ArchitectureOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Urban Planner Salary in Chicago
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$109,523/yr
Typical range: $126,671 – $154,815
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Urban Planner salary by experience level in Chicago
Urban Planner 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 | $68,959 | $5,747 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $85,184 | $7,099 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $96,001 | $8,000 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $109,523 | $9,127 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $141,974 | $11,831 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $172,803 | $14,400 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $180,510 | $15,043 | +162% |
Current Salary
$109,523
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $53/hr
Next Level Target
$141,974
Staff · 10
+$32Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
45/100
Below Average
+10% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Urban Planner salary in Chicago, IL?
Senior Urban Planners in Chicago, IL earn approximately $110K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Urban Planner make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $110K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $53/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Urban Planner in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Urban Planner in Chicago, IL earns $127K–$155K/yr.