TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Web Developer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$175,541/yr
Typical range: $149,156 – $183,408
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Web Developer salary by experience level in Chicago
Web Developer 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 | $80,654 | $6,721 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $99,632 | $8,303 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $112,283 | $9,357 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $129,995 | $10,833 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $175,541 | $14,628 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $220,138 | $18,345 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $231,288 | $19,274 | +187% |
Current Salary
$175,541
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $84/hr
Next Level Target
$220,138
Principal · 14
+$45Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
42/100
Below Average
+16% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Web Developer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Web Developers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $176K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Web Developer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $176K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $84/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Web Developer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Web Developer in Chicago, IL earns $149K–$183K/yr.