Mechanical Engineer Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median mechanical engineer salary in Boulder, CO is $123,277 per year, which is 28.0% above the national median and 21.9% above the Colorado state average.
Mechanical Engineer Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median mechanical engineer salary of $123,277, which is $22,151 above the Colorado state average of $101,126. Compared to the national median of $96,310, 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 $123,277 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $96,310. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for mechanical engineers in Boulder spans from $81,152 at the 10th percentile to $187,136 at the 90th percentile — a $105,984 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,200, while senior mechanical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $176,640. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $83,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $176,640 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,152 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,864 |
| Median (50th) | $123,277 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,088 |
| 90th Percentile | $187,136 |
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Boulder
Education
Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Boulder
Browse open mechanical engineer positions in Boulder, CO: