In Denver, CO, Software Developers earn a median of $134,990 a year — about 2% below the U.S. median of $138,110. Among the 49 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #14.
What that pay is worth in Denver
Local prices run 106 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $139,670 salary buys less than it looks — about $132,036 in national-average buying power.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Denver?
A typical Denver home runs about $586,700 — 4.2 times the average Software Developer salary, manageable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,770/mo takes roughly 15% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Software Developer pay ladder in Denver
Entry-level (10th percentile) Software Developers earn about $89,200; the top 10% reach $191,070 — a $101,870 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Software Developer job market in Denver
Denver employs roughly 27,690 Software Developers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Denver with other cities
See the full Software Developer 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 Software Developers make in Denver?
The average Software Developer in Denver, CO earns about $139,670 per year, 1.1% above the national average of $138,110.
What is the take-home pay for Software Developers in Denver after taxes?
After federal and CO taxes, this $139,670 salary is worth about $101,293 a year - roughly $8,441 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 27%.
What do the highest-paid Software Developers earn in Denver?
The top 10% of Software Developers in Denver earn about $191,070 a year, versus about $89,200 for the bottom 10%.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Denver?
A typical Denver home runs about $586,700 - roughly 4.2x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.