All Systems Administrator dataJoin The Foundry
These figures are estimated from the national median for this role using a verified geographic cost-of-living multiplier for this metro area. Direct survey data is used where available.
Systems Administrator Salary in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin IL-IN-WI (2026)
Automation headwinds slowing growth; cloud migration skills essential.
Median Salary: $107,800
Range: $79K – $160K
CoL Tier: Moderate · 3-Year Trend: +2.5% · Source: BLS 2026; Robert Half (calculated)
Avg Total Comp
$126,500
Experience Level
Cloud-hybrid sysadmins command $10-15k over traditional roles.
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Transition Opportunity
Generalist salaries for Systems Administrator are stagnating as the market shifts toward specialized AI execution. Join The Foundry to pivot your career into high-growth technical tracks.