Overview Salaries

Salaries in Boulder, CO

Updated on May 10, 2026
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What is the average salary in Boulder, CO?

The average salary in Boulder, CO is $79,100 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $79,100 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $6,592 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $1,521 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $38 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Boulder, CO offers a vibrant job market with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $79,100, reflecting a strong economy. Various industries provide attractive compensation packages to attract talent.

Salaries range widely, accommodating different career levels and specializations. For instance, entry-level positions start around $33,250, while senior roles can go up to $225,000. This variety ensures that professionals can find roles that match their experience and skill sets.

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What are the best paying jobs in Boulder, CO?

Looking for top-paying jobs in Boulder, CO? Several fields offer excellent salary potential. General dentists, solutions architects, and architects often earn six-figure salaries. These roles provide stability and financial rewards in a vibrant city known for its quality of life. The tech and healthcare sectors also lead in compensation. Software engineers, product managers, and systems engineers find lucrative opportunities in Boulder. These positions demand specialized skills but offer high earning potential. Nurse practitioners and pharmacists enjoy good salaries as well, reflecting their critical roles in healthcare. Dental hygienists and principal engineers also provide strong income opportunities. These jobs combine technical skills with the chance to make a significant impact in the community.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Boulder, CO, highlighting General Dentist with the highest at $309,231 and Dental Hygienist with the lowest at $124,425.

  1. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $309,231
    This role involves diagnosing and treating dental problems. Dentists use advanced technology to care for patients. Many dental clinics in Boulder offer modern equipment and welcoming environments.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Boulder, CO


  2. Solutions Architect
    Average Salary: $191,914
    Solutions architects design and implement IT systems. They work closely with teams to create solutions that meet business needs. Many tech companies in Boulder, like Google and Salesforce, value skilled solutions architects.
    Find Solutions Architect jobs in Boulder, CO


  3. Architect
    Average Salary: $180,296
    Architects design and oversee construction projects. They ensure buildings are functional and beautiful. In Boulder, architects often focus on eco-friendly designs and sustainability.
    Find Architect jobs in Boulder, CO


  4. Principal Engineer
    Average Salary: $169,544
    Principal engineers lead development teams. They design and implement complex systems. Companies in Boulder, like Rapid7 and MongoDB, need skilled engineers to drive innovation.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO


  5. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $153,463
    Software engineers build and test software. They work on a range of applications. Boulder's tech companies often seek engineers with strong coding skills and problem-solving abilities.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO


  6. Product Manager
    Average Salary: $150,418
    Product managers oversee product development. They work with cross-functional teams. Many tech firms in Boulder need managers who can lead and coordinate effectively.
    Find Product Manager jobs in Boulder, CO


  7. Systems Engineer
    Average Salary: $140,726
    Systems engineers manage and maintain IT systems. They ensure systems run smoothly. Companies in Boulder, such as T-Mobile and Vail Resorts, rely on skilled systems engineers.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO


  8. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $138,163
    Nurse practitioners provide primary care. They diagnose and treat conditions. Boulder's healthcare facilities often seek practitioners who can deliver high-quality care.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Boulder, CO


  9. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $136,040
    Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise patients. They ensure medications are safe and effective. In Boulder, pharmacists often work in community settings, offering personalized care.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Boulder, CO


  10. Dental Hygienist
    Average Salary: $124,425
    Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients. They work alongside dentists. Many dental practices in Boulder offer a collaborative environment with modern facilities.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Boulder, CO

What are the best paying jobs in Boulder, CO without a degree?

Boulder, CO offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a degree. Restaurant managers, for example, earn an average of $60,860 a year. These managers oversee daily operations and ensure customer satisfaction. Irrigation technicians also find good opportunities, with an average salary of $60,136. Service team members and kitchen managers can earn around $50,000 annually. These roles focus on customer service and kitchen operations, respectively. Other positions such as landscaper and groundskeeper offer salaries around $48,000. These jobs involve maintaining outdoor areas, making them suitable for those who enjoy working outdoors.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Boulder, CO without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $60,860 and Meat Cutter with the lowest at $40,147.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $60,860
    Manage daily operations. Oversee staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in a bustling dining environment.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Boulder, CO


  2. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $60,136
    Design and maintain irrigation systems. Ensure efficient water use. Serve clients in a scenic setting.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Boulder, CO


  3. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $50,432
    Provide excellent service. Assist customers with their needs. Work in a dynamic food service environment.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Boulder, CO


  4. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $49,389
    Supervise kitchen staff. Ensure food quality and safety. Coordinate with chefs and servers for smooth operations.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Boulder, CO


  5. Seafood Team Member
    Average Salary: $48,667
    Prepare and serve seafood dishes. Maintain kitchen cleanliness. Serve customers with a focus on fresh, quality seafood.
    Find Seafood Team Member jobs in Boulder, CO


  6. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $48,075
    Maintain and design outdoor spaces. Use tools to plant and trim plants. Work in picturesque landscapes.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Boulder, CO


  7. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $44,246
    Maintain park and recreational areas. Perform landscaping tasks. Ensure a clean and safe environment.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Boulder, CO


  8. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $43,777
    Clean and maintain facilities. Follow safety protocols. Ensure a welcoming environment.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Boulder, CO


  9. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $41,379
    Prepare food quickly and efficiently. Follow recipes and maintain quality. Work under pressure in a fast-paced kitchen.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Boulder, CO


  10. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $40,147
    Cut and package meat. Maintain cleanliness and safety. Provide high-quality cuts to customers.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Boulder, CO

Which companies offer the top salaries in Boulder, CO?

Looking for top-paying jobs in Boulder, CO, several companies stand out for their competitive salaries. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Workday offer average salaries that exceed $160,000. For instance, Amazon pays an average of about $186,667, making it one of the highest paying jobs in the area. Other notable employers include Apple, KPMG, and Northrop Grumman, all offering salaries that range from $130,000 to $185,000. SciTec, Ascend Analytics, BAE Systems, and Blue Canyon Technologies also provide attractive compensation packages. These companies show that Boulder offers many opportunities for job seekers looking for good pay.
Graph displaying company salaries in Boulder, CO, highlighting Amazon.com with the highest at $186,667 and Blue Canyon Technologies with the lowest at $122,293.

  1. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $186,667
    Amazon offers a wide range of career opportunities. It is known for its innovative culture and diverse work environment.


  2. Google
    Average Salary: $185,657
    Google provides exciting roles in technology and innovation. The company is a leader in internet-related services and products.


  3. Workday
    Average Salary: $181,448
    Workday offers jobs in human capital management and financial management software. The company is well-regarded for its employee-first culture.


  4. Apple
    Average Salary: $179,088
    Apple provides jobs in tech, design, and retail. The company is famous for its cutting-edge products and creative culture.


  5. KPMG
    Average Salary: $164,720
    KPMG offers careers in audit, tax, and advisory services. It is a global network known for its professional services.


  6. Northrop Grumman
    Average Salary: $143,730
    Northrop Grumman provides jobs in aerospace and defense. The company is a leader in technology and defense systems.


  7. SciTec
    Average Salary: $132,222
    SciTec offers opportunities in scientific and technical fields. The company focuses on innovative solutions.


  8. Ascend Analytics
    Average Salary: $129,657
    Ascend Analytics provides jobs in data analytics and consulting. The company helps businesses make data-driven decisions.


  9. BAE Systems
    Average Salary: $125,056
    BAE Systems offers careers in defense, aerospace, and security. The company is a leader in military technology.


  10. Blue Canyon Technologies
    Average Salary: $122,293
    Blue Canyon Technologies provides jobs in aerospace and satellite technology. The company focuses on innovative space solutions.

How does the cost of living in Boulder, CO compare to the national average?

Boulder, CO, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Boulder stands at 132, which is 32% above the national benchmark of 100. This increase is primarily driven by higher housing costs, which are 70% over the average, and groceries, which are 20% higher. Utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses in Boulder also exceed the national average by 10%, 5%, 30%, and 15%, respectively. These figures illustrate the financial considerations job seekers must weigh when exploring opportunities in Boulder, CO.
Cost of living comparison graph for Boulder, CO vs. Nationwide: housing 70% higher, groceries 20% higher, utilities 10% higher, transportation 5% higher, healthcare 30% higher, miscellaneous 15% higher.

The cost of living in Boulder, Colorado, exceeds the nationwide average across most categories, according to recent data. Housing costs in Boulder are notably higher, with an index of 170 compared to the national average of 100. This means that expenses for housing are 70% more than the average for the rest of the country. Such high housing costs can significantly impact potential residents, especially when considering long-term expenses.


Other areas such as groceries and healthcare also show higher costs in Boulder. Groceries have a cost of living index of 120, which is 20% above the national average. Similarly, healthcare costs are 30% higher, with an index of 130. While utilities and transportation have slightly elevated costs—110 and 105, respectively—they still remain relatively manageable compared to housing and groceries. The miscellaneous category, with an index of 115, suggests minor additional expenses. Overall, job seekers must weigh these costs against potential salary increases and lifestyle improvements when considering relocating to Boulder.

There are 1,480 job openings in Boulder, CO, today!

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Boulder, CO
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