By: All Criminal Justice Schools Staff
Updated: January 7, 2026
Find Criminal Justice Salaries for Your State
Learn what you may be able to earn in your state, how the cost of living and other factors could impact your pay, why education matters—and much more.
Criminal justice salaries in Colorado
Colorado offers a dynamic environment for criminal justice careers with competitive salaries and unique contributors that influence the field. Here’s an overview of how the state fares, including salary information and notable factors impacting criminal justice careers:
- Diverse population: Colorado’s diverse population requires law enforcement agencies to focus on community policing and cultural competency training. There is a higher demand for bilingual officers, particularly those fluent in Spanish.
- Tourism and outdoor activities: Colorado’s tourism industry—particularly in areas like Denver, Boulder and ski resorts like Aspen and Vail— increases the demand for public safety services and specialized search and rescue operations, which may impact law enforcement and emergency operations.
- Legalized marijuana: Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, which has had significant implications for law enforcement, including adjustments in drug enforcement priorities and the need for specialized training.
- Educational opportunity: Colorado offers numerous educational programs in criminal justice through institutions like the University of Colorado, Colorado State University and the Community College of Denver, providing advanced training and career development opportunities.
- Growing tech and cyber security industry: With a growing tech industry, especially in the Denver Tech Center and in Boulder, there is an increased need for specialized cybercrime units within law enforcement agencies.
Let’s delve into the salaries for different criminal justice careers in Colorado using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
In this Article
Quick view
There are 9,950 people employed as police and sheriff’s patrol officers in Colorado says the BLS. This is a relatively low number, meaning for every 1,000 people living in the state around 3.5 are police or sheriffs. The median wage per hour is $46 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 3.1%.,
In Colorado, the majority of police officers and sheriffs work in various areas of law enforcement, primarily focusing on maintaining public safety and enforcing laws across the state. Besides municipal police departments and county sheriff’s offices, Colorado also has state agencies, such as the Colorado State Patrol and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI). At a federal level, the FBI, DEA, ATF and others, operate in Colorado to investigate federal crimes, enforce federal laws and protect national security.
Transit and transportation police agencies, such as the Denver Police Department Transit Division and RTD Transit Police, provide law enforcement services on public transportation systems and around transit hubs. Finally, many law enforcement agencies in Colorado have specialized units and task forces that focus on specific areas like narcotics, gang enforcement, SWAT, K9 units and community policing. These units may provide additional employment opportunities for those interested in criminal justice careers.
Colorado’s tech and cyber security industry is also a key player in the state’s economy, creating work for cyber security analysts and other tech and cyber security roles.
Here are five top employers for people in the criminal justice field in Colorado:
- Denver Police Department, Denver, CO:
- The Denver Police Department (DPD) serves the City and County of Denver, providing comprehensive law enforcement services, including patrol, investigations, community policing and specialized units such as SWAT and cybercrime. Employment types: Police officers, detectives, cybercrime investigators and various support roles.
- Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Lakewood, CO:
- The CBI, a division of the Colorado Department of Public Safety, provides advanced investigative services, forensic laboratory support, and criminal information systems to local law enforcement agencies. Employment types: Special agents, forensic analysts, cyber security specialists and administrative roles.
- Lockheed Martin, Littleton and Colorado Springs, CO:
- Lockheed Martin, a global aerospace, defense, and security company, has a significant presence in Colorado, particularly in Littleton and Colorado Springs. They work on advanced technology and cyber security projects. Employment types: Cyber security analysts, information security specialists, systems engineers and intelligence analysts.
- University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO:
- The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) offers numerous opportunities within its campus police department and through its academic programs in criminal justice and cyber security. Employment types: Campus police officers, security personnel, research analysts and academic faculty positions in criminal justice and cyber security programs.
- Colorado Springs Police Department, Colorado Springs, CO:
- The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) serves the city of Colorado Springs, providing public safety services, including patrol, investigations, community outreach and specialized units. Employment types: Police officers, detectives, cybercrime investigators, community service officers and administrative roles.
Quick salary stats for Colorado
Criminal justice salaries—a huge category that includes salaries for private and criminal investigations, cyber security, local and federal law enforcement roles, legal professions such as paralegal, emergency management, forensics and corrections—may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, your specialty, what professional certifications you have earned, and your level of education. Here are median annual salaries for different careers under the criminal justice umbrella nationally and by comparison, in Colorado.
