In Chicago, IL, Registered Nurses earn a median of $85,160 a year — about 10% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #27.
What that pay is worth in Chicago
Local prices run 104 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $90,810 salary buys less than it looks — about $87,659 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Chicago?
A typical Chicago home runs about $315,200 — 3.5 times the average Registered Nurse salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,380/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Chicago
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $67,560; the top 10% reach $107,980 — a $40,420 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Registered Nurse job market in Chicago
Chicago employs roughly 102,330 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Chicago with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses make in Chicago?
The average Registered Nurse in Chicago, IL earns about $90,810 per year, 3.9% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Chicago after taxes?
After federal and IL taxes, this $90,810 salary is worth about $68,219 a year - roughly $5,684 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 25%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Chicago?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Chicago earn about $107,980 a year, versus about $67,560 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses 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.