Chicago vs Normal: Welder Salary (2026)
Compare welder 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 | $54,751▲ | $50,440 |
| Hourly Rate | $26.32▲ | $24.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,691▲ | $35,885 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,116▲ | $42,826 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,214▲ | $58,910 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $77,421▲ | $72,017 |
| Total Employed | 9,320▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for welders, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Normal.
The salary gap between Chicago and Normal is $4,311 (8.55%). Chicago's median is -2.05% compared to the US national median of $55,895.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $36,730,Normal spans $36,132. 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 ($52,851 effective) pays 1.74% more than Normal ($51,946 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 ($54,751/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($77,421)
- ✓Larger job market (9,320 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $52,851)
- ✓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, welder salaries in Chicago grew 21.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -11.2% growth in Normal over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$43,180 (2019) → $52,650 (2025)
Normal, IL
$54,602 (2024) → $48,505 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Normal, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays welders more: Chicago or Normal?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Normal?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Normal as a welder?
What do entry-level welders earn in Chicago vs Normal?
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Written by James Mendoza, AWS Certified Welder
Career Analyst
James has over 10 years of experience in welding. He specializes in MIG and TIG welding. He has worked in various manufacturing settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.99% 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 James Mendoza, AWS Certified Welder, a licensed welder with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov