Registered Nurses in Colorado
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Colorado | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,520 | $93,600 | +3.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #17 of 53 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 54,510 jobs | 3,282,010 jobs | 1.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,050 | $36.56 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,790 | $39.32 |
| Median | $96,520 | $46.40 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,370 | $50.18 |
| 90th Percentile | $121,710 | $58.52 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Registered Nurses in Colorado in 2026?
With a median salary of $96,520 in Colorado and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +41.3%, registered nurses are still in strong and growing demand.
How can registered nurses increase their salary in Colorado?
Registered Nurses 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 #17 out of 53 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 Registered Nurses in Colorado?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | $130,800 |
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | $130,800 |
| Computer Systems Design and Related Services | $120,120 |
How are Registered Nurses paid in Colorado compared to the national average?
The median salary for Registered Nurses in Colorado is $96,520, which is 3.1% above the national median of $93,600.