How to Become a Registered Nurses in Colorado
Registered Nurses in Colorado earn a median salary of $100,260/year, which is 3% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $5,026/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Colorado
Becoming a registered nurses in Colorado
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Colorado. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Colorado licensure or certification
Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Colorado
Colorado employs 54,490 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Boulder and Denver-Aurora-Centennial.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Colorado
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boulder | $103K | $49.66/hr | 3,140 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial | $101K | $48.62/hr | 30,380 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland | $98K | $46.92/hr | , |
| Greeley | $96K | $46.3/hr | 1,390 |
| Colorado Springs | $96K | $46.22/hr | 6,800 |
| Grand Junction | $96K | $46.15/hr | 2,130 |
| Pueblo | $96K | $46.02/hr | 2,040 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Colorado
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Colorado?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Colorado is $100,260 per year ($48.2/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $97,550. Salaries range from $79,500 to $124,940.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Colorado?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Colorado?▼
At the median salary of $100,260, a registered nurses in Colorado would take home approximately $6,209/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,183/month, that's 19.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Colorado?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Colorado are Boulder ($103,290), Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($101,130), Fort Collins-Loveland ($97,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Colorado have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $100,260 salary, this means roughly $4,411/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.