Compensation & Benefits Specialist Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Manages employee pay structures, benefits programs, and job classification systems.
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ranks #108 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,224 above the national average.
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $51,480 | $50,256 | +$1,224 | +2.4% |
| Level II | $66,310 | $61,931 | +$4,379 | +7.1% |
| Level III (Mid) | $81,162 | $73,605 | +$7,557 | +10.3% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $95,992 | $85,280 | +$10,712 | +12.6% |
Other metros in Illinois
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis | $55,224 | $96,824 | $83,096 |
| Kankakee | $51,355 | $95,077 | $80,642 |
| Bloomington | $52,645 | $94,037 | $80,371 |
| Northwest Illinois | $51,854 | $93,246 | $79,581 |
| South Illinois | $57,138 | $82,659 | $74,235 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin?
The average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin is $81,307 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Chicago-Naperville-Elgin at rank #108 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level compensation & benefits specialists earn in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin?
Entry-level compensation & benefits specialists (Level I) in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin earn $51,480 per year. Level II (early career) earns $66,310, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Chicago-Naperville-Elgin compare to the national average for compensation & benefits specialist salaries?
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ranks #108 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,224 above the national average. The national average compensation & benefits specialist salary is $73,722, while Chicago-Naperville-Elgin workers average $81,307 — a difference of +10% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 13-1141.