Nuclear Engineer Salary in Colorado
The median nuclear engineer salary in Colorado is $126,399 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for nuclear engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $126,399 per year, nuclear engineers in Colorado earn $6,019 more than the national median of $120,380.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning nuclear engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $79,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $186,900 — a $107,100 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 $154,086.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $81,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $180,600 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 | $79,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,800 |
| Median (50th) | $126,399 |
| 75th Percentile | $155,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $186,900 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for nuclear 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 Nuclear Engineer in Colorado
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,201 over your career trajectory.
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