Chemical Engineer Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median chemical engineer salary in Boulder, CO is $136,013 per year, which is 28.0% above the national median and 21.9% above the Colorado state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median chemical engineer salary of $136,013, which is $24,440 above the Colorado state average of $111,573. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Boulder pays above average for this role.
However, Boulder's cost of living index is 128%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $136,013 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $106,260. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Boulder spans from $87,040 at the 10th percentile to $220,160 at the 90th percentile — a $133,120 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $89,600, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $207,360. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $89,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $207,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $87,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,520 |
| Median (50th) | $136,013 |
| 75th Percentile | $176,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $220,160 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Boulder
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Boulder
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Boulder, CO: