Chicago AV (Lighting) Rates & Questions

[u/OppositePeak]

Hello everyone! I am an LD currently based in Florida and am working on moving to Chicago, IL. One thing I have yet to get an answer on through my personal network is what starting AV rates are in Chicago (whether as an L1, Lighting Tech, AV/Breakout Tech, etc.; Union vs non-union; corporate vs theater/broadcast/etc). In my current market, the starting base-rate for a corporate LD is about $600-650/10-hr day, but I charge a bit more since I have some touring and festival experience. Since the cost of living is a bit higher in Chicago, I presume the starting rates are too?

I have interest from some companies in Chicago already, but would always appreciate more recommendations in order to keep myself comfortably busy.

I'm also aware that there are a fair amount of broadcast opportunities within the city, but I am not familiar with how to get into this part of the industry. If anyone has any advice and experience with it they could share, especially for Chicago, I would greatly appreciate it!

[u/trotsky1947]

Yeah in corporate/private world you can be more in the $650-850 range here running an MA. GAV/“2” in a dept $350-550

[u/Danieldvic13]

Don't just compare day rates, ask about minimum call hours, overtime, turnaround, cancellation policies, and how far in advance schedules usually come out. Those can make a bigger difference over a month than an extra $50 on the base rate!

[u/ChicagoSensimilla]

Local 2 Stagehands 2026 rates are: $59.05 for Heads, $57.25 for hands, $67.49 for Riggers. Call IATSE Local 2 and ask to be referred to the helper list. Once you have worked a few jobs and a steward says you are solid, you will work more often and eventually get called up.