Photographer Salary in Chicago, IL (2026)
Find Salaries by Job Title, State & City
Photographer
Median Annual Salary
$36,480
$3,040/month
Salary Distribution
United States
$44,615
Illinois
$36,194
Chicago, IL
$36,480
Salary Overview
Professionals working as a Photographer in Chicago, IL can expect a range of salary opportunities. The median annual salary is $36,480. This figure reflects the compensation landscape for this role in the area. Earnings typically range from $30,420 at the entry level to $72,280 for top earners, depending on experience, skills, and employer.
Job seekers pursuing Photographer positions should consider factors such as industry sector, company size, and local cost of living when evaluating opportunities. Those with specialized certifications or advanced experience may command salaries at the higher end of this range.
Related Jobs in Chicago, IL
These are jobs in the same occupation category as Photographer in Chicago, IL. Compare median salaries across related roles.
Art Director
Range: $62,320 - $173,140
$100,250
median
Technical Writer
Range: $48,520 - $127,770
$83,450
median
Broadcast Technician
Range: $35,010 - $130,440
$81,130
median
Animator
Range: $62,320 - $127,240
$78,300
median
Film Director
Range: $43,590 - $166,570
$76,950
median
Designer
Range: $42,880 - $141,070
$75,570
median
Public Relations Specialist
Range: $39,820 - $120,000
$71,180
median
Industrial Designer
Range: $50,290 - $101,100
$67,360
median
Music Director
Range: $40,880 - $104,000
$66,190
median
Editor
Range: $38,200 - $107,010
$64,800
median
Related Salary Calculations in Illinois
Curious about your take-home pay? Use our tax calculator to see how much you'd actually earn after federal and Illinois state taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Photographer in Chicago, IL?
The median annual salary for a Photographer in Chicago, IL is $36,480. Salaries typically range from $30,420 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $72,280 for top earners (90th percentile).
What is the salary range for Photographer in Chicago, IL?
Photographer salaries in Chicago, IL range from $30,420 to $72,280. The 25th percentile earns $31,640, while the 75th percentile earns $55,600.
How much does a Photographer make per month in Chicago, IL?
Based on the median annual salary of $36,480, a Photographer in Chicago, IL makes approximately $3,040 per month before taxes.
What jobs are similar to Photographer?
Related occupations include Art Director, Technical Writer, Broadcast Technician. The highest paying related job is Art Director with a median salary of $100,250.
Other Salaries in Chicago, IL
Salary data is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and may not reflect the most recent market conditions. Actual salaries may vary based on experience, company size, and other factors. contact us if you have any questions.