.

Typical entry

Education
Bachelor's degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Design
Knowledge
4.7 / 5
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
4.4 / 5
Fine Arts
Knowledge
4.4 / 5
Communications and Media
Knowledge
4.3 / 5
Originality
Ability
4.0 / 5
Fluency of Ideas
Ability
3.9 / 5
Near Vision
Ability
3.9 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
3.8 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

01
Key information into computer equipment to create layouts for client or supervisor.
02
Review final layouts and suggest improvements, as needed.
03
Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and select style and size of type.
04
Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and Web sites.
05
Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts, based on knowledge of layout principles and esthetic design concepts.
06
Use computer software to generate new images.
07
Prepare digital files for printing.
08
Confer with clients to discuss and determine layout design.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Graphic Designers in Chicago, Illinois?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Graphic Designers in the Chicago metropolitan area is $62,490.
Does Chicago pay more than the Illinois state average for Graphic Designers?: The Chicago metro median is +4.1% versus the Illinois state median of $60,010.
How does Chicago compare to the national median for Graphic Designers?: The Chicago metro median is +0.2% versus the BLS national figure of $62,356.
What is the salary range for Graphic Designers in Chicago?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $41,820 and the 90th-percentile at $95,920 for the Chicago metro area.
What education is required for Graphic Designers?: 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.