Economist Salary in Fort Collins, Colorado
The median economist salary in Fort Collins, CO is $120,776 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median and 1.0% above the Colorado state average.
Economist Pay in Fort Collins: What to Expect (2026)
Fort Collins offers a median economist salary of $120,776, which is $1,139 above the Colorado state average of $119,637. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Fort Collins pays above average for this role.
Fort Collins's cost of living is 106% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for economists in Fort Collins spans from $65,720 at the 10th percentile to $209,880 at the 90th percentile — a $144,160 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $68,900, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $196,100. With a population of 169,810, Fort Collins is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Fort Collins by Experience
In Fort Collins, an entry-level economist earns around $68,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $196,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 106% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Fort Collins, CO
| Percentile | Fort Collins |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,920 |
| Median (50th) | $120,776 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $209,880 |
Economist Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Economist in Fort Collins
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Fort Collins and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Fort Collins may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Fort Collins
Browse open economist positions in Fort Collins, CO: