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.
$216,164/yr
Typical range: $183,673 – $225,851
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 | $99,319 | $8,277 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $122,688 | $10,224 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $138,267 | $11,522 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $160,078 | $13,340 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $216,164 | $18,014 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $271,082 | $22,590 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $284,811 | $23,734 | +187% |
Current Salary
$216,164
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $104/hr
Next Level Target
$271,082
Principal · 14
+$55Kpotential 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 $216K 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 $216K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $104/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 $184K–$226K/yr.