Lawyers Salary in Denver, CO
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO
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In Denver, CO, the typical lawyer earns a median annual salary of $180,940, which is significantly higher than both the national median of $151,160 and the area's median household income of $102,339. This disparity underscores the lucrative nature of the legal profession in comparison to average earnings within the local community. With an estimated employment figure of 12,590 lawyers in the region, the field remains robust despite a local unemployment rate of 4.20%. The substantial gap between what lawyers earn and the median household income highlights the specialized skills and education required for this occupation, contributing to its higher earning potential relative to other professions within Denver.
The earnings of entry-level versus experienced lawyers in Denver reflect common trends in career progression within the legal field. An entry-level lawyer typically earns closer to the 10th percentile mark at $83,990 annually, while those with more experience and expertise can earn upwards of the median salary of $180,940 or even beyond. The disparity is driven by factors such as years of practice, areas of specialization, firm size, and individual performance. Lawyers often see significant increases in their earnings potential through gaining diverse legal experiences, developing niche specializations, and advancing to senior roles within larger firms or taking on high-profile cases. This progression underscores the importance of experience and expertise in driving salary growth within the legal profession.
Salary percentile breakdown
Denver economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Lawyers make per hour in Denver?
The median hourly wage for Lawyers in Denver, CO is $86.99, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $162.05 or more per hour.
Is Denver above or below average for Lawyers salaries?
The median Lawyers salary in Denver, CO is 19.7% above the national median of $151,160. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Lawyers in Denver?
Entry-level Lawyers (10th percentile) earn around $83,990 per year in Denver, CO. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $125,880.