CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Motion Graphics Designer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$114,364/yr
Typical range: $118,582 – $153,081
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Motion Graphics Designer salary by experience level in Chicago
Motion Graphics Designer 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 | $55,395 | $4,616 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $71,478 | $5,957 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $83,391 | $6,949 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $94,350 | $7,863 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $114,364 | $9,530 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $130,089 | $10,841 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $134,021 | $11,168 | +142% |
Current Salary
$114,364
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $55/hr
Next Level Target
$130,089
Principal · 14
+$16Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
43/100
Below Average
+15% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Motion Graphics Designer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Motion Graphics Designers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $114K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Motion Graphics Designer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $114K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $55/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Motion Graphics Designer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Motion Graphics Designer in Chicago, IL earns $119K–$153K/yr.