Outdoor lifestyle, aerospace, tech relocation magnet. Here's how Petroleum 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) | $129,700 | $98,500 | $168,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $161,200 | $122,400 | $209,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $185,300 | $140,800 | $240,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $222,300 | $168,900 | $289,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $252,000 | $191,400 | $327,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Petroleum Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Denver metro economy.
The average Petroleum Engineer salary in the Denver metro is $185,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $140,800 to $240,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $305,700 or more.
Yes — Denver pays +0% relative to the Colorado state median for Petroleum 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 Petroleum Engineers — though cost of living in Denver is also typically elevated.
In Denver, the median Petroleum Engineer salary of $185,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Petroleum Engineers in Denver start around $129,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $222,300 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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