Chicago vs DeKalb: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Chicago, IL and DeKalb, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | DeKalb, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,520▲ | $87,488 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.25▲ | $42.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,948 | $63,650▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,977▲ | $70,881 |
| 75th Percentile | $121,176▲ | $111,985 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,700 | $135,607▲ |
| Total Employed | 17,720▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for electricians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to DeKalb.
The salary gap between Chicago and DeKalb is $17,032 (19.47%). Chicago's median is +61.97% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $75,752,DeKalb spans $71,957. Chicago has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Chicago ($100,893 effective) pays 11.98% more than DeKalb ($90,101 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,520/year)
- ✓Larger job market (17,720 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,893)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose DeKalb if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,607)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Chicago grew 20.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.2% growth in DeKalb over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$85,260 (2019) → $102,350 (2025)
DeKalb, IL
$82,225 (2024) → $85,672 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
DeKalb, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Chicago or DeKalb?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and DeKalb?
Should I relocate from Chicago to DeKalb as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Chicago vs DeKalb?
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Written by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst
Career Analyst
Samuel Carter has over 10 years of experience as an electrician. His focus includes residential wiring and safety standards. He has worked in various construction firms.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.12% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst, a licensed electrician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov