Systems Administrator Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median systems administrator salary in Boulder, CO is $115,342 per year, which is 36.0% above the national median and 20.4% above the Colorado state average.
Systems Administrator Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median systems administrator salary of $115,342, which is $19,507 above the Colorado state average of $95,835. Compared to the national median of $84,810, 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 $115,342 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $90,111. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for systems administrators in Boulder spans from $70,720 at the 10th percentile to $179,520 at the 90th percentile — a $108,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $74,800, while senior systems administrators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $170,000. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Systems Administrator Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $74,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $170,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,120 |
| Median (50th) | $115,342 |
| 75th Percentile | $146,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $179,520 |
Systems Administrator Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Systems Administrator in Boulder
Education
Most systems administrator positions require a bachelor's degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, systems administrator employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Systems Administrator Jobs in Boulder
Browse open systems administrator positions in Boulder, CO: