Updated 2026

Content Designer Salary in Chicago 2026

Average Base
$105,000
+4.2% from 2025
Typical Range
$75,000$150,000
10th - 90th percentile
Total Comp
~$126,000
Includes Equity/Bonus

Hiring momentum in Chicago, IL remains strong for Content Designer positions across growth, platform, and core product areas. Local teams are prioritizing user-centered design to improve retention and reduce churn. The strongest candidates demonstrate end-to-end ownership from discovery through delivery. Chicago, IL teams often prioritize collaboration across product, engineering, and go-to-market partners.

Median pay for Content Designer roles in Chicago, IL tends to track the local cost of living while rewarding specialized skills. Content Designers in Chicago, IL often collaborate across research, product strategy, and design systems. Many employers prefer designers who can partner closely with product managers and engineers. If you are exploring a move, Chicago, IL offers a mix of enterprise stability and startup growth. Use the filters below to compare roles by seniority, work type, and compensation range.

Salary Distribution

Cost of Living Analysis

Chicago has a cost of living index of 112, which can influence take-home value even when salaries appear higher. Consider housing, transportation, and tax differences when evaluating offers.

CityMedian
New York$130,000
San Francisco$135,000
Seattle$125,000
Boston$120,000
Los Angeles$120,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Which industries are hiring Content Designers in Chicago, IL?
Fintech, healthcare, SaaS, and consumer marketplaces are all hiring Content Designers in Chicago, IL. Enterprise teams also invest in UX to improve retention and satisfaction.
How competitive is the Content Designer job market in Chicago, IL?
Competition varies by specialization. Candidates with strong case studies and measurable outcomes stand out quickly in the hiring process.
What skills do Content Designers in Chicago, IL need most?
Hiring teams look for UX fundamentals, strong communication, and the ability to ship iterative improvements based on user feedback.