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.
$254,869/yr
Typical range: $216,560 – $266,291
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 | $117,102 | $9,759 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $144,656 | $12,055 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $163,025 | $13,585 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $188,741 | $15,728 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $254,869 | $21,239 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $319,620 | $26,635 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $335,808 | $27,984 | +187% |
Current Salary
$254,869
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $123/hr
Next Level Target
$319,620
Principal · 14
+$65Kpotential 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 $255K 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 $255K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $123/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 $217K–$266K/yr.