Data Engineer Salary in Colorado
The median data engineer salary in Colorado is $141,250 per year, which is 13.0% above the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for data engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $141,250 per year, data engineers in Colorado earn $16,250 more than the national median of $125,000.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning data engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $88,140, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $214,700 — a $126,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Colorado for this role is Boulder, where the median reaches $170,000.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Colorado and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level data engineer earns around $90,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $203,400 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Colorado
| Percentile | CO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $88,140 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,000 |
| Median (50th) | $141,250 |
| 75th Percentile | $178,540 |
| 90th Percentile | $214,700 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for data engineers in Colorado include Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, and Fort Collins. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Data Engineer in Colorado
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $62,150 over your career trajectory.
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