Tech Jobs in North Suburbs

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North Suburbs of Chicago—Evanston, Wilmette, Arlington Heights, and Schaumburg—are booming tech hubs thanks to proximity to downtown, excellent public transit, and a network of incubators like the Evanston Startup Zone.

Companies range from global giants—PayPal in Evanston, Cognizant, and Microsoft—to niche fintechs such as Plaid (Schaumburg) and health tech firms like Livongo (Evanston). The area also hosts a growing number of AI research labs and data analytics firms.

While the median home price in the North Suburbs sits around $410,000—lower than downtown Chicago's $600k—living costs remain high due to regional taxes and commuting expenses. Transparent salary data lets candidates compare roles against the true cost of living, ensuring they can afford the lifestyle they desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of tech jobs are available in the North Suburbs?
The region offers a wide spectrum of roles, including Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Product Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, DevOps Engineer, UX Designer, Cloud Architect, AI/ML Engineer, and Technical Program Manager. Startups often hire full‑stack developers, while larger firms focus on infrastructure and security.
How common are remote versus on‑site opportunities in the North Suburbs?
In 2024, about 60% of listings allow hybrid work, 25% are fully remote, and only 15% require strict on‑site presence. PayPal and Cognizant prioritize hybrid models, while certain product‑design roles in smaller firms remain on‑site.
Which major employers dominate the North Suburbs tech market?
Key employers include PayPal (Evanston), Cognizant (Evanston), Microsoft (Chicago), Sprinklr (Chicago), Plaid (Schaumburg), Livongo (Evanston), and research labs at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). These companies drive the majority of open positions.
What are the average salary expectations for tech roles in the North Suburbs?
Base salaries for software engineers average $112k, with total compensation typically $130k–$140k. Data scientists average $118k base, product managers $126k, and cybersecurity analysts $115k. Benefits packages usually include health insurance, 401(k) matching, and relocation assistance.
What actionable advice exists for relocating to the North Suburbs for tech work?
First, map commute options: the North Shore Line connects Evanston and Wilmette directly to downtown. Second, research neighborhood schools if you have children—Wilmette and Evanston are highly rated. Third, join local meetups like North Suburbs Women in Tech to network. Finally, negotiate relocation packages early, highlighting that the median home price is $410k and that a competitive salary will enable a comfortable lifestyle.

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