Salary Data
Data Scientist Salary in Chicago
$139,000
median salary, 7% above the national average
According to Orbyt's 2026 salary analysis, the average Data Scientist salary in Chicago is $139,000. Salaries range from $107,000 (25th percentile) to $180,000 (75th percentile), adjusted for Chicago's cost of living.
Salary range
How Chicago compares
Chicago, IL
$139,000
Cost of living: 7% above average
National Average
$130,000
Chicago is $9,000 above
Data Scientist job market in Chicago
Chicago market overview
Chicago's economy is anchored by finance, manufacturing, and a rapidly expanding tech sector. The city has become a major hub for fintech, enterprise SaaS, and e-commerce. With lower living costs than coastal cities and a deep talent pool from top universities, Chicago offers strong salary to cost of living ratios for professionals across industries.
What drives Data Scientist salaries
Statistical depth, industry vertical, and the ability to translate models into business impact are the biggest levers. Data scientists who can deploy production ML models earn significantly more than those focused solely on analysis. Specialization in NLP, computer vision, or causal inference commands additional premiums.
Beyond base salary
Total compensation
Equity grants at tech companies add $20,000 to $100,000+ annually, especially at ML focused firms. Bonuses of 10 to 20% are standard. Some companies offer research stipends, conference travel budgets, and compute credits as additional perks.
Tax considerations in Chicago
Illinois has a flat 4.95% state income tax. Chicago does not levy a separate city income tax, making the overall burden moderate compared to coastal metros.
Career progression
Entry level data scientists with a master's degree start at $95,000 to $120,000. Mid level roles reach $130,000 to $170,000 after three years. Senior data scientists earn $170,000 to $220,000, while principal or staff level scientists at top firms exceed $250,000 in total compensation.
Top industries in Chicago
Negotiating in Chicago
Reference the Bay Area or NYC salary band for your role, then negotiate a modest discount. Chicago employers routinely offer 85 to 90% of coastal pay.