Computer Programmer Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin

Writes, tests, and maintains code that runs software systems and applications.

Ranks #222 of 530 metros·Illinois·$95,846 avg

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ranks #222 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $3,288 below the national average.

Level I
$58,032
vs national avg: -5%
Level II
$76,835
vs national avg: -2%
Level III
$95,659
vs national avg: +0%
Level IV
$114,462
vs national avg: +2%

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin vs National Average

LevelThis MetroNational AvgDifference% Change
Level I (Entry)$58,032$61,320$-3,288-5.4%
Level II$76,835$78,293$-1,458-1.9%
Level III (Mid)$95,659$95,267+$392+0.4%
Level IV (Senior)$114,462$112,240+$2,222+2.0%

Other metros in Illinois

Metro AreaLevel ILevel IVAverage
St. Louis$71,282$116,730$101,733
South Illinois$69,971$116,230$100,963
Springfield$70,117$116,064$100,901
East Central Illinois$69,306$114,005$99,258
West Central Illinois$61,963$113,173$96,262

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average computer programmer salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin?

The average computer programmer salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin is $95,846 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Chicago-Naperville-Elgin at rank #222 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.

What do entry-level computer programmers earn in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin?

Entry-level computer programmers (Level I) in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin earn $58,032 per year. Level II (early career) earns $76,835, reflecting growing independence and experience.

How does Chicago-Naperville-Elgin compare to the national average for computer programmer salaries?

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ranks #222 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $3,288 below the national average. The national average computer programmer salary is $95,436, while Chicago-Naperville-Elgin workers average $95,846 — a difference of +0% 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: 15-1251.