Human ResourcesOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Compensation & Benefits Analyst Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$128,649/yr
Typical range: $114,782 – $140,285
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Compensation & Benefits Analyst salary by experience level in Chicago
Compensation & Benefits Analyst 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 | $62,487 | $5,207 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $77,189 | $6,432 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $86,991 | $7,249 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $99,243 | $8,270 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $128,649 | $10,721 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $156,584 | $13,049 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $163,568 | $13,631 | +162% |
Current Salary
$128,649
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $62/hr
Next Level Target
$156,584
Principal · 14
+$28Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
43/100
Below Average
+14% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Compensation & Benefits Analyst salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Compensation & Benefits Analysts in Chicago, IL earn approximately $129K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Compensation & Benefits Analyst make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $129K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $62/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Compensation & Benefits Analyst in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Compensation & Benefits Analyst in Chicago, IL earns $115K–$140K/yr.