Registered Nurses Salary in Boulder, CO

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Boulder, CO

Median annual salary $99,530 +6.3% vs national
Median hourly $47.85
10th percentile $67,080
90th percentile $129,680
Employed locally 3,140
National median $93,600

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Registered Nurses
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    In Boulder, Colorado, registered nurses (RNs) earn a median annual salary of $99,530, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $93,600. This local salary surpasses the area's median household income of $102,772, indicating that RNs in Boulder typically earn more than many other workers within the region. With a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.20%, the demand for nursing professionals appears robust, contributing to competitive compensation in this field.

    Entry-level registered nurses in Boulder start at the 10th percentile with an annual salary of $67,080, while those further along their careers and positioned at the 75th percentile earn around $105,990 annually. The significant disparity between entry-level and experienced RNs is driven by factors such as accumulated experience, specialized skills, certifications, and leadership roles within healthcare settings. This progression in earnings reflects a standard career trajectory where nurses increase their value through additional qualifications and responsibilities, thus commanding higher wages over time.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $67,080
    25th
    $84,770
    50th (median)
    $99,530
    75th
    $105,990
    90th
    $129,680

    Boulder economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,772 2023 • Census ACS
    Registered Nurses salary vs area income 97% Median Registered Nurses salary is 3% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Boulder?

    The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Boulder, CO is $47.85, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $61.66 or more per hour.

    Is Boulder above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?

    The median Registered Nurses salary in Boulder, CO is 6.3% above the national median of $93,600. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Registered Nurses in Boulder?

    Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $67,080 per year in Boulder, CO. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $84,770.