MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Copywriter Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$116,813/yr
Typical range: $104,222 – $127,379
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Copywriter salary by experience level in Chicago
Copywriter 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 | $56,738 | $4,728 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $70,088 | $5,841 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $78,988 | $6,582 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $90,113 | $7,509 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $116,813 | $9,734 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $142,178 | $11,848 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $148,520 | $12,377 | +162% |
Current Salary
$116,813
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $56/hr
Next Level Target
$142,178
Principal · 14
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
29/100
High Risk
+8% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Copywriter salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Copywriters in Chicago, IL earn approximately $117K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Copywriter 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 staff / lead to senior Copywriter in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Copywriter in Chicago, IL earns $104K–$127K/yr.