Salaries for different criminal justice roles (national median)
Salaries for criminal justice roles in Colorado
Overall, criminal justice salaries in Colorado are competitive, especially in urban areas. The state’s proactive approach to compensation, combined with the high cost of living and demand for specialized skills, ensures that criminal justice professionals are paid in line with market conditions. This competitiveness is a reflection of Colorado’s commitment to maintaining a skilled and motivated workforce in its criminal justice system. Here are median salaries for popular criminal justice roles:
- Corrections officer:
- The median salary for correctional officers and jailers in Colorado is $60,670 per year. As is typical, pay is higher in metropolitan areas, reflecting the increased cost of living and demand for correctional staff.
- Forensic science technician:
- Forensic science technicians in CO earn a median salary of approximately $77,800 annually. Salaries are higher in tech-centric cities like Boulder and Denver, where the demand for data analysis and research is strong.
- Information security analyst (cyber security):
- Information security analysts in Colorado earn a healthy median salary of about $130,570 per year. Salaries may be higher in the Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs areas due to a concentration of tech companies and startups, government agencies, and defense and aerospace industries.
- Probation officer and correctional treatment specialist:
- Probation officers in Colorado earn a median of $66,770 per year. The BLS says that Colorado is the fourth largest state in the U.S. with the highest concentration of probation officer jobs.
- Paralegal:
- Paralegals and legal assistants in Colorado typically earn around $73,380 annually. Pay may be higher in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area, with similar trends in other urban centers where law firms and law enforcement agencies are centered.
Median criminal justice salary in Colorado
The median annual salary for police and sheriff’s officers in Colorado is $96,100. Colorado does not rank in the top five of highest paying states, says the BLS. Those spots are filled by California, Washington, Alaska, New Jersey and Hawaii. But take a look at salaries, both nationally and for different cities in Colorado:
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
10%$65,850
25%$77,550
50%$96,100Median
75%$103,840
90%$111,360
Median Hourly Wage$46
Job growth3.1%
Total Employment9,480
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | $103,170 | $77,340 | $114,290 |
| Boulder, CO | $101,240 | $79,360 | $105,870 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO | $97,400 | $76,060 | $111,360 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $92,660 | $62,330 | $96,550 |
| Greeley, CO | $90,790 | $66,990 | $112,470 |
| Pueblo, CO | $86,120 | $65,850 | $103,900 |
| Grand Junction, CO | $85,960 | $65,030 | $88,450 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for law enforcement careers in Colorado
The salary range for police and sheriffs in Colorado spans from $65,850 for the lowest 10% to $111,360 for the highest 10% of officers per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as time on the job, rank, whether a degree has been earned and area of specialty.
Salary by metro area for criminal justice careers in Colorado
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is a criminal justice agency hub, such as Denver, Boulder or Colorado Springs, pay may be more competitive, though the cost of living will also be higher. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S. for different criminal justice career fields:
Police and sheriffs
California pays highest across the board and dominates the top 10 metro areas for pay and Colorado does not factor into the top 10 at all.
Paralegals and legal assistants
Colorado’s Denver-Aurora-Lakewood area ranks #8 out of the top 10 metro areas in the U.S. for paralegal and legal assistant pay.
Correctional officers
Colorado does not rank in the top 10 metro areas in the U.S. for correctional officer pay. Again, the top 10 is dominated by California.
Salary growth and job outlook
Police and sheriff’s patrol officers have a 3.1% job growth rate predicted through 2034 says the BLS. This is just slightly higher than the national average for all other career fields combined. Some other criminal justice career job growth rates are as follows:
| Criminal justice career | BLS predicted job growth rate through 2034 |
|---|---|
| Paralegals and legal assistants | 0.2% |
| Corrections officers | -7.8% |
| Information security analysts | 28.5% |
| Private investigators | 6% |
| Forensic science technicians | 12.8% |
| Emergency management directors | 3% |
Factors affecting salaries in Colorado
In Colorado, pay for criminal justice and cyber security roles is influenced by several factors. The cost of living, particularly in urban areas like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs, necessitates higher salaries to attract and retain talent. Demand for specialized skills, such as cyber security expertise or forensic analysis, also drives up compensation. Additionally, economic growth and a robust job market across sectors like technology, defense and public safety contribute to competitive salaries. State-specific certifications and professional experience further impact earning potential, as does the presence of major employers and government contracts in the region. Overall, these factors ensure that pay rates in Colorado are aligned with both market demands and regional living costs.
