Data Scientist Salary Chicago 2025

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Chicago: Full Breakdown

Chicago’s data science market reflects strong demand for analytical talent in a major Midwest tech hub. The $119,790 annual mean salary positions Chicago competitively within the Midwest region, though specific percentile breakdowns (10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles) are not available in the current dataset.

For context, data scientists in Chicago typically work across diverse industries including financial services, healthcare, e-commerce, and professional services. The city’s robust job market and lower cost of living compared to coastal tech centers like San Francisco and New York make it an attractive destination for data science professionals seeking both competitive compensation and affordability.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding Chicago’s cost of living relative to data scientist compensation is essential for evaluating the true value of a position in the city. While specific rent and housing data for Chicago is not available in the current dataset, the Midwest generally offers more favorable cost-of-living ratios compared to major coastal markets.

Chicago’s economy supports a diverse range of employers seeking data science expertise, from Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the Loop to innovative startups in emerging tech neighborhoods. The $119,790 annual mean salary reflects this competitive landscape while remaining accessible compared to positions in higher-cost-of-living markets.

The notable cities within the Chicago metropolitan area—including Naperville, Evanston, Schaumburg, Aurora, and Joliet—each offer varying cost-of-living profiles and employment opportunities for data scientists. Many professionals choose to live in suburban areas with lower housing costs while commuting to central Chicago offices or working remotely.

Salary Trend Over Time

Based on available BLS data, the data scientist salary in Chicago was recorded at $119,790 in 2024. This figure reflects the most recent comprehensive occupational wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Historical trend analysis would require data from prior years; interested professionals should monitor BLS OEWS releases for future year-over-year comparisons to track salary growth in this field.

The demand for data science expertise has remained consistently strong across the United States, and Chicago’s position as a major metropolitan center suggests stable or growing compensation trends. Professionals entering the field or considering relocation should monitor quarterly BLS updates for the most current compensation information.

Job Outlook

Data science continues to be one of the fastest-growing occupational fields in the United States. The role of data scientist (SOC 15-2051) encompasses professionals who design and develop databases, data collection systems, and analytical tools to support organizational decision-making.

Chicago’s diverse economic base—spanning finance, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and business services—creates substantial demand for data science talent. The metropolitan area’s established presence of major corporations, research institutions, and growing startups supports consistent job opportunities in the field.

Professionals considering data science careers in Chicago should note that the field typically requires:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or related field (many positions prefer advanced degrees)
• Skills: Programming proficiency (Python, R, SQL), statistical analysis, machine learning, data visualization, and business acumen
• Experience: Entry-level positions increasingly require some portfolio work or internship experience

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FAQ

What is the average data scientist salary in Chicago?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), the average data scientist salary in Chicago is $119,790 per year. This represents the mean compensation for professionals classified under SOC code 15-2051 in the Chicago metropolitan statistical area.

How does Chicago’s data scientist salary compare to other major cities?

While specific comparative data for other cities is not available in the current dataset, Chicago’s $119,790 annual mean salary is generally competitive within the Midwest region. Professionals should note that coastal markets like San Francisco and New York typically offer higher nominal salaries, though these are often offset by significantly higher costs of living. Chicago offers a balance of competitive compensation with more affordable housing and living expenses than major coastal tech hubs.

What skills and education do I need to become a data scientist in Chicago?

Data scientist positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, data science, or a related quantitative field. Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or advanced coursework. Essential technical skills include programming languages (Python and R are most common), SQL for database management, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization tools. Strong business communication skills are equally important, as data scientists must translate technical findings for non-technical stakeholders.

Is the data scientist job market growing in Chicago?

Yes. Data science remains one of the fastest-growing occupational fields nationally. Chicago’s diverse economy—with major employers in finance, healthcare, insurance, technology, and manufacturing—creates consistent demand for data science talent. The city’s position as a major metropolitan hub ensures ongoing opportunities for professionals in this field.

What industries in Chicago hire data scientists?

Chicago’s major employers of data scientists span multiple sectors:

• Financial Services: Major banks and financial institutions headquartered in the Loop
• Healthcare: Leading hospital systems and medical research organizations
• E-commerce & Retail: Distribution and logistics companies
• Insurance: Major insurance carriers with substantial data analytics needs
• Manufacturing: Industrial companies leveraging data for operations optimization
• Technology: Growing startup ecosystem and established tech companies

Should I relocate to Chicago for a data scientist position?

This depends on your current location, career stage, and personal preferences. Chicago offers competitive $119,790 average compensation combined with lower cost of living than coastal tech centers. The city provides excellent networking opportunities, diverse employer options, and a strong professional community. If you’re currently in a higher-cost market, relocation could significantly improve your financial position. If you’re in a lower-cost region, evaluate the salary increase against increased living expenses and quality-of-life factors.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. Occupational classification: Data Scientists (SOC 15-2051), Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA 16980).

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: This salary information is based on data from public sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics and is provided for informational purposes only. Actual compensation varies based on employer, experience, education, skills, and market conditions. This content is not financial or career advice. Always verify current salary data with recent job postings and official sources before making career decisions.