How Accountant / CPAs in Colorado get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Colorado compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $71,900 | $54,600 | $93,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $89,400 | $67,900 | $116,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $102,800 | $78,100 | $133,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $123,300 | $93,700 | $160,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $139,800 | $106,200 | $181,600 |
Pay varies sharply within Colorado. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Colorado |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | $103,500 | $78,600 | $134,500 | +1% |
Top occupations by median pay in Colorado — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Colorado
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Accountant / CPA salary in Colorado is $102,800 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $78,100 and the 75th at $133,600.
Pay-wise, Colorado sits +17% above the national Accountant / CPA median ($87,800). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Accountant / CPAs (10–14 years of experience) in Colorado earn around $123,300 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $139,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Colorado ranks 9th for Accountant / CPA pay. The highest-paying state pays around $114,200 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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