Nuclear Engineer Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median nuclear engineer salary in Boulder, CO is $154,086 per year, which is 28.0% above the national median and 21.9% above the Colorado state average.
Nuclear Engineer Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median nuclear engineer salary of $154,086, which is $27,687 above the Colorado state average of $126,399. Compared to the national median of $120,380, 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 $154,086 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $120,380. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for nuclear engineers in Boulder spans from $97,280 at the 10th percentile to $227,840 at the 90th percentile — a $130,560 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $99,840, while senior nuclear engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $220,160. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $99,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $220,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $97,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $122,880 |
| Median (50th) | $154,086 |
| 75th Percentile | $189,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $227,840 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Boulder
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Boulder
Browse open nuclear engineer positions in Boulder, CO: