ProductDesignJobs.io
Updated 2026

Product Design Lead Salary in Chicago 2026

Average Base
$155,000
+4.2% from 2025
Typical Range
$120,000 — $200,000
10th - 90th percentile
Total Comp
~$186,000
Includes Equity/Bonus

Explore Product Design Lead roles in Chicago, IL with companies that are actively scaling their product design teams. Hybrid and remote-friendly options are common, giving designers flexibility while staying connected to local teams. Experience with Figma, prototyping, and usability testing remains a core expectation. Top companies in Chicago, IL look for designers who can balance speed with rigor.

Designers who can pair research with strategy typically earn above the city median. Companies value designers who can translate insights into measurable product outcomes. Salaries vary by seniority and company stage, but top performers can earn well above the local median. Use this page to compare roles, explore salary benchmarks, and connect with companies hiring in Chicago, IL. Bookmark this page and return weekly for the newest openings.

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$191,000
San Francisco$199,000
Seattle$184,000
Boston$177,000
Los Angeles$177,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What skills do Product Design Leads in Chicago, IL need most?
Hiring teams look for UX fundamentals, strong communication, and the ability to ship iterative improvements based on user feedback.
What is the average Product Design Lead salary in Chicago, IL?
The median salary depends on seniority and company stage, but most teams pay a competitive market rate for proven UX impact. Use the salary section on this page for up-to-date benchmarks and percentile ranges.
Are Product Design Lead roles in Chicago, IL mostly remote or on-site?
Many employers offer hybrid flexibility, with a mix of in-office collaboration and remote focus days. Fully remote roles are common for senior candidates, especially at distributed teams.