MarketingOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Brand Manager Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$157,161/yr
Typical range: $151,756 – $188,888
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Brand Manager salary by experience level in Chicago
Brand Manager 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 | $77,390 | $6,449 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $97,630 | $8,136 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $111,917 | $9,326 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $126,681 | $10,557 | +64% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $157,161 | $13,097 | +103% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $183,830 | $15,319 | +138% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $190,498 | $15,875 | +146% |
Current Salary
$157,161
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$183,830
Principal · 14
+$27Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
41/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Brand Manager salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Brand Managers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $157K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Brand Manager make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $157K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Brand Manager in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Brand Manager in Chicago, IL earns $152K–$189K/yr.