Physicist Salary in Colorado
The median physicist salary in Colorado is $160,052 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for physicist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $160,052 per year, physicists in Colorado earn $7,622 more than the national median of $152,430.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning physicist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $81,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $249,900 — a $168,000 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 $195,110.
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for physicists across the country.
Physicist Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level physicist earns around $86,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $231,000 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $160,052+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Colorado
| Percentile | CO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,400 |
| Median (50th) | $160,052 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $249,900 |
Physicist Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for physicists 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 Physicist in Colorado
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, physicist 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 Physicists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $70,948 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Physicist Roles in Colorado?
Get matched with recruiters hiring physicists in Colorado at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: