Average Structural Iron and Steel Workers Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
Structural Iron and Steel Workers in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN metropolitan area command an impressive average annual salary of $98,650. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $69,120, indicating a robust local demand for these skilled professionals. The higher compensation in this region is likely driven by the concentration of large-scale construction projects and the specialized nature of the work required.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $98,650 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $121,870.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 2,640 Structural Iron and Steel Workers, the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area demonstrates a substantial presence in this trade. The Location Quotient of 1.4 suggests that this occupation is more concentrated here than the national average, pointing towards a healthy and potentially growing job market with consistent demand for skilled ironworkers.
Salary Overview
The average Structural Iron and Steel Workers in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN earns+42.7%above the national average.
$47.4
$1,897
$8,221
Structural Iron and Steel Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Structural Iron and Steel Workers in the Chicago area have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increased demand for infrastructure development, and the ongoing need for skilled tradespeople typically contribute to upward salary adjustments in this field.
Structural Iron and Steel Workers Salary Distribution in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN
The career trajectory for Structural Iron and Steel Workers typically involves significant salary increases with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and a proven track record can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the progression from apprentice to journeyman and eventually to master ironworker roles.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $65,680 | $31.6 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $73,988 | $35.6 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $102,950 | $49.5 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $123,313 | $59.3 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $121,870 | $58.6 |
Detailed Structural Iron and Steel Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$98,650
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$98,650
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $98,650 in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the higher nominal wages translate directly into equivalent purchasing power compared to the national average, making the compensation highly competitive and financially advantageous for those in the profession.
Job Market Context
2,640
Total Jobs
0.59
Per 1K Jobs
1.4
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.40, Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Structural Iron and Steel Workers roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.4 for Structural Iron and Steel Workers in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN signifies a notable concentration of these professionals compared to the national landscape. This suggests a competitive market where employers may need to offer attractive compensation packages to secure top talent, while also indicating a strong ecosystem of related industries and ongoing construction activity.
Nearby Job Markets
Hiring Structural Iron and Steel Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Structural Iron and Steel Workers make in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN?
The median annual salary for a Structural Iron and Steel Workers in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN is $98,650. This typically ranges from $65,680 for entry-level positions to $121,870 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 42.7% higher than the national median of $69,120.
Is Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN a lucrative place for Structural Iron and Steel Workerss?
Yes, it is a highly lucrative area for Structural Iron and Steel Workers.The average salary of $98,650 is significantly higher than the national average, and the cost of living is on par with the national average, offering excellent purchasing power.
Is Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN a good place to live for Structural Iron and Steel Workers?
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 salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for Structural Iron and Steel Workers in Chicago is $98,650, which is substantially higher than the national average of $69,120.
What is the concentration of Structural Iron and Steel Workers in Chicago?
The Location Quotient is 1.4, indicating that the concentration of Structural Iron and Steel Workers in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area is 40% higher than the national average.
Does the cost of living affect the Chicago salary?
No, the cost of living in Chicago is at the national average (100), meaning the higher salary offers excellent real value and purchasing power.
How many Structural Iron and Steel Workers are in the Chicago area?
There are approximately 2,640 Structural Iron and Steel Workers employed in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,640 employees in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN area with a job density of 0.59 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Structural Iron and Steel Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN