ArchitectureOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Architect Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$109,809/yr
Typical range: $92,863 – $144,889
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Architect salary by experience level in Chicago
Architect Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $78,877 | $6,573 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $97,436 | $8,120 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,809 | $9,151 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $125,275 | $10,440 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $162,393 | $13,533 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $197,655 | $16,471 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $206,471 | $17,206 | +162% |
Current Salary
$109,809
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $53/hr
Next Level Target
$125,275
Senior · 6
+$15Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Architect salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Architects in Chicago, IL earn approximately $110K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Architect make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $110K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $53/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Architect in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Architect in Chicago, IL earns $145K–$177K/yr.