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Technology · Colorado

How to Become a Software Developers in Colorado

Software Developers in Colorado earn a median salary of $138,390/year, which is 2% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a software developers takes home approximately $5,459/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$138K
Median salary in Colorado
+2%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
43,320
Employed in Colorado

What a software developers can afford in Colorado

Gross annual salary$138,390
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$8,271/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$2,812/mo
Rent as % of take-home34% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$138,390/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$5,459/mo

Becoming a software developers in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

Software Developers positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many software developers positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for software developerss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 43,320 software developers. The highest concentrations are in Boulder and Denver-Aurora-Centennial.

Software Developers salary by metro area in Colorado

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boulder$165K$79.11/hr7,130
Denver-Aurora-Centennial$138K$66.16/hr27,010
Colorado Springs$134K$64.56/hr4,850
Fort Collins-Loveland$134K$64.42/hr1,820
Greeley$129K$62.25/hr560
Grand Junction$124K$59.61/hr170
Pueblo$123K$59.03/hr150

Software Developers salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$96K
25th percentile
$122K
Median (50th)
$138K
75th percentile
$173K
90th percentile (senior)
$213K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a software developers make in Colorado?

The median software developers salary in Colorado is $138,390 per year ($66.53/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $135,980. Salaries range from $96,480 to $213,010.

What are the requirements to become a software developers in Colorado?

Software Developers 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 software developers afford to live in Colorado?

At the median salary of $138,390, a software developers in Colorado would take home approximately $8,271/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,812/month, that's 34% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for software developers in Colorado?

The highest paying metro areas for software developers in Colorado are Boulder ($164,560), Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($137,610), Colorado Springs ($134,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Colorado have state income tax for software developers?

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $138,390 salary, this means roughly $6,089/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.