In Chicago, IL, Data Scientists earn a median of $108,580 a year — about 9% below the U.S. median of $119,040. 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 $116,570 salary buys less than it looks — about $112,525 in national-average buying power.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 — 2.7 times the average Data Scientist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,380/mo takes roughly 14% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Chicago
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $62,320; the top 10% reach $174,260 — a $111,940 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Data Scientist job market in Chicago
Chicago employs roughly 4,930 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Chicago with other cities
See the full Data Scientist 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 Data Scientists make in Chicago?
The average Data Scientist in Chicago, IL earns about $116,570 per year, 2.1% below the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Chicago after taxes?
After federal and IL taxes, this $116,570 salary is worth about $85,066 a year - roughly $7,088 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 27%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Chicago?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Chicago earn about $174,260 a year, versus about $62,320 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 - roughly 2.7x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.