Algonquin vs Chicago: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Algonquin, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Algonquin, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $60,803 | $63,046▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.23 | $30.32▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,266 | $40,637▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $51,850 | $61,219▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $77,828 | $78,878▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $94,245 | $100,414▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 9,240▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Algonquin.
The salary gap between Algonquin and Chicago is $2,243 (3.69%). Chicago's median is -2.30% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Algonquin spans $58,979,Chicago spans $59,777. Chicago has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced flight attendants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Algonquin ($62,619 effective) pays 2.89% more than Chicago ($60,858 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Algonquin if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,619)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,046/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($100,414)
- ✓Larger job market (9,240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Algonquin grew -11.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.2% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Algonquin, IL
$67,844 (2024) → $59,910 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$54,890 (2019) → $62,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Algonquin, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Comparisons
Written by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA
Career Analyst
Emily Johnson has 10 years of experience as a flight attendant. She specializes in passenger safety and service. She has worked for major airlines in the United States.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.49% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA, a licensed flight attendant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov