CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Videographer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$93,513/yr
Typical range: $96,962 – $125,171
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Videographer salary by experience level in Chicago
Videographer 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 | $45,295 | $3,775 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $58,446 | $4,871 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $68,187 | $5,682 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $77,148 | $6,429 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $93,513 | $7,793 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $106,371 | $8,864 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $109,586 | $9,132 | +142% |
Current Salary
$93,513
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $45/hr
Next Level Target
$106,371
Principal · 14
+$13Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
39/100
Below Average
+10% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Videographer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Videographers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $94K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Videographer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $94K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $45/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Videographer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Videographer in Chicago, IL earns $97K–$125K/yr.