Data Scientist Salary in Chicago, IL (2026)
How much does a Data Scientist make in Chicago?
The median salary for a Data Scientist in Chicago, IL is $131K per year. This is 14% above the national average. Entry-level Data Scientist positions in Chicago typically start around $86K, while experienced senior Data Scientist professionals earn $182K or more.
A Data Scientist analyzes complex data to extract insights and build predictive models. In Chicago the local job market cost of living and concentration of relevant employers all affect how competitive salaries are for this role.
Data Scientist salary in Chicago vs national average
Chicago pays 14% more than the national average for Data Scientists, driven by the city's close to the national average cost of living and strong demand for this role. The national median salary for a Data Scientist is $115K per year. In Chicago the median is $131K — 14% above the national average.
Chicago, IL has a close to the national average cost of living compared to the national average. This directly affects how far a Data Scientist salary in Chicago goes in practice. A salary of $131K in Chicago has roughly the same purchasing power than $115K in an average US city. When evaluating a Data Scientist offer in Chicago factor in housing costs, transportation, and taxes alongside the raw salary figure.
Chicago job market for Data Scientists
Chicago has strong demand for Data Scientists. Chicago offers a balanced market for Data Scientists with a reasonable number of opportunities and competitive but not extreme salary pressure. A Data Scientist in Chicago analyzes complex data to extract insights and build predictive models.
Data Scientist salary by experience level in Chicago
Experience is one of the strongest drivers of Data Scientist salary in Chicago. Compensation typically progresses significantly as you gain skills and demonstrated results:
- Entry level (0-2 years): $86K — roles at this level focus on learning and building foundational skills
- Mid-level (3-5 years): approaching the median of $131K — independent contributors with proven track record
- Senior (6-10 years): $182K — leadership technical expertise and specialisation command premium pay
- Principal / Director (10+ years): above $182K — strategic roles with organizational impact
What affects Data Scientist salary in Chicago?
Several factors determine where a Data Scientist falls within the salary range in Chicago:
- Years of experience — the single biggest driver of salary progression for Data Scientist roles
- Education and certifications — relevant degrees and professional certifications can significantly increase earning potential
- Employer size — larger companies and enterprise organizations typically pay more than small businesses or nonprofits
- Industry sector — Data Scientist roles in tech finance and healthcare tend to pay more than in education or nonprofits
- Specialisation — niche expertise and in-demand skills command premium salaries
- Remote vs on-site — fully remote roles sometimes allow Chicago professionals to access salaries from higher-paying markets
💡 Data Scientist salary negotiation tips for Chicago
When negotiating a Data Scientist salary in Chicago the $86K to $182K range gives you a data-backed framework. The 14% premium versus the national $115K median reflects Chicago's specific economic context. Research the specific employer before negotiating — tech companies and large enterprises typically pay at the top of the range in Chicago.
Always negotiate total compensation not just base salary. Bonuses equity benefits remote work flexibility and professional development budget can add significant value beyond the base salary figure.
Is Chicago a good city for Data Scientist jobs?
Chicago offers Data Scientist professionals a median salary of $131K which is 14% above the national average. Beyond salary consider the job density — cities with more employers competing for talent give Data Scientist professionals more negotiating power and career mobility.
Major tech finance or healthcare hubs typically offer the most Data Scientist opportunities and the highest salaries. Chicago\'s local economy and industry mix determine how strong demand is for Data Scientist skills specifically.
How to increase your Data Scientist salary in Chicago
- Earn relevant certifications or advanced degrees that are valued by Chicago employers for Data Scientist roles
- Develop specialised skills in the highest-demand areas — niche expertise commands the biggest salary premiums
- Build a track record of measurable results you can quantify in salary negotiations
- Network actively in the Chicago professional community — many of the best-paying roles are filled through referrals
- Consider remote roles — fully remote positions sometimes offer access to San Francisco or New York salaries from Chicago
- Change employers strategically — job-hopping every 2-3 years typically accelerates salary growth faster than annual raises
- Negotiate at every job change — most professionals leave significant salary on the table by not negotiating
Data sources
Salary figures are estimates based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics industry surveys and compensation databases. Actual salaries vary based on experience education employer size and specific role requirements. This data is intended as a general guide and should not be the sole basis for salary negotiations.