Outdoor lifestyle, aerospace, tech relocation magnet. Here's how Civil Engineers in Denver get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Denver metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $89,200 | $67,800 | $115,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $110,900 | $84,300 | $144,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $127,500 | $96,900 | $165,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $153,000 | $116,200 | $198,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $173,400 | $131,700 | $225,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Civil Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Denver metro economy.
The average Civil Engineer salary in the Denver metro is $127,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $96,900 to $165,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $210,300 or more.
Yes — Denver pays +1% relative to the Colorado state median for Civil Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Denver vs. national: +18%. That puts Denver among the stronger US markets for Civil Engineers — though cost of living in Denver is also typically elevated.
In Denver, the median Civil Engineer salary of $127,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Civil Engineers in Denver start around $89,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $153,000 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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