Registered Nurse Salary in Colorado
The median registered nurse salary in Colorado is $86,905 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #13 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $86,905 per year, registered nurses in Colorado earn $5,685 more than the national median of $81,220.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $61,418, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $129,256 — a $67,838 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 $105,586.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $62,060, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,050 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.
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| Percentile | CO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,418 |
| 25th Percentile | $71,476 |
| Median (50th) | $86,905 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,177 |
| 90th Percentile | $129,256 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for registered nurses 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 Registered Nurse in Colorado
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $36,145 over your career trajectory.
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