TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead SOC Analyst Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$153,472/yr
Typical range: $130,403 – $160,349
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
SOC Analyst salary by experience level in Chicago
SOC Analyst 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 | $70,514 | $5,876 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $87,105 | $7,259 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $98,166 | $8,181 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $113,652 | $9,471 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $153,472 | $12,789 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $192,462 | $16,039 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $202,209 | $16,851 | +187% |
Current Salary
$153,472
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $74/hr
Next Level Target
$192,462
Principal · 14
+$39Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
65/100
Good
+28% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead SOC Analyst salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead SOC Analysts in Chicago, IL earn approximately $153K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead SOC Analyst make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $153K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $74/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior SOC Analyst in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior SOC Analyst in Chicago, IL earns $130K–$160K/yr.