Petroleum Engineer Salary in Colorado
The median petroleum engineer salary in Colorado is $138,390 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for petroleum engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $138,390 per year, petroleum engineers in Colorado earn $6,590 more than the national median of $131,800.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning petroleum engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $84,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $212,100 — a $128,100 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 $168,704.
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for petroleum engineers across the country.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $88,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,750 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 | $84,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,100 |
| Median (50th) | $138,390 |
| 75th Percentile | $176,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $212,100 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for petroleum 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 Petroleum Engineer in Colorado
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Petroleum Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $66,360 over your career trajectory.
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