Chicago vs Normal: Data Analyst Salary (2026)
Compare data analyst salaries between Chicago, IL and Normal, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,976▲ | $65,035 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.60▲ | $31.27 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,302▲ | $37,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,570▲ | $46,825 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,417▲ | $83,244 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,925▲ | $100,803 |
| Total Employed | 7,940▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for data analysts, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Normal.
The salary gap between Chicago and Normal is $6,941 (10.67%). Chicago's median is -10.47% compared to the US national median of $80,394.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $65,623,Normal spans $63,083. 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 ($69,478 effective) pays 3.73% more than Normal ($66,977 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 ($71,976/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,925)
- ✓Larger job market (7,940 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,478)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Normal if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, data analyst salaries in Chicago grew -30.9% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -42.5% growth in Normal over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$99,740 (2021) → $68,890 (2025)
Normal, IL
$108,262 (2024) → $62,246 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Normal, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays data analysts more: Chicago or Normal?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Normal?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Normal as a data analyst?
What do entry-level data analysts earn in Chicago vs Normal?
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Written by Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience in data analysis. She specializes in business intelligence and works at a tech consulting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.48% 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 Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst, a licensed data analyst with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov