Project Manager Salaries in Chicago, IL

The average salary for a Project Manager is USD 116,798 per year in Chicago, IL. Salaries estimates are based on 256328 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a Project Manager employees in Chicago, IL.

The highest salary for a Project Manager in Chicago, IL is USD 151,692 per year.

The lowest salary for a Project Manager in Chicago, IL is USD 90,864 per year.

Project manager salaries vary widely with experience, education, geography, industry and firm. This pay range reflects the varying career backgrounds of project managers, the range of job responsibilities, and the range of sectors in which they find employment. Candidates with higher education or certifications generally receive higher salaries. Highly experienced and specialized project managers can expect to see double the entry-level salary. Pay is expected to grow for all experience levels over the next decade, as the digital transformation pushes new firms to develop complex products which benefit from skilled oversight.

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Ratings on Glassdoor show that 72% of project managers feel satisfied with their salary. Factors that contribute to a good project manager's salary include five to eight years of experience, a Project Management Professional certification, and an additional $22,633.58 in potential pay a year.

Project managers' total pay can range anywhere from $72,540.22 to $190,664.02, varying due to factors such as experience, location, and industry. If you follow the typical project manager career path, you can expect an average total pay of around $116,798.48 after you build relevant experience. After that point, it's common to move on to titles such as principal and senior project manager.

Most project managers begin their careers with a bachelor's degree in fields such as business or business management. If you're looking to stand out and boost your salary, you can also pursue additional education and certifications and become a Certified Project Management Professional or a Certified Associate in Project Management.

It's also helpful to learn new skills that are in demand for project managers to increase your value with employers. Make sure you are fluent in the latest project management software tools and methods, feel comfortable managing budgets, and have strong communication skills to keep projects flowing between teams smoothly.

If you're being considered for a new project manager role or if you're looking for a raise at your current company, make sure to highlight your education, skills, and years of experience to get the best salary offer. Be ready with examples of concrete ways you've solved problems and made processes more efficient so that you can communicate your worth and boost your pay. It's also helpful to have an idea of what common project manager salaries are in your area so that the numbers you ask for don't seem out of line.

About 72.17% of Project Manager professionals feel satisfied with their salary, according to anonymous Glassdoor ratings. An additional $22,634 in potential pay per year, among other factors, can qualify the annual pay of a Project Manager in Chicago, IL as a good salary.

Project Manager professionals in Chicago, IL have a wide total pay range, between $72,540 and $190,664 depending on experience, with an estimated total pay of $116,798 following the average career path of a Project Manager.