TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Data Scientist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$147,755/yr
Typical range: $169,533 – $208,464
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Data Scientist salary by experience level in Chicago
Data Scientist 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 | $91,673 | $7,639 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $113,243 | $9,437 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $127,623 | $10,635 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $147,755 | $12,313 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $199,523 | $16,627 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $250,213 | $20,851 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $262,885 | $21,907 | +187% |
Current Salary
$147,755
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $71/hr
Next Level Target
$199,523
Staff · 10
+$52Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
74/100
Above Average
+36% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Data Scientist salary in Chicago, IL?
Senior Data Scientists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $148K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Data Scientist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $148K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $71/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Data Scientist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Data Scientist in Chicago, IL earns $170K–$208K/yr.