As of January 01, 2026, the average annual salary for computer software engineering in Chicago, IL is $143,952, equivalent to $69 per hour, $2,768 weekly, or $11,996 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for computer software engineering in cities like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Fremont.

Annually Salaries for computer software engineering in Chicago, IL vary widely, spanning from $122,210 to $167,645. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($132,571) and 75th percentile ($156,353), while top earners (90th percentile) make $167,645 per year. This $23,782 pay gap underscores opportunities for salary growth through certifications, specialized skills like Analysis or Software Development, or targeting high-paying regions like District of Columbia or California.

Location and experience significantly influence earnings. For example, Chicago computer software engineering often earn 1.4% higher than national averages. However, Chicago currently ranks 264 statewide for computer software engineering job salary. Professionals are advised to focus on high-growth sectors like to offset market challenges.

Based on HR-reported data: a national average with a geographic differential
computer software engineering Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $122,210 Chicago, IL January 01, 2026
25th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $132,571 Chicago, IL January 01, 2026
50th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $143,952 Chicago, IL January 01, 2026
75th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $156,353 Chicago, IL January 01, 2026
90th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $167,645 Chicago, IL January 01, 2026
25% $132,571 10% $122,210 90% $167,645 75% $156,353 $143,952 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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What is A computer software engineering ?

Computer software engineering is a dynamic field that involves the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software applications and systems. Professionals in this role typically possess strong programming skills, a solid understanding of algorithms, and knowledge of software development methodologies. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather requirements, create technical specifications, and implement solutions that meet user needs. Salaries for computer software engineers can vary widely based on factors such as experience, education, location, and the specific indus...

Source: (as of 06/04/2025). Read more from

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Job Openings for computer software engineering in Chicago, IL

Career Path for this job

  1. Down a level:

    Software Engineer II

    2 - 4 years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

  2. This Job:

    computer software engineering

    4 - 7 years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

  3. Up a level:

    Software Engineer IV

    7 + years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

Understand the total compensation opportunity for A computer software engineering, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
132571
156353
143952

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
143424
175944
158892
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of computer software engineering in Chicago, IL. The base salary for computer software engineering ranges from $132,571 to $156,353 with the average base salary of $143,952. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $143,424 to $175,944 with the average total cash compensation of $158,892.

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For a real-time salary target, tell us more about your role in the four categories below.

132571
156353

 

About Chicago, Illinois    Chicago (/ʃɪˈkɑːɡoʊ/ (listen), locally also /-ˈkɔː-/), officially the City of Chicago, is the most populous city in Illinois, as well as the third mos....More

Chicago, Illinois  area prices were up 0.8% from a year ago

computer software engineering Salary in popular cities: AuroraRockfordJoliet

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