H-1B Data Scientist Salary in Illinois (2024)
Prevailing wages, top employers, and LCA data for H-1B data scientists in Illinois.
Key Notes for Illinois
Trading and FinTech
CME Group, Citadel, and Jump Trading sponsor DS/quant H-1B holders at premium wages. Trading firm DS roles in Chicago often pay Level IV ($140K+).
Insurance Analytics
Allstate and Discover Financial are top-volume H-1B DS sponsors in Illinois. Insurance data science (actuarial crossover, pricing models) is a distinctive Illinois niche.
University of Chicago
UChicago and Northwestern Kellogg produce significant data science talent. Cap-exempt research roles at both institutions exist for DS PhDs.
Consulting Bias
Accenture, Deloitte, and McKinsey have large Chicago analytics practices. Consulting DS H-1B wages tend to be Level II, below product company rates.
Top H-1B Employers
- Accenture
- Allstate
- United Airlines
- Discover Financial
- Morningstar
- CME Group
- Groupon
- Uptake
- Zebra Technologies
- Walgreens
Top Cities in Illinois
- Chicago
- Schaumburg
- Lisle
- Naperville
- Downers Grove
- Rosemont
- Bloomington
- Peoria
- Rockford
- Evanston
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prevailing wage for H-1B data scientists in Illinois?
DOL prevailing wages for Data Scientists (SOC 15-2051) in Chicago MSA range from ~$74K (Level I) to ~$132K (Level IV). Median LCA wage is approximately $105,000.
Do trading firms in Chicago sponsor data scientists on H-1B?
Yes. CME Group, Citadel, Two Sigma (Chicago office), and Jump Trading sponsor DS and quantitative analyst roles on H-1B. These positions are highly competitive but offer Level IV wages well above Chicago's median.
Is Chicago a good market for H-1B data scientists without a PhD?
Yes, for industry DS roles. Consulting firms, insurance companies, and airlines hire MS-level DS H-1B holders regularly. PhD is more important for trading firms and research-focused roles.
How does Illinois compare to other Midwest states for H-1B data scientists?
Illinois leads the Midwest in DS H-1B volume. Ohio (Nationwide, JPMorgan Columbus) and Minnesota (UnitedHealth, Target) are smaller but active markets.
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