Architect Salary in Chicago, IL
Architect salary data for Chicago, IL — adjusted for local cost of living. Entry-level to senior pay ranges, take-home pay calculator, and local job market insights.
Architect Salary in Chicago, IL — 2026
The median Architect salary in Chicago, IL is $92,020 per year ($7,668/month, $44/hr). This reflects the local cost of living index of 107, which is 7% above the national average.
Architect Take-Home Pay in Chicago
Tax Breakdown (Median Salary)
| Gross Annual | $92,020 |
| Federal Tax | -$11,858 |
| State Tax (5.0%) | -$4,555 |
| FICA (SS + Medicare) | -$7,040 |
| Annual Take-Home | $68,567 |
| Monthly Take-Home | $5,714 |
Living Cost Comparison
Architect Requirements
Key Skills
Chicago Job Market Overview
Chicago, Illinois has a population of 2,696,555 and an unemployment rate of 4.2%. The top industries are Finance, Technology, Healthcare. The local job growth rate is 1.5%, and the average commute time is 35 minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Architect salary in Chicago, IL?
How much does a Architect take home in Chicago after taxes?
Is Chicago a good city for Architects?
What skills are needed for a Architect in Chicago?
How does Architect salary in Chicago compare to the national average?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Architect salary in Chicago, IL?
The median Architect salary in Chicago, IL is $92,020 per year as of 2026. This is adjusted for the local cost of living index of 107. Entry-level Architects earn around $57,780, while senior-level professionals can earn $130,540 or more.
How much does a Architect take home in Chicago after taxes?
A Architect earning the median salary of $92,020 in Chicago, IL takes home approximately $68,567 per year ($5,714/month) after federal, state, and local taxes. The effective tax rate is 25.5%.
Is Chicago a good city for Architects?
Chicago, IL has a cost of living index of 107 (above national average). Architects here earn above the city median. The local unemployment rate is 4.2% and top industries include Finance, Technology, Healthcare.
What skills are needed for a Architect in Chicago?
Key skills for Architects include AutoCAD, Revit, Building Codes, 3D Modeling, Sustainable Design. Typical education requirement is Bachelor's of Architecture. Valuable certifications include ARE, LEED AP, NCARB Certification.
How does Architect salary in Chicago compare to the national average?
The national median Architect salary is $86,000. In Chicago, the adjusted salary is $92,020, which is 7.0% higher than the national average, reflecting the local cost of living.