Chicago sub-market · Rank #4 of 10 for this discipline
Systematic macro in Chicago
What is the systematic macro market like in Chicago?
Chicago is a secondary centre for systematic macro, with demand concentrated in a smaller set of desks. Systematic macro takes rules-based positions across currencies, rates, commodities and equity indices based on macroeconomic and trend signals. Horizons are long, capacity is high, and London is the global centre. Typical holding horizon is weeks to months, hiring concentrates on quant researcher, systematic portfolio manager, quant developer, and 7 of the firms we track run a Chicago desk. Pay sits at roughly 97% of the New York benchmark for the equivalent role and seniority, quoted in USD.
Systematic macro compensation in Chicago
Mid-level total compensation for the roles this discipline hires, in USD.
| Role | Range | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Quant Researcher | $223k – $2.4m | $461k |
| Systematic Portfolio Manager | $485k – $15m | $1.2m |
| Quant Developer | $175k – $1.2m | $330k |
Methodology
Figures are expressed as annual total compensation (base salary plus expected performance bonus) in the reference market's local currency, converted from a US dollar base. They describe typical market ranges rather than any individual offer, and exclude sign-on payments, deferred equity and carried interest. Portfolio-manager figures reflect formulaic profit-share arrangements and are therefore far more dispersed than any other role.
KnowQaunt 2026.1 · Updated September 2026
These are indicative ranges pending first-party verification. They will be replaced by verified submissions as the Quant Salary Index dataset builds.
Chicago · Systematic macro · KnowQaunt 2026.1