Outdoor lifestyle, aerospace, tech relocation magnet. Here's how Registered Nurse (RN)s 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) | $78,100 | $59,400 | $101,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $97,100 | $73,800 | $126,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $111,700 | $84,900 | $145,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $134,000 | $101,800 | $174,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $151,900 | $115,400 | $197,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Registered Nurse (RN)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Denver metro economy.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in the Denver metro is $111,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $84,900 to $145,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $184,300 or more.
Yes — Denver pays +1% relative to the Colorado state median for Registered Nurse (RN)s. 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 Registered Nurse (RN)s — though cost of living in Denver is also typically elevated.
In Denver, the median Registered Nurse (RN) salary of $111,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Registered Nurse (RN)s in Denver start around $78,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $134,000 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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