Registered Nurse Salary in Denver
2026 compensation data for Registered Nurse positions in Denver, CO. Ranges from $58,000 (entry-level) to $137,000 (senior). Median: $89,000.
Median (Mid)
$89,000
$42.79/hr
vs National
+3%
US: $86,000
COL Index
120
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$137,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $58,000 | $67,000 | $79,000 | $32.21/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $76,000 | $89,000 | $105,000 | $42.79/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $100,000 | $116,000 | $137,000 | $55.77/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Denver
A mid-level registered nurse earning $89,000 in Denver has the same buying power as $74,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 120).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Registered Nurse Salaries in Denver
The median registered nurse salary in Denver, CO is $89,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 3% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 120 (national average = 100), Denver offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level registered nurses in Denver can expect to earn between $58,000 and $79,000 (about $32.21/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $137,000 ($137K annually, or about $65.87/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Denver.
Frequently Asked Questions: Registered Nurse Salary in Denver
What is the average Registered Nurse salary in Denver?+
The average Registered Nurse salary in Denver is $89,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $67,000 and senior-level pay reaches $116,000.
How much does an entry-level registered nurse make in Denver?+
Entry-level registered nurses in Denver earn between $58,000 and $79,000, with a median of $67,000 per year (about $32.21/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Registered Nurse in Denver?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Registered Nurse in Denver earns roughly $32.21/hour at entry-level, $42.79/hour at mid-level, and $55.77/hour at senior-level.
Is the Registered Nurse salary in Denver higher than the US average?+
Yes — Registered Nurse salaries in Denver are about 3% higher than the US national median of $86,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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