FinanceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Financial Controller Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$231,631/yr
Typical range: $194,953 – $257,866
P90 · 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 | $88,649 | $7,387 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $114,386 | $9,532 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $133,450 | $11,121 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $160,712 | $13,393 | +81% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $231,631 | $19,303 | +161% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $315,132 | $26,261 | +255% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $336,008 | $28,001 | +279% |
Current Salary
$231,631
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $111/hr
Next Level Target
$315,132
Principal · 14
+$84Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
32/100
High Risk
+8% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Financial Controller salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Financial Controllers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $232K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Financial Controller make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $232K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $111/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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 $195K–$258K/yr.