Childcare Workers Salary in Denver, CO

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO

Median annual salary $38,720 +20.8% vs national
Median hourly $18.62
10th percentile $31,590
90th percentile $47,170
Employed locally 7,000
National median $32,050

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Childcare Workers
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Denver, CO
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    In Denver, Colorado, childcare workers earn a median annual salary of $38,720, which is approximately $6,670 higher than the national median for this occupation at $32,050. On an hourly basis, they make around $18.62. Compared to the local area median household income of $102,339, childcare workers' earnings represent about 37.9% of a typical Denver household's total income. This indicates that while childcare workers earn significantly more than the national average for their profession, their wages remain below the threshold necessary to meet an average household's financial needs in Denver.

    Entry-level childcare workers in Denver can expect salaries starting around $31,590, which is at the 10th percentile of earnings, reflecting a median hourly rate considerably lower than the city-wide median. As they gain experience and potentially pursue additional qualifications or certifications, their earning potential increases, with experienced workers earning up to $45,120 (75th percentile) or even as high as $47,170 (90th percentile). The difference in pay between entry-level and experienced childcare workers is primarily driven by factors such as years of experience, educational attainment, work environment, and the level of responsibility within their roles. Such progression highlights the importance of professional development and specialization in enhancing earning potential within this field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $31,590
    25th
    $34,900
    50th (median)
    $38,720
    75th
    $45,120
    90th
    $47,170

    Denver economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,339 2023 • Census ACS
    Childcare Workers salary vs area income 38% Median Childcare Workers salary is 62% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Childcare Workers make per hour in Denver?

    The median hourly wage for Childcare Workers in Denver, CO is $18.62, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $23.70 or more per hour.

    Is Denver above or below average for Childcare Workers salaries?

    The median Childcare Workers salary in Denver, CO is 20.8% above the national median of $32,050. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Childcare Workers in Denver?

    Entry-level Childcare Workers (10th percentile) earn around $31,590 per year in Denver, CO. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $34,900.