MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Communications Director Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$210,990/yr
Typical range: $188,247 – $230,073
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Communications Director salary by experience level in Chicago
Communications Director 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 | $102,481 | $8,540 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $126,594 | $10,550 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $142,669 | $11,889 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $162,764 | $13,564 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $210,990 | $17,583 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $256,805 | $21,400 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $268,258 | $22,355 | +162% |
Current Salary
$210,990
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $101/hr
Next Level Target
$256,805
Principal · 14
+$46Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
44/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Communications Director salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Communications Directors in Chicago, IL earn approximately $211K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Communications Director make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $211K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $101/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Communications Director in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Communications Director in Chicago, IL earns $188K–$230K/yr.