Program Manager Jobs in Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado$153,600 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Program Manager Jobs in Denver

Looking for a Program Manager job in Denver? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Program Manager in Denