TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead UX Designer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$197,256/yr
Typical range: $167,607 – $206,096
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
UX Designer salary by experience level in Chicago
UX 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 | $90,631 | $7,553 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $111,956 | $9,330 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $126,173 | $10,514 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $146,076 | $12,173 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $197,256 | $16,438 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $247,370 | $20,614 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $259,898 | $21,658 | +187% |
Current Salary
$197,256
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $95/hr
Next Level Target
$247,370
Principal · 14
+$50Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
53/100
Moderate
+20% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead UX Designer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead UX Designers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $197K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead UX Designer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $197K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $95/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior UX Designer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior UX Designer in Chicago, IL earns $168K–$206K/yr.