Software Developers Salary in Boulder, CO

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

Median annual salary $159,670 +20% vs national
Median hourly $76.76
10th percentile $97,930
90th percentile
Employed locally 7,790
National median $133,080

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Software Developers
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    In Boulder, CO, software developers earn a median annual salary of $159,670, which is significantly higher than the national median of $133,080 for this occupation. This substantial difference highlights Boulder as an attractive hub for tech professionals seeking lucrative opportunities. When comparing these earnings to local household income, software developer salaries vastly exceed the area's median household income of $102,772. This disparity underscores the financial advantage and economic impact that highly skilled tech workers bring to the region, contributing positively to both personal wealth accumulation and broader community prosperity.

    Salaries for software developers in Boulder vary considerably based on experience levels, with entry-level positions earning closer to the 10th percentile at approximately $97,930 annually. In contrast, more experienced developers can expect earnings near or above the 75th percentile, reaching up to $206,980 per year. This wide salary range reflects the value placed on expertise and specialized skills within the tech industry. Factors driving these differences include years of experience, proficiency in high-demand programming languages, leadership roles, and contributions to complex projects. As such, career advancement and continuous skill development are crucial for software developers seeking higher compensation in this competitive job market.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $97,930
    25th
    $123,310
    50th (median)
    $159,670
    75th
    $206,980

    Boulder economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,772 2023 • Census ACS
    Software Developers salary vs area income 155% Median Software Developers salary is 55% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Software Developers make per hour in Boulder?

    The median hourly wage for Software Developers in Boulder, CO is $76.76, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $113.30 or more per hour.

    Is Boulder above or below average for Software Developers salaries?

    The median Software Developers salary in Boulder, CO is 20% above the national median of $133,080. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Software Developers in Boulder?

    Entry-level Software Developers (10th percentile) earn around $97,930 per year in Boulder, CO. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $123,310.