FinanceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Financial Controller Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$143,026/yr
Typical range: $112,390 – $208,942
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Financial Controller salary by experience level in Chicago
Financial Controller 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 | $95,010 | $7,918 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $122,594 | $10,216 | +29% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $143,026 | $11,919 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $172,244 | $14,354 | +81% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $248,252 | $20,688 | +161% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $337,745 | $28,145 | +255% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $360,119 | $30,010 | +279% |
Current Salary
$143,026
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $69/hr
Next Level Target
$172,244
Senior · 6
+$29Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
32/100
High Risk
+8% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Financial Controller salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Financial Controllers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $143K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Financial Controller make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $143K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $69/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Financial Controller in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Financial Controller in Chicago, IL earns $209K–$276K/yr.