Teacher (K-12) Salary in Colorado
The median teacher (k-12) salary in Colorado is $64,775 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $61,690.
Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for teacher (k-12) pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $64,775 per year, teacher (k-12)s in Colorado earn $3,085 more than the national median of $61,690.
Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning teacher (k-12) salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Colorado is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $43,470, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $106,050 — a $62,580 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 $78,963.
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for teacher (k-12)s across the country.
Teacher (K-12) Salary in Colorado by Experience
In Colorado, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $44,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,600 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $64,775 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Colorado
| Percentile | CO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $43,470 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,240 |
| Median (50th) | $64,775 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,050 |
Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in Colorado
The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s 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 Teacher (K-12) in Colorado
Education
Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Colorado
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Teacher (K-12)s who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,825 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Teacher (K-12) Roles in Colorado?
Get matched with recruiters hiring teacher (k-12)s in Colorado at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: