Denver Metro Area Salary Guide 2026
Comprehensive salary data, cost of living, top industries, and career opportunities in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan area. Updated with 2026 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data.
Average Salary
$101,494
per year
Cost of Living
105.4
5.4% above avg
Population
3.0M
metro area
Unemployment
3.2%
rate
About the Denver Metro Area
The Denver metropolitan area has emerged as a top destination for professionals seeking outdoor lifestyle combined with strong career opportunities. The Mile High City attracts companies and workers with its educated workforce, growing technology sector, and exceptional quality of life. The region offers a balanced approach with competitive salaries, moderate costs, and world-class outdoor recreation.
The Denver Metro Area has a population of approximately 2,963,821 residents and a median household income of $82,611. The region's cost of living index of 105.4 indicates living costs are 5% above the national average.
Top Industries in Denver
Salary Ranges by Occupation in Denver
Salary data for popular occupations in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area. All figures based on 2026 Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
| Occupation | Entry Level (10th) | Median | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $85,680 | $138,920 | $198,920 |
| Aerospace Engineer | $85,680 | $118,920 | $168,450 |
| Data Scientist | $82,450 | $118,920 | $172,680 |
| Software Developer | $75,680 | $112,450 | $168,920 |
| Financial Analyst | $58,920 | $88,920 | $135,680 |
| Physical Therapist | $72,450 | $88,920 | $112,680 |
| Registered Nurse | $62,680 | $82,450 | $108,920 |
| Electrician | $45,680 | $62,450 | $88,920 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2026. Employment figures represent estimated workers in the metro area.
Economy Overview
Denver has diversified into a significant technology and aerospace hub. The aerospace and defense sector is anchored by Lockheed Martin and Ball Corporation. The technology sector has grown substantially with both startups and established companies. Financial services, particularly fintech, have expanded with Charles Schwab and other firms. The energy sector, both traditional and renewable, maintains significant presence. Healthcare is a major employer with multiple large hospital systems.
Major Employers in Denver
Cost of Living in Denver
Denver has moderate-to-high living costs that have risen substantially in recent years. Median home prices hover around $500,000, while apartment rents average $1,600-$2,000 for one-bedrooms. Colorado has a flat income tax rate of 4.4%. Overall, Denver offers better value than coastal metros while providing strong career opportunities.
Cost of Living Index
105.4
100 = national average
Median Household Income
$82,611
per year
Purchasing Power
$96,294
COL-adjusted avg salary
Job Market Insights
Denver offers strong employment opportunities across technology, healthcare, and professional services. The job market benefits from population growth that brings both talent and companies. Technology hiring is robust, with particular strength in aerospace tech and fintech. Healthcare employment grows with the expanding population. The outdoor lifestyle attracts younger workers, creating a dynamic and educated workforce.
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
Jobs in Sample Occupations
157,360
Quality of Life in Denver
Denver offers exceptional quality of life with 300 days of sunshine, easy access to world-class skiing and hiking, and a vibrant urban core. The cultural scene includes excellent restaurants, breweries, and outdoor events. The city is relatively walkable with expanding public transit. The combination of urban amenities and outdoor access attracts active professionals seeking work-life balance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denver Salaries
What is the average salary in Denver?
The average salary in the Denver Metro Area is approximately $101,494 per year across the occupations we track. However, salaries vary significantly by occupation, with the highest-paying role (Marketing Manager) earning $138,920 median and entry-level positions starting around $45,680.
What are the highest paying jobs in Denver?
The highest paying occupations in the Denver Metro Area include Marketing Manager ($138,920), Aerospace Engineer ($118,920), Data Scientist ($118,920). Top earners in the 90th percentile can make $198,920 or more annually.
How does the cost of living in Denver affect salaries?
The Denver Metro Area has a cost of living index of 105.4, which is 5.4% above the national average. When adjusted for cost of living, the average salary of $101,494 has a purchasing power equivalent of approximately $96,294 in an average-cost metro area.
What industries are hiring in Denver?
The top industries driving employment in the Denver Metro Area are Technology & Aerospace, Healthcare, Energy, Financial Services. Major employers in the region include Lockheed Martin, Ball Corporation, Charles Schwab, DaVita, and others. The unemployment rate of 3.2% indicates a tight job market.
Explore More Salary Data
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey for 2026. The OEWS survey is a semi-annual survey of employers that produces employment and wage estimates for over 800 occupations across all major metropolitan areas.
Cost of living data is based on composite indexes that compare housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, and other expenses to national averages. Population and economic data are sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau and Bureau of Economic Analysis.