LegalOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Lawyer / Attorney Salary in Chicago
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$151,769/yr
Typical range: $125,076 – $214,460
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Lawyer / Attorney salary by experience level in Chicago
Lawyer / Attorney 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 | $94,992 | $7,916 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $127,748 | $10,646 | +34% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $151,769 | $12,647 | +60% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $186,709 | $15,559 | +97% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $278,426 | $23,202 | +193% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $383,245 | $31,937 | +303% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $409,450 | $34,121 | +331% |
Current Salary
$151,769
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $73/hr
Next Level Target
$186,709
Senior · 6
+$35Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
42/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Lawyer / Attorney salary in Chicago, IL?
Mid Level Lawyer / Attorneys in Chicago, IL earn approximately $152K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Lawyer / Attorney make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $152K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $73/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Lawyer / Attorney in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Lawyer / Attorney in Chicago, IL earns $214K–$274K/yr.