Nurse Practitioner Salary in Colorado
The median nurse practitioner salary in Colorado is $130,123 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median of $121,610.
Nurse Practitioner Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #13 out of 50 states for nurse practitioner compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for nurse practitioner pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $130,123 per year, nurse practitioners in Colorado earn $8,513 more than the national median of $121,610.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning nurse practitioner salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: nurse practitioners at the 10th percentile earn $93,197, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $179,974 — a $86,777 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 $158,093.
Nationally, nurse practitioner employment is projected to grow 40% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Colorado and beyond.
Nurse Practitioner Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level nurse practitioner earns around $96,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,850 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 | $93,197 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,494 |
| Median (50th) | $130,123 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,545 |
| 90th Percentile | $179,974 |
Nurse Practitioner Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for nurse practitioners 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 Nurse Practitioner in Colorado
Education
Most nurse practitioner positions require a master's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, nurse practitioner employment is projected to grow 40% 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 Nurse Practitioners who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $35,727 over your career trajectory.
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