The Sovereign Outlook
Professionals operating as a Software Engineer in Chicago navigate a complex fiscal environment in 2025.The Midwest’s trading and private equity hub with comparatively moderate housing costs.
Based on our Chicago index, a gross annual compensation of $150,000 typically results in a net take-home pay of approximately $112,449. This equates to roughly $9,371 per month in disposable income before housing and living expenses.
Fiscal Context: United States
The United States employs a progressive federal tax system, with additional state and local taxes varying significantly by jurisdiction. Social Security and Medicare taxes are mandatory deductions.
Tax on next unit of currency
Mandatory contributions
Role Analysis: Software Engineer
Designs and builds software applications. Highly scalable income based on stack and seniority.
Salary Projection Table
| Gross Scenario | Net Outcome |
|---|---|
| $90,000 | $71,055 |
| $120,000 | $91,944 |
| $135,000 | $102,197 |
| $150,000 | $112,449 |
| $165,000 | $122,702 |
| $180,000 | $132,954 |
| $210,000 | $152,335 |
| $300,000 | $205,003 |
Career Path & Industry Context
The role of Software Engineer represents a critical position within the Tech sector, particularly in high-growth markets like Chicago. Professionals in this field typically require a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and industry-specific knowledge.
Designs and builds software applications. Highly scalable income based on stack and seniority.
The demand score of 87/100 indicates exceptionalmarket demand for this role in Chicago. This demand is driven by the city's status as a major business hub and concentration of leading companiesin the tech sector.
Cost of Living & Lifestyle Analysis
Understanding the true value of your salary requires analyzing purchasing power in Chicago. With a cost of living index of 56 and a rent index of 84, Chicago offers a balanced cost structure.
After all taxes and deductions
30% of net income guideline
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Software Engineer in Chicago?↓
How much will I take home as a Software Engineer in Chicago?↓
What factors affect my net salary as a Software Engineer in Chicago?↓
Is $150,000 a good salary for a Software Engineer in Chicago?↓
Methodology Note
Figures presented are estimates based on the 2025 fiscal year tax codes for United States. Actual tax liability depends on individual circumstances, filing status, and specific deductions.
View Full Methodology