- High cost of living in urban areas:
- Colorado, particularly cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs, has a higher cost of living compared to many other states. This necessitates higher salaries to attract and retain skilled professionals.
- Strong economy and job market:
- Colorado’s economy is robust, with significant growth in various sectors including technology, tourism and healthcare. This economic strength supports higher wages across many fields, including criminal justice.
- Demand for specialized skills:
- There is a growing need for specialized skills in areas such as cybercrime, forensic analysis and community policing. This demand drives competitive salaries to attract qualified individuals.
- State and local government initiatives:
- Colorado’s government is proactive in ensuring that public safety professionals are adequately compensated. This includes regular salary reviews and adjustments to stay competitive with national standards.
- Education and experience:
- Having a degree and specialized skills or years of experience may affect your salary level. Some criminal justice and corrections careers may not require a degree to enter the field, but earning a degree may take you further in both advancement on the job and salary level.
How do I know if I am being paid fairly in Colorado?
Determining if you are being paid equitably and fairly for your work in Colorado involves several steps. Here are some strategies to assess and ensure fair compensation:
Research salary data
- Use online salary tools: Use online resources like Glassdoor, Payscale and the BLS to research average salaries for your role in Colorado. These platforms provide information on typical pay ranges based on job title, industry and location.
- Read industry reports: Look for industry-specific salary reports that provide detailed compensation data. For example, the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) publishes salary surveys for cyber security professionals.
Consider local cost of living
- Use cost of living calculators: Tools like the MIT Living Wage Calculator can help you understand how your salary compares to the cost of living in your area. Ensure your salary allows you to cover basic expenses such as housing, healthcare, transportation and food.
- Housing costs: Since housing is a significant expense, compare your salary against local housing costs in Colorado cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs.
Evaluate job responsibilities and experience
- Job description comparison: Compare your job responsibilities with standard job descriptions in your field to ensure you are compensated for the level of responsibility you handle.
- Experience and education: Consider your experience, education and certifications. Higher qualifications and more experience typically justify higher pay.
Check with professional associations
- Salary surveys: Professional associations often conduct salary surveys and publish compensation reports. For example, the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) and the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar (CCDB) may provide insights into fair compensation for law enforcement and legal roles.
- Networking: Engage with peers through professional associations to discuss compensation and gain a better understanding of salary norms.
Assess company benefits and perks
- Total compensation: Consider the total compensation package, including benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, bonuses and paid time off. A lower base salary may be offset by generous benefits.
- Work-life balance: Evaluate non-monetary benefits like flexible working hours, remote work options and professional development opportunities.
Review annual salary increases
- Performance-based raises: Ensure that your employer offers regular performance reviews and salary increases based on merit. This indicates a commitment to fair compensation practices.
- Market adjustments: Check if your employer adjusts salaries based on market trends and inflation.
Consult with HR or a career counselor
- HR discussions: Have an open discussion with your HR department about salary benchmarks for your role within the company and the industry.
- Career counseling: Consider consulting with a career counselor or compensation expert who can provide personalized advice and help you negotiate your salary.
Re-negotiate your salary
- Preparation: Prepare to negotiate your salary by gathering all relevant data, including salary benchmarks, cost of living information and a list of your accomplishments and contributions.
- Timing: Choose the right time to negotiate, such as during annual reviews, after a major accomplishment or when offered a new job.
- If all else fails: File a complaint with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
Education and training
Education and training requirements for criminal justice and cyber security careers in Colorado are largely consistent with national standards. However, there are state-specific programs, certifications and training opportunities that can provide an edge in the job market. It’s beneficial for individuals to seek additional certifications and practical experience to enhance their qualifications and career prospects.
Take a look at education requirements for specific criminal justice fields:
Law enforcement officers
Education requirements:
- Minimum education: Typically, a high school diploma or GED is required.
- Preferred education: An associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field can be advantageous.
Training requirements:
- Police academy: Must complete training at a Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified academy. This includes courses in law, ethics, physical training, firearms and emergency response.
- Field training: Post-academy field training with experienced officers to gain practical experience.
State-specific requirements:
- POST certification: Required for all law enforcement officers in Colorado. This includes passing a certification exam after academy training.
Paralegals
Education requirements:
- Minimum education: An associate degree in paralegal studies.
- Preferred education: A bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or a related field, or a post-baccalaureate certificate for those who already hold a degree in another field.
Training requirements:
- ABA-Approved Programs: Completing an American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal program is highly recommended.
- Internships: Practical experience through internships or work-study programs is beneficial.
State-specific requirements:
- No state licensing: Colorado does not have specific licensing requirements for paralegals, but certification through organizations like National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) can enhance job prospects.
Correctional officers
Education requirements:
- Minimum education: High school diploma or GED.
- Preferred education: Some positions may prefer candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology or a related field.
Training requirements:
- Basic training program: Completion of a training program at a correctional officer training academy. This includes courses in security procedures, inmate management and legal issues.
- On-the-job training: New officers undergo a period of supervised on-the-job training.
State-specific requirements:
- Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) training: Training specific to state-run facilities, which may include additional state-specific policies and procedures.
Cyber security analysts
Education requirements:
- Minimum education: A bachelor’s degree in cyber security, computer science, information technology or a related field.
- Preferred education: Master’s degrees or specialized certifications can be advantageous.
Training requirements:
- Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and CompTIA Security+ are highly recommended.
- Hands-on experience: Internships, work-study programs or prior IT experience are valuable.
State-specific requirements:
- Specialized training programs: Colorado may offer specific training programs through state universities or community colleges tailored to local industry needs, particularly in areas like defense and aerospace in Colorado Springs.
Forensic science technicians
Education requirements:
- Minimum education: A bachelor’s degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry or a related field.
- Preferred education: Advanced degrees (master’s or doctorate) can be beneficial for specialized roles or career advancement.
Training requirements:
- On-the-job training: Practical training in crime laboratories to gain hands-on experience with forensic techniques and equipment.
- Certifications: Professional certifications from organizations like the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) can enhance credibility and job prospects.
State-specific requirements:
- Continuing education: Some employers may require ongoing education and training specific to Colorado’s legal and procedural standards.
Cost of living in Colorado
The cost of living in Colorado is relatively high, especially in urban areas. Housing costs are a significant factor, with median home prices and rental rates well above the national average. However, the state offers a robust job market, particularly in growing industries like tech, tourism and outdoor recreation, which may provide ample employment opportunities. Those pursuing criminal justice education or careers should carefully consider the cost of living in the specific area when evaluating job offers. Additionally, Colorado’s quality of life, characterized by its natural beauty, recreational opportunities and educational presence, can be attractive to many, offsetting some of the higher living costs.
Cost of living overview:
RentCafe says the cost of living in Colorado varies depending on the city you live in, but in general Colorado is 6% higher than the national average as far as cost of living, with housing at 20% higher. The most expensive city in Colorado is Boulder, where the cost of living is 28% higher compared to the national average. Glenwood Springs, which is in close proximity to Denver, Steamboat Springs and Aspen, comes in at 16% higher.
Cities with the highest cost of living:
Cities in Colorado that have the highest costs of living (besides Boulder and Glenwood Springs) compared to the national average include Denver (11% higher), Colorado Springs (8% higher), Westminster (8% higher) and Grand Junction (2% higher).
Cities with the lowest cost of living:
Only Pueblo compares lower than the state and national cost of living average at 8% lower than the state average and 2% lower than the national average.
Colorado professional groups and associations
Professional groups in criminal justice in Colorado provide a wide range of support and services for their members, including professional development, networking opportunities, advocacy, resources and educational programs. Here are just four examples of groups and what they do and the support they offer:
Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP): The CACP supports law enforcement leaders through professional development and advocacy.
Colorado Jail Association (CJA): The CJA supports ethical standards among members and others engaged in the profession of detentions and corrections.
Colorado Criminal Defense Bar (CCDB): CCDB combats the inequities, discrimination and inequalities of the criminal legal system by giving members tools to confront bias.
Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA): RMPA supports paralegals with educational programs and professional development opportunities.
This criminal justice salary guide for Colorado strives to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the many career fields under the criminal justice umbrella in the state. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, whether it be in law enforcement, the legal justice system, corrections or forensics and cyber security. Understand how to negotiate salaries and learn to set realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.