Web Designer Salary in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago's web design salaries are shaped by the city's economy. The Loop and River North have high living costs. National tech consultancies and growing start-ups are present here.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$48,000 to $63,000
Average (per year)
$55,500
New hires work for creative agencies or mid-sized tech firms concentrated in downtown and the West Loop.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$64,000 to $83,000
Average (per year)
$73,000
Designers with several years of experience join digital marketing teams for healthcare and finance companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$84,000 to $104,000
Average (per year)
$94,000
Senior web designers lead small teams or manage client portfolios for consultancies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000+
At the principal level, designers earn higher salaries.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$24 - $36
per hour
Mid-level
$37 - $52
per hour
Senior
$53 - $75
per hour