TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Data Architect Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$242,007/yr
Typical range: $205,631 – $252,852
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Data Architect salary by experience level in Chicago
Data Architect 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 | $111,192 | $9,266 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $137,355 | $11,446 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $154,797 | $12,900 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $179,216 | $14,935 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $242,007 | $20,167 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $303,489 | $25,291 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $318,860 | $26,572 | +187% |
Current Salary
$242,007
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $116/hr
Next Level Target
$303,489
Principal · 14
+$61Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
68/100
Good
+28% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Data Architect salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Data Architects in Chicago, IL earn approximately $242K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Data Architect make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $242K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $116/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Data Architect in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Data Architect in Chicago, IL earns $206K–$253K/yr.