Computer Programmer Salary in Boulder
Writes, tests, and maintains code that runs software systems and applications.
Boulder ranks #13 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $10,086 above the national average.
Boulder vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $71,406 | $61,320 | +$10,086 | +16.4% |
| Level II | $107,598 | $78,293 | +$29,305 | +37.4% |
| Level III (Mid) | $143,811 | $95,267 | +$48,544 | +51.0% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $180,003 | $112,240 | +$67,763 | +60.4% |
Other metros in Colorado
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greeley | $75,275 | $165,318 | $135,616 |
| Northwest Colorado | $74,942 | $165,464 | $135,595 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland | $105,560 | $146,744 | $133,162 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial | $82,826 | $154,419 | $130,790 |
| Eastern and Southern Colorado | $77,750 | $146,557 | $123,843 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average computer programmer salary in Boulder?
The average computer programmer salary in Boulder is $144,165 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Boulder at rank #13 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level computer programmers earn in Boulder?
Entry-level computer programmers (Level I) in Boulder earn $71,406 per year. Level II (early career) earns $107,598, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Boulder compare to the national average for computer programmer salaries?
Boulder ranks #13 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $10,086 above the national average. The national average computer programmer salary is $95,436, while Boulder workers average $144,165 — a difference of +51% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 15-1251.