College Professor Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median college professor salary in Boulder, CO is $107,366 per year, which is 28.0% above the national median and 21.9% above the Colorado state average.
College Professor Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median college professor salary of $107,366, which is $19,292 above the Colorado state average of $88,074. Compared to the national median of $83,880, 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 $107,366 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $83,880. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for college professors in Boulder spans from $57,600 at the 10th percentile to $215,040 at the 90th percentile — a $157,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,440, while senior college professors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $204,800. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
College Professor Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level college professor earns around $61,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,800 |
| Median (50th) | $107,366 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $215,040 |
College Professor Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a College Professor in Boulder
Education
Most college professor positions require a doctoral degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, college professor 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 College Professor Jobs in Boulder
Browse open college professor positions in Boulder, CO: