TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Software Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$162,966/yr
Typical range: $136,892 – $216,482
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Software Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Software Engineer Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $117,060 | $9,755 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $144,603 | $12,050 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $162,966 | $13,581 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $188,673 | $15,723 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $254,778 | $21,232 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $319,505 | $26,625 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $335,687 | $27,974 | +187% |
Current Salary
$162,966
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $78/hr
Next Level Target
$188,673
Senior · 6
+$26Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
56/100
Moderate
+25% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Software Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Software Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $163K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Software Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $163K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $78/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Software Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Software Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $216K–$266K/yr.