UX Lead Salary in Illinois, United States
The median salary for UX leadership in Illinois is $91,750 per year. Chicago has fintech and health‑tech firms. Mid‑level leads balance product strategy with hands‑on prototyping.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$69,000 to $83,500
Average (per year)
$75,750
Entry-level roles are present in the local job market.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$83,000 to $99,500
Average (per year)
$91,750
Mid-level designers work with regional agencies and local employers.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$100,000 to $118,500
Average (per year)
$109,000
Senior UX Leads manage teams in local organizations.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$119,500+
Principal-level positions are available, and some companies offer higher salaries.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$37 - $50
per hour
Mid-level
$51 - $68
per hour
Senior
$69 - $89
per hour
Nationally, the median salary for UX leads is $95,000, placing Illinois slightly below the average. However, lower housing costs in many suburbs offset the gap.