TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead BI Developer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$151,247/yr
Typical range: $128,513 – $158,025
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
BI Developer salary by experience level in Chicago
BI Developer 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 | $69,492 | $5,791 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $85,843 | $7,154 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $96,744 | $8,062 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $112,005 | $9,334 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $151,247 | $12,604 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $189,672 | $15,806 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $199,278 | $16,607 | +187% |
Current Salary
$151,247
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $73/hr
Next Level Target
$189,672
Principal · 14
+$38Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
53/100
Moderate
+22% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead BI Developer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead BI Developers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $151K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead BI Developer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $151K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $73/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior BI Developer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior BI Developer in Chicago, IL earns $129K–$158K/yr.