Average Commercial Pilots Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
Commercial Pilots in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN metropolitan area command an impressive average annual salary of $195,120. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $144,150, indicating a strong demand and potentially higher operational costs or specialized needs within this bustling hub. The concentration of aviation activity and the economic drivers unique to the region likely contribute to this elevated compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $195,120 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $292,680.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 640 Commercial Pilots, the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area demonstrates a substantial presence in this field. The Location Quotient of 0.43 suggests that while the concentration is below the national average, the absolute number of professionals indicates a robust and active job market. This signifies a consistent need for skilled pilots to support the region's aviation infrastructure and commercial operations.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN earns+35.4%above the national average.
$93.8
$3,752
$16,260
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing demand for air travel, advancements in aviation technology, and the ongoing need for experienced professionals likely contribute to upward pressure on compensation, ensuring competitive pay for those in the field.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
Salary progression for Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin is strongly tied to experience and specialization. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned pilots with extensive flight hours, advanced ratings, and experience in complex aircraft operations can earn significantly more. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries, often reflected in percentile data, clearly signifies the career advancement and increased earning potential available through dedication and skill development.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $70,330 | $33.8 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $146,340 | $70.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $160,780 | $77.3 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $243,900 | $117.3 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $292,680 | $140.7 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$195,120
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$195,120
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $195,120 for Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average. While the high salary is attractive, residents will find that their earnings are balanced by the typical cost of goods and services in the area, making it neither exceptionally expensive nor inexpensive relative to the rest of the country.
Job Market Context
640
Total Jobs
0.144
Per 1K Jobs
0.43
Location Quotient
At 0.43x, Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN has a notably lower concentration of Commercial Pilots jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
The Location Quotient of 0.43 for Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin indicates that the concentration of these professionals is less than half of the national average. This suggests that while there is a significant absolute number of pilots, the market is not saturated compared to national benchmarks. This could imply a competitive environment for new entrants but also a stable demand for experienced professionals, as the specialized nature of the role may require specific regional expertise or certifications.
Nearby Job Markets
Hiring Commercial Pilotss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is $195,120. This typically ranges from $70,330 for entry-level positions to $292,680 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is 35.4% higher than the national median of $144,150.
Is Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, it is a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots.Commercial Pilots in this region earn a substantial $195,120 annually, significantly above the national average. This high compensation is balanced by a cost of living that is right at the national average.
Is Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
The Cost of Living Index in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does the Chicago Commercial Pilot salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin is $195,120, which is considerably higher than the national average of $144,150.
What is the job market like for Commercial Pilots in Chicago?
The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area has a solid presence of 640 Commercial Pilots. While the concentration (Location Quotient) is below the national average, the absolute number suggests a robust and active job market.
Does the cost of living affect the purchasing power of a Chicago Commercial Pilot's salary?
No, the cost of living in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin is exactly at the national average (100). Therefore, the high salary of $195,120 offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average.
How many Commercial Pilots are there in the Chicago area?
There are approximately 640 Commercial Pilots employed within the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan statistical area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 640 employees in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN area with a job density of 0.144 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN