Agriculture & Environment Colorado (CO) Rank #11 of 50

Zoologist Salary in Colorado

The median zoologist salary in Colorado is $71,642 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary
$71,642
vs National
+$3,412
State Rank
#11 of 50
Cost of Living
105%

Zoologist Salary Overview in Colorado (2026)

Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. Colorado falls in the middle of the pack for zoologist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $71,642 per year, zoologists in Colorado earn $3,412 more than the national median of $68,230.

Colorado's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning zoologist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Colorado is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $44,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,600 — a $73,500 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 $87,334.

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for zoologists across the country.

Zoologist Salary in Colorado by Experience

In Colorado, an entry-level zoologist earns around $47,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $110,250 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$47,250
+$2,250 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$73,500
+$3,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$110,250
+$5,250 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Colorado

Percentile CO Salary
10th Percentile $44,100
25th Percentile $56,700
Median (50th) $71,642
75th Percentile $94,500
90th Percentile $117,600

Zoologist Salary by City in Colorado

The largest employment areas for zoologists 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 Zoologist in Colorado

Education

Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in Colorado

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Zoologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $38,608 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Colorado

How much does a Zoologist make in Colorado? ▼
The median zoologist salary in Colorado is $71,642 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $44,100 (10th percentile) to $117,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Colorado? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $71,642, a zoologist in Colorado earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Colorado a good state for zoologists? ▼
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for zoologist pay. The cost of living index is 105% of the national average. Entry-level zoologists earn $47,250, while senior professionals earn $110,250.
How does Colorado compare to other states for zoologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for zoologists is Hawaii at $115,991. Colorado's median of $71,642 ranks #11 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Maryland ($75,053) and Oregon ($75,053).
What is the entry-level zoologist salary in Colorado? ▼
An entry-level zoologist in Colorado earns approximately $47,250 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $73,500. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $110,250.
What city in Colorado pays zoologists the most? ▼
Boulder is the highest paying city in Colorado for zoologists, with a median salary of $87,334. Other cities include Denver and Colorado Springs.