Crane and Tower Operators in Colorado
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Colorado | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,140 | $66,370 | +11.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #15 of 52 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 600 jobs | 42,000 jobs | 1.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $56,760 | $27.29 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,070 | $32.25 |
| Median | $74,140 | $35.65 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,910 | $36.98 |
| 90th Percentile | $85,920 | $41.31 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Crane and Tower Operators in Colorado in 2026?
With a median salary of $74,140 in Colorado and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +52.4%, crane and tower operators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can crane and tower operators increase their salary in Colorado?
Crane and Tower Operators in Colorado can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Colorado currently ranks #15 out of 52 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Crane and Tower Operators in Colorado?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | $135,480 |
| Natural Gas Distribution | $135,480 |
| Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing | $107,120 |
How are Crane and Tower Operators paid in Colorado compared to the national average?
The median salary for Crane and Tower Operators in Colorado is $74,140, which is 11.7% above the national median of $66,370.