BusinessOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Project Manager Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$167,245/yr
Typical range: $151,243 – $187,109
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Project Manager salary by experience level in Chicago
Project Manager 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 | $77,650 | $6,471 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $97,958 | $8,163 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $112,293 | $9,358 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $129,018 | $10,752 | +66% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $167,245 | $13,937 | +115% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $200,694 | $16,725 | +158% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $209,057 | $17,421 | +169% |
Current Salary
$167,245
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $80/hr
Next Level Target
$200,694
Principal · 14
+$33Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
44/100
Below Average
+12% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Project Manager salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Project Managers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $167K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Project Manager make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $167K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $80/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Project Manager in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Project Manager in Chicago, IL earns $151K–$187K/yr.