TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Full Stack Developer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$211,255/yr
Typical range: $179,502 – $220,722
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Full Stack Developer salary by experience level in Chicago
Full Stack Developer 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 | $97,063 | $8,089 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $119,902 | $9,992 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $135,127 | $11,261 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $156,443 | $13,037 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $211,255 | $17,605 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $264,925 | $22,077 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $278,343 | $23,195 | +187% |
Current Salary
$211,255
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $102/hr
Next Level Target
$264,925
Principal · 14
+$54Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
55/100
Moderate
+24% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Full Stack Developer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Full Stack Developers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $211K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Full Stack Developer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $211K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $102/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Full Stack Developer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Full Stack Developer in Chicago, IL earns $180K–$221K/yr.