SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test) salaries in Chicago range from $114,000 to $348,000 in 2026. The mid-level median is $195,000, which is 20% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$114,000 – $156,000
Median: $135,000 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$162,000 – $228,000
Median: $195,000 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$240,000 – $348,000
Median: $294,000 · per year
Estimate your earning potential based on role, location, and experience.
Estimated SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test) Salary in Chicago, IL
Estimated†Median: $244,500 per year (adjusted for Chicago cost of living)
Junior
$135,000
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$195,000
3-5 yrs
Senior
$294,000
6+ yrs
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | $195,000 | high |
| New York, NY | $235,625 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $235,625 | very high |
| Houston, TX | $162,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $162,500 | moderate |
| Philadelphia, PA | $195,000 | high |