Outdoor lifestyle, aerospace, tech relocation magnet. Here's how Respiratory Therapists 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) | $70,900 | $53,900 | $92,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $88,100 | $66,900 | $114,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $101,300 | $77,000 | $131,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $121,500 | $92,400 | $158,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $137,700 | $104,700 | $179,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Respiratory Therapists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Denver metro economy.
The average Respiratory Therapist salary in the Denver metro is $101,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $77,000 to $131,700 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $167,100 or more.
Yes — Denver pays +1% relative to the Colorado state median for Respiratory Therapists. 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 Respiratory Therapists — though cost of living in Denver is also typically elevated.
In Denver, the median Respiratory Therapist salary of $101,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Respiratory Therapists in Denver start around $70,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $121,500 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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