What is the average salary in Boulder, CO?
Boulder, Colorado, offers attractive salary opportunities across various industries. Professionals in the area enjoy competitive pay, with an average yearly salary of $77,718. This figure reflects the high earning potential available in the region.
Salaries vary by industry, with some sectors offering particularly high earnings. For example, individuals in the technology and scientific fields often see the highest incomes. These top earners can make over $200,000 per year. Other notable high-paying fields include education, finance, and healthcare. Professionals in these areas also enjoy robust compensation packages.
What are the best paying jobs in Boulder, CO?

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General Dentist
Average Salary: $308,100
A General Dentist examines patients' teeth and gums. They treat cavities, perform cleanings, and educate patients. They work in private practices or clinics. Experienced dentists earn higher salaries.
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Solutions Architect
Average Salary: $189,605
A Solutions Architect designs and plans IT systems. They work with companies to find the best tech solutions. This role fits those with tech and business skills. Large firms and tech companies hire these experts.
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Architect
Average Salary: $178,994
An Architect designs buildings and other structures. They balance aesthetics with practicality. They work with clients and engineers. Top earners usually have advanced degrees and experience.
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Principal Engineer
Average Salary: $167,814
A Principal Engineer leads projects and teams. They make big decisions and solve complex problems. They often have years of experience. Tech and engineering companies value their skills.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $151,823
A Software Engineer develops software. They write code and fix bugs. They work in tech companies or software firms. Experience and skills in programming languages can boost earnings.
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Product Manager
Average Salary: $147,738
A Product Manager oversees the development of products. They work with teams to create new features. They need good communication and leadership skills. Tech and consumer goods companies hire them.
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Systems Engineer
Average Salary: $141,548
A Systems Engineer maintains and improves IT systems. They troubleshoot issues and manage hardware and software. They work in various industries. Experience and certifications can increase pay.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $137,561
A Nurse Practitioner provides healthcare services. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in hospitals or clinics. Additional training and certifications can lead to higher earnings.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $136,160
A Pharmacist dispenses medications and offers advice on their use. They work in pharmacies or hospitals. They must have a degree and pass exams. Experience can boost their salary.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $122,983
A Dental Hygienist cleans teeth and examines the mouth. They educate patients on oral health. They work in dental offices. They need a degree and license. Experience often leads to higher pay.
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What are the best paying jobs in Boulder, CO without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $61,543
Manage daily operations at local eateries. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Work with popular chains and local gems.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $58,829
Install and maintain irrigation systems. Serve landscaping companies and homeowners. Ensure efficient water use in gardens and parks.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $50,432
Provide excellent customer service at cafes and restaurants. Prepare and serve food and drinks. Work with fast-paced teams to meet customer needs.
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Seafood Team Member
Average Salary: $48,538
Prepare and serve seafood dishes at popular seafood restaurants. Work in a fast-paced environment. Serve a variety of local and international seafood options.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $48,376
Oversee kitchen staff and operations in dining establishments. Ensure food quality and safety. Coordinate with chefs and servers for smooth service.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $44,946
Maintain outdoor spaces for homes and businesses. Plant flowers, trees, and shrubs. Use hand and power tools to shape gardens and lawns.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $44,274
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and resorts. Ensure a high standard of cleanliness. Work with other staff to provide excellent guest experiences.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $44,196
Maintain parks and public spaces. Mow lawns, trim trees, and clean areas. Work outdoors to keep spaces attractive and safe.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $41,346
Prepare ingredients and cook meals in fast-paced kitchens. Work under pressure to meet orders. Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure timely service.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $39,811
Slice and package meat for grocery stores. Ensure portion sizes and quality. Work with fresh and frozen meat to meet customer needs.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Boulder, CO?

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Google
Average Salary: $186,081
Google, a tech giant, offers cutting-edge projects and a culture of innovation. Their benefits include health care, vacation time, and a retirement plan.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $183,530
Amazon is a leading e-commerce and cloud computing company. They offer a range of benefits like health care, retirement plans, and vacation time.
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Workday
Average Salary: $179,679
Workday provides cloud-based software for finance and human resources. They offer competitive salaries and benefits, including health care and vacation time.
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Apple
Average Salary: $176,932
Apple is a tech company known for its innovative products. They offer health care, retirement plans, and vacation time to their employees.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $158,957
KPMG is a professional services company with a focus on audit, tax, and advisory. They offer a range of benefits, including health care and retirement plans.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $141,985
Northrop Grumman is a defense and aerospace company. They offer benefits like health care, retirement plans, and vacation time.
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Ascend Analytics
Average Salary: $132,812
Ascend Analytics provides data analytics and consulting services. They offer health care and vacation time to their employees.
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SciTec
Average Salary: $130,653
SciTec is a tech company that offers data analytics and consulting services. They provide health care and vacation time to their employees.
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BAE Systems
Average Salary: $123,408
BAE Systems is a defense and aerospace company. They offer a range of benefits, including health care and retirement plans.
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Blue Canyon Technologies
Average Salary: $121,913
Blue Canyon Technologies provides space technology and services. They offer health care and vacation time to their employees.
How does the cost of living in Boulder, CO compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Boulder, CO, significantly exceeds the national average in several key areas, notably housing. The housing index in Boulder stands at 197, which is almost double the nationwide average of 100. This means that housing costs in Boulder are nearly twice as high as the average across the U.S. Despite this, Boulder's grocery costs are slightly higher than average at 115, while utilities and transportation costs closely match the national average, coming in at 101 and 107, respectively. Additionally, healthcare and miscellaneous expenses in Boulder are slightly above the national average but not dramatically so, with indices of 104 and 110, respectively.
Boulder offers a unique lifestyle that attracts many, but it comes with a higher price tag. The overall cost of living index in Boulder is elevated due to its housing index, which outpaces the national average by 97%. Job seekers must consider these costs when planning to relocate. Although some expenses, like groceries and utilities, are comparable to national averages, the high housing costs can be a significant factor in overall living expenses. This information helps job seekers make informed decisions about whether Boulder’s cost of living aligns with their budget and lifestyle expectations.



