Top Paying Jobs in Colorado
Colorado has 100 tracked occupation categories totaling 406,790 jobs. The highest-paying occupations include Orthodontists ($416,000), Dermatologists ($398,810), Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric ($385,410). The cost of living index is 103.71 (national average = 100). Median 2-bedroom rent is $1,832/month.
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State-level averages. Salaries, rent, and cost of living vary significantly between metros. For more accurate data, select a metro area from the list below or browse all metros.
$164K
Avg. median salary
103.71
Cost of living index
$1,832
Median 2BR rent
N/A
Population
Highest paying careers in Colorado
| Rank | Occupation | Category | Median salary | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | Advertising and Promotions Managers | Management | $165K | $79.32/hr |
| 32 | Public Relations Managers | Management | $163K | $78.3/hr |
| 33 | Administrative Services Managers | Management | $157K | $75.48/hr |
| 34 | Aerospace Engineers | Engineering | $156K | $75.09/hr |
| 35 | Computer Hardware Engineers | Engineering | $156K | $75.04/hr |
| 36 | Pharmacists | Healthcare | $156K | $75.01/hr |
| 37 | Database Architects | Technology | $155K | $74.31/hr |
| 38 | Natural Sciences Managers | Management | $153K | $73.43/hr |
| 39 | Optometrists | Healthcare | $152K | $73.08/hr |
| 40 | Podiatrists | Healthcare | $143K | $68.57/hr |
Affordability snapshot: Colorado
These are statewide averages. Costs vary widely between metros, click into a specific city for precise numbers.
Cost of living vs. national average+3.7% more expensive
2-bedroom apartment (FMR)$1,832/mo
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Metro areas in Colorado
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After federal and state taxes
Can you afford a 2-bedroom in Colorado?
Salary thresholds by HUD rent data
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Monthly budget breakdown with HUD and BLS data