UX Researcher Salary in Near North Side, Illinois

Near North Side is located near many tech and finance employers in Chicago. Salaries reflect the area's cost of living. Researchers work in office towers and creative studios in the area.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$68,000 to $85,000

Average (per year)

$76,000

Corporate headquarters and agencies in downtown Chicago recruit recent graduates.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$85,000 to $105,000

Average (per year)

$95,000

Tech firms in the area seek researchers with several years' experience to guide user studies and design thinking workshops.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$105,000 to $130,000

Average (per year)

$118,000

Senior UX researchers lead project teams for finance, health tech, and consulting employers headquartered in the city.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$130,000+

Principal-level roles in Chicago focus on strategy, stakeholder management, and major product lines.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$35 - $50

per hour

Mid-level

$50 - $75

per hour

Senior

$75 - $115

per hour