TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Database Administrator Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$180,297/yr
Typical range: $153,196 – $188,376
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Database Administrator salary by experience level in Chicago
Database Administrator 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 | $82,839 | $6,903 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $102,330 | $8,528 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $115,325 | $9,610 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $133,517 | $11,126 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $180,297 | $15,025 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $226,102 | $18,842 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $237,553 | $19,796 | +187% |
Current Salary
$180,297
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $87/hr
Next Level Target
$226,102
Principal · 14
+$46Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
34/100
High Risk
+8% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Database Administrator salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Database Administrators in Chicago, IL earn approximately $180K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Database Administrator make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $180K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $87/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Database Administrator in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Database Administrator in Chicago, IL earns $153K–$188K/yr.