Chicago Metro Area Ranks 4th Among Top Tech Hubs

Tech sector growth has added over 250,000 direct and multiplier jobs in the region since 2013.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 1:47pm

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According to the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Chicago's tech sector has added 106,000 direct tech jobs from 2013 to 2023, representing about 8% of the city's workforce. The tech industry has also created an additional 147,000 multiplier jobs in the region. Illinois' information sector has led the nation, adding 5,800 jobs in the past 12 months.

Why it matters

The rapid growth of Chicago's tech industry has transformed the region into a major tech hub, attracting talent and investment. This expansion has had a significant economic impact, creating thousands of high-paying jobs and supporting additional employment across various industries.

The details

Chicago's tech sector has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, with the addition of 106,000 direct tech jobs from 2013 to 2023. This represents approximately 8% of the city's total workforce. The tech industry has also generated 147,000 multiplier jobs, further boosting the regional economy. Additionally, Illinois' information sector has outpaced the nation, adding 5,800 jobs in the last 12 months.

  • From 2013 to 2023, Chicago's tech sector added 106,000 direct tech jobs.
  • In the past 12 months, Illinois' information sector has added 5,800 jobs, leading the nation.

The players

Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

A business organization that represents the interests of the Chicago metropolitan area.

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The takeaway

Chicago's emergence as a leading tech hub has had a transformative impact on the regional economy, creating thousands of high-paying jobs and supporting additional employment across various industries. This growth positions the city as a major player in the tech industry, attracting talent and investment that will continue to drive economic development in the years to come.