TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1000–2 years
Entry Level Game Developer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Recent graduates and professionals with under 2 years of experience.
$88,609/yr
Typical range: $84,270 – $103,621
P10–P25 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Game Developer salary by experience level in Chicago
Game 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EntryThis page | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $88,609 | $7,384 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $109,459 | $9,122 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $123,358 | $10,280 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $142,818 | $11,902 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $192,856 | $16,071 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $241,852 | $20,154 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $254,101 | $21,175 | +187% |
Current Salary
$88,609
Entry Level · 0–2 years
Hourly: $43/hr
Next Level Target
$109,459
Junior · 2
+$21Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
46/100
Below Average
+14% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry level Game Developer salary in Chicago, IL?
Entry Level Game Developers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $89K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P10–P25 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a entry level Game Developer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $89K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $43/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from entry level to senior Game Developer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 4–6 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Game Developer in Chicago, IL earns $164K–$201K/yr.