BLS OEWS Data · 2025

Software Developer Salary in Chicago, IL

Based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Median Annual Salary
$132,200
vs. National Average
-3%
National: $135,980

Salary Range in Chicago

Top 10%$203,600
75th Percentile$165,800
Median (50th)$132,200
25th Percentile$99,200
Bottom 10%$74,200

How Much Does a Software Developer Make in Chicago, IL?

The median Software Developer salary in Chicago, IL is $132,200 per year as of 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is 3% lower than the national median of $135,980.

Salaries in Chicago range from $74,200 at the 10th percentile to $203,600 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% of Software Developers in Chicago earn between $99,200 and $165,800 per year.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025. Occupation: Software Developer (SOC 15-1252).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Software Developer make in Chicago, IL?

The median Software Developer salary in Chicago, IL is $132,200 per year as of 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What is the salary range for a Software Developer in Chicago?

Software Developer salaries in Chicago range from $74,200 at the 10th percentile to $203,600 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $99,200 and $165,800 per year.

Is Chicago a good place to work as a Software Developer?

Chicago Software Developer salaries are 3% lower than the national median. Chicago is roughly in line with the national average for Software Developers.

Where does the salary data come from?

All data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey — the most comprehensive salary database in the United States, covering approximately 830 occupations across 600+ metropolitan areas.