Teacher Salaries in Colorado: What You Need to Know

Colorado is known for its beautiful hiking trails and winter sports scene, attracting outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The state’s stunning mountain views are a big reason why Colorado is one of the top destinations for out-of-staters to find their new home. But before teachers make the move, they should know how Colorado’s teacher salaries and other educational opportunities compare to other states.

Whether you’re a veteran educator or a career changer looking to move into the classroom, Moreland University can help you make informed decisions about your career. Keep reading to learn more about Colorado’s K-12 scene, teacher pay scales in the state, and the factors that influence Colorado teacher pay.

Starting Teacher Salaries in Colorado  

The average starting teacher salary in Colorado is $42,421, compared to the national average of $46,526, according to the National Education Association. While the state’s starting teacher salaries are relatively low, Colorado teachers have the opportunity to grow their careers and move quickly up the pay scale. There is also a significant teacher shortage in Colorado, which means educators in the state are in high demand and often benefit from extra job security.

Average Teacher Salary in Colorado  

The average teacher salary in Colorado for all experience levels is $68,647, per the NEA. That puts Colorado at No. 20 in the country for average teacher pay. 

Salaries and benefits vary by district, but most teachers in Colorado are eligible for exceptional health insurance, including vision and dental insurance. Plus, teachers in Colorado are part of the state’s largest public retirement system, the Colorado Public Employees’ Retirement Association, which allows educators to fully retire at age 65 with 30 years of in-state service. Teachers are eligible for a partial pension with just 5 years of in-state service.

Average Teacher Salary in Colorado vs. National Average  

Colorado’s average teacher salary is $3,383 a year below the national average ($68,647 in Colorado versus $72,030 nationwide). The cost of living in Colorado is also higher than the national average, according to the state’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade, but teachers in some Colorado school districts are eligible for benefits that can help offset those costs. 

For example, teachers in Colorado can be eligible for several student loan forgiveness programs, tuition reimbursement, and even housing assistance, according to TEACH Colorado, whose mission is to end the state’s teacher shortage. Teachers who are part of the Professional Association of Colorado Educators get even more benefits, including job protection coverage, no-cost life insurance, and discounts on groceries, retail, and entertainment.

Variations in Teacher Salaries in Colorado  

Teacher salaries in Colorado can vary significantly from district to district and even depending on the type of school. For example, in 2023, the average teacher salary in a Colorado charter school was $48,221, according to the state department of education. In a non- charter school that same year, the average teacher salary was $65,838 — a $17,617 difference. 

The state maintains a teacher salary workbook that allows educators to view average pay across the state by district or by school type. Looking at non- charter schools, the top average pay was in the Boulder Valley School District, at $88,981 a year. At the bottom end, multiple districts were in the $30,000 or $40,000 a year range.

Factors Influencing Teacher Salaries in Colorado  

Teacher salaries vary in Colorado for a number of reasons. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most significant factors: 

• Regional differences: Because Colorado’s school districts are funded in large part by local tax revenue, urban and suburban school districts often pay teachers more than rural districts.
• License type: A Colorado teacher with a temporary certification may make less than a teacher who has advanced to their Initial or Professional License.
• Advanced degrees & certifications: Teachers with advanced degrees or National Board Certification typically make more than teachers who haven’t continued their education. Even extra hours of professional development without an advanced degree can increase a teacher’s status on their district’s pay schedule.
• Experience level: As teachers rack up years of experience, they progress through pay schedules and earn incremental pay increases.
• High-need areas: Educators in rural areas and those who teach certain understaffed subject areas like STEM, special education, and English as a Second Language (ESL) can receive financial incentives or stipends.
• Cost of living adjustments: Some Colorado districts offer higher salaries and even housing assistance to teachers, depending on cost of living in the area.

Advancing Beyond Average Teacher Salary in Colorado  

If you’re looking to grow your teaching salary in Colorado, there are a number of ways to do so: 

• Additional certifications or advanced degrees: Earning a master’s degree or additional certification can lead to higher pay and additional career opportunities.
• Leadership roles: Stepping into leadership roles such as department head, instructional coach, or administrator can lead to increased pay and added benefits compared to teaching positions. Moreland’s Master’s in Educational Leadership has helped many teachers successfully make this transition.
• Extra responsibilities: Teachers can earn additional income by coaching, leading extracurricular activities, mentoring peers, and other duties outside of the classroom. 

Budget and Funding Factors for Colorado Teacher Salaries  

Public schools in Colorado are funded by three main sources: local taxes, state revenue, and federal funds. The state’s school funding formula, which was tweaked by legislators in 2025, is driven heavily by pupil enrollment, so larger districts get more funds. 

A district’s funding formula directly impacts how much its teachers are paid. Sometimes, districts ask local voters for additional funds through bonds and levies for operating costs, including teacher salaries, or building projects. 

Grow Your Colorado Teaching Salary with Moreland University  

Whether you’re a career changer looking to move into education or a lifelong teacher ready to move on to the next step in your career, Moreland University is here for you. 

You could earn your teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland or your license plus an M.Ed. in as little as 12 months. Our programs are fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.  

Ready to take the next step? Apply for free today (takes less than 15 minutes), and you‘ll hear back within 2 business days.