2024 wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Animal Scientists is a moderate occupation in Chicago, IL-IN-WI, with a median annual salary of $59,900. Animal Scientistss in Chicago, IL-IN-WI earn $19,220 less (24%) than the national median of $79,120. Experienced Animal Scientistss can expect to roughly double their starting salary over their career.
Animal Scientistss in Chicago, IL-IN-WI earn $19,220 less (24%) than the national median of $79,120.
The average salary ($72,030) is notably higher than the median — this means top earners pull the average up. A small number of highly paid Animal Scientistss skew the data.
Only 40 Animal Scientistss work in Chicago, IL-IN-WI. Consider nearby metro areas for more opportunities.
Cost of Living Consideration
Although Chicago, IL-IN-WI pays below the national average, the cost of living may also be lower. Your purchasing power could be comparable to higher-salary cities. Check local housing costs before deciding.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,240 | $4,187 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,880 | $4,490 |
| Median | $59,900 | $4,992 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,540 | $6,628 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,410 | $8,784 |
| Mean (Average) | $72,030 | $6,003 |
| Metro Area | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | $78,800 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | $76,560 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $60,290 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $59,900 |
| Occupation | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $182,830 |
| Lawyers | $166,090 |
| Financial Managers | $164,470 |
| Natural Sciences Managers | $161,340 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $159,110 |
| Marketing Managers | $158,800 |
| Computer Network Architects | $140,760 |
| Human Resources Managers | $137,760 |
| Managers, All Other | $137,040 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $135,120 |
Estimate your after-tax income. Compare your real purchasing power across different states and salary levels.
Annual Take-Home
$50,114
Monthly
$4,176
Bi-Weekly
$1,927
Effective Tax Rate
16.3%
* Estimate only. Does not include local taxes, deductions, or credits. Need help with your finances? Consider consulting a certified financial planner or exploring high-yield savings accounts to maximize your take-home pay.
Data verified March 2026 · Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Considering a move for this role? Compare cost of living in Chicago, IL-IN-WIto make an informed decision. Don't forget to factor in moving costs, renters insurance, and state income tax differences when evaluating your total compensation package.