Retail Sales Associate Salary in Chicago, IL
Median: $17.22/hour ($35,820/year) — $410 (1%) above the national median. Range: $33,800–$38,380.
Last updated: 2026-07-04 · Source: BLS OEWS May 2025 · National Retail Sales Associate salary guide
The median Retail Sales Associate salary in Chicago, IL is $17.22/hour ($35,820/year) ($410 (1%) above the national median), with a typical range of $33,800–$38,380. Data from BLS + Jobeezy ghost-filter (2026).
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Median | $17.22/hour ($35,820/year) | BLS |
| Range | $33,800–$38,380 | BLS |
Retail Sales Associate Salary in Chicago vs. National Average
National median: $35,410/yr. Chicago is $410 (1%) above the national median.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 — Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN metro area (SOC 41-2031, Retail Sales Associate).
Retail Sales Associate pay in Chicago, IL — common questions
- How much does a Retail Sales Associate make in Chicago, IL?
- The median Retail Sales Associate salary in Chicago, IL is $17.22/hour ($35,820/year) ($410 (1%) above the national median), with a typical range of $33,800–$38,380 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
- Is Chicago a strong pay market for Retail Sales Associates?
- At a $35,820 median, Chicago is $410 (1%) above the national median. The U.S. median is $35,410. Jobeezy shows you which local employers actually pay at the top of that band before you apply.
- How can I earn more as a Retail Sales Associate in Chicago?
- Target employers paying toward the $38,380 (75th-percentile) mark and anchor your negotiation to the BLS band. Jobeezy fit-scores Retail Sales Associate openings in Chicago and auto-applies, so you reach more high-paying employers fast.
Retail Sales Associate salary in nearby markets
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