ArchitectureOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Architect Salary in Chicago
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$116,886/yr
Typical range: $135,187 – $165,224
P75 · 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 | $73,595 | $6,133 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $90,912 | $7,576 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $102,456 | $8,538 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $116,886 | $9,741 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $151,519 | $12,627 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $184,421 | $15,368 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $192,646 | $16,054 | +162% |
Current Salary
$116,886
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $56/hr
Next Level Target
$151,519
Staff · 10
+$35Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Architect salary in Chicago, IL?
Senior Architects in Chicago, IL earn approximately $117K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Architect make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $117K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $56/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior 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 $135K–$165K/yr.