$18.34/hour
As of February 2026, the average starting cost of a dog walker in Chicago, IL is $18.34 per hour. The weekly rate for a dog walker in Chicago, IL is $734 for working a 40-hour week. And the monthly cost is approximately $2,384 for 130 hours of work.
Data is based on rates reported by service providers listed on Care.com. Last updated in February 2026.
The cost of hiring a dog walker in Chicago, IL is approximately 5% higher than Illinois average starting rate of $17.39 per hour and 12% higher than the national average of $16.44.
Location | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | $18.34/hr | $25.27/hr |
Illinois | $17.39/hr | $24.29/hr |
United States | $16.44/hr | $24.24/hr |
$18.34
$25.27
Chicago, IL
$17.39
$24.29
Illinois
$16.44
$24.24
US
Starting rate (avg)
Max rate (avg)
In some cases, nearby cities may offer more affordable dog walker services. When evaluating dog walker pay rates in Chicago, IL and its surrounding areas, it is essential to follow the minimum wage regulations and understand the proper way to pay legally. There are multiple benefits of paying legally that should be considered, such as tax deductions and fostering a professional employment relationship.
City | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| North Aurora, IL | $14.67/hr | $21.00/hr |
| Wilmette, IL | $15.00/hr | $23.20/hr |
| Lockport, IL | $15.14/hr | $23.71/hr |
| Buffalo Grove, IL | $15.20/hr | $21.90/hr |
| Rolling Meadows, IL | $15.31/hr | $23.31/hr |
You may pay more per hour for a dog walker near Chicago, IL and several factors can contribute to driving up the average rates. They include: higher cost of living, increased demand for dog walker services, a more competitive job market, and specific details surrounding your care needs (i.e. tasks, timeframe, frequency). As a result, it's important to consider these local factors when comparing dog walker rates and hiring a dog walker near Chicago, IL.
City | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Algonquin, IL | $22.88/hr | $29.25/hr |
| Barrington, IL | $22.43/hr | $30.86/hr |
| Highland Park, IL | $22.09/hr | $35.64/hr |
| Libertyville, IL | $21.71/hr | $32.00/hr |
| Lemont, IL | $21.33/hr | $24.67/hr |
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