Head of UX Salary in Illinois, United States
The median Head of UX salary is $117,750 a year. Mid-level leaders in the city command packages that reflect design expertise and strategic oversight. The figure is higher than in surrounding suburbs.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$90,000 to $107,000
Average (per year)
$98,500
Startups and digital agencies in Chicago offer entry salaries that reflect the higher cost of living.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$107,500 to $128,000
Average (per year)
$117,750
Mid-level roles are found in finance, healthcare, and e-commerce firms.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$129,000 to $153,000
Average (per year)
$140,750
Senior Heads of UX manage teams at established companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$154,000+
Principal salaries exceed $250,000 at Fortune 500 headquarters and top SaaS employers.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$47 - $63
per hour
Mid-level
$63 - $84
per hour
Senior
$85 - $109
per hour
Nationally, Head of UX roles average around $105,000, leaving Chicago's median roughly $13,000 higher. The gap reflects local market conditions.