In Chicago, IL, Accountants earn a median of $79,810 a year — about 12% below the U.S. median of $90,780. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #24.
What that pay is worth in Chicago
Local prices run 104 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $89,490 salary buys less than it looks — about $86,384 in national-average buying power.
Can Accountants afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 — 3.5 times the average Accountant salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,380/mo takes roughly 19% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Accountant pay ladder in Chicago
Entry-level (10th percentile) Accountants earn about $52,080; the top 10% reach $132,430 — a $80,350 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Accountant job market in Chicago
Chicago employs roughly 41,820 Accountants. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Chicago with other cities
See the full Accountant salary by city ranking to weigh Chicago against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Accountants make in Chicago?
The average Accountant in Chicago, IL earns about $89,490 per year, 1.4% below the national average of $90,780.
What is the take-home pay for Accountants in Chicago after taxes?
After federal and IL taxes, this $89,490 salary is worth about $67,356 a year - roughly $5,613 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 25%.
What do the highest-paid Accountants earn in Chicago?
The top 10% of Accountants in Chicago earn about $132,430 a year, versus about $52,080 for the bottom 10%.
Can Accountants afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 - roughly 3.5x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.