In Denver, CO, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $104,390 a year — about 1% below the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #15.
What that pay is worth in Denver
Local prices run 106 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $116,920 salary buys less than it looks — about $110,529 in national-average buying power.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Denver?
A typical Denver home runs about $586,700 — 5.0 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,770/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Denver
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $68,990; the top 10% reach $170,280 — a $101,290 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Mechanical Engineer job market in Denver
Denver employs roughly 4,140 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Denver with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Denver against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Mechanical Engineers make in Denver?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Denver, CO earns about $116,920 per year, 11.1% above the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Denver after taxes?
After federal and CO taxes, this $116,920 salary is worth about $86,647 a year - roughly $7,220 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 26%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Denver?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Denver earn about $170,280 a year, versus about $68,990 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Denver?
A typical Denver home runs about $586,700 - roughly 5.0x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.