Rob Elgas is an Emmy Award-winning American journalist and news anchor, best known for co-anchoring ABC 7 Chicago’s top-rated evening newscasts. With more than two decades of experience, he has become one of the most trusted voices in Midwest broadcasting, admired for his professionalism, clarity, and community connection.
Rob Elgas’s journey from suburban Chicago to anchoring one of the nation’s most-watched local newscasts reflects resilience, dedication, and excellence. His career highlights include Emmy Awards, coverage of historic events, and recognition as one of Chicago’s most respected journalists.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1970s | Born in Arlington Heights, Illinois; raised in Crystal Lake |
| 1990s | Attended University of Illinois, studied broadcast journalism |
| Early 2000s | Began career in local television news |
| 2002 | Joined NBC 5 Chicago as anchor and reporter |
| 2015 | Joined ABC 7 Chicago as reporter and fill-in anchor |
| 2016 | Promoted to co-anchor of ABC 7’s 4 p.m. weekday newscast with Judy Hsu |
| 2023 | Promoted to co-anchor of ABC 7’s 10 p.m. newscast, Chicago’s top-rated late news |
| 2025 | Continues anchoring evening newscasts and reporting for ABC 7 Eyewitness News |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rob Elgas |
| Date of Birth | 1970s (exact year not publicly disclosed) |
| Age | Approx. late 40s–early 50s (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Arlington Heights, Illinois, USA |
| Raised In | Crystal Lake, Illinois |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in |
| Education | University of Illinois – Broadcast Journalism |
| Profession | Journalist, News Anchor |
| Employer | ABC 7 Chicago |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Children | Two |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–2 million |
| Salary | Estimated $90,000–$150,000 annually |
Early Life & Education
Rob Elgas was born in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and raised in Crystal Lake, giving him deep roots in the Chicago area. From a young age, he developed an interest in storytelling and communication.
He pursued higher education at the University of Illinois, where he studied broadcast journalism. His academic training prepared him for a career in reporting, blending technical skills with a passion for connecting with audiences.

Career Background
Elgas began his career in local television before joining NBC 5 Chicago in 2002, where he anchored the early afternoon news and reported for the late evening newscasts. His strong reporting skills and on-air presence quickly earned him recognition.
In July 2015, he joined ABC 7 Chicago as a reporter and fill-in anchor. Within a year, he was promoted to co-anchor the 4 p.m. weekday newscast alongside Judy Hsu.
In March 2023, Elgas was promoted again, this time to co-anchor the station’s 10 p.m. newscast, Chicago’s top-rated late news. He also anchors the station’s digital 6:30 p.m. newscast, reflecting his adaptability in both traditional and digital platforms.
Achievements
- Multiple Emmy Awards for excellence in journalism
- Coverage of major Chicago-area events, including severe weather, politics, and community stories
- Anchored top-rated newscasts at both NBC 5 and ABC 7 Chicago
- Recognized for building strong connections with Chicago viewers over more than two decades
- Promoted to anchor ABC 7’s flagship 10 p.m. newscast in 2023
Personal Life
Rob Elgas is married and has two children. He values family life while balancing the demands of a high-profile career.
His approachable personality and professionalism have made him not just a broadcaster, but a trusted friend to viewers across the Chicago area.
Salary & Net Worth
- Salary: Estimated $90,000–$150,000 annually
- Net Worth: Estimated $1–2 million, reflecting his long career in broadcast journalism
Legacy
Rob Elgas’s legacy lies in his commitment to local journalism and community service. For more than two decades, he has guided Chicago viewers through breaking news and local stories with professionalism and compassion.
His Emmy-winning career and long tenure at both NBC 5 and ABC 7 highlight his excellence in broadcasting. By combining journalistic rigor with relatability, Elgas has become a respected figure in Chicago media.
As he continues at ABC 7, Rob Elgas remains a symbol of resilience, professionalism, and community connection in American journalism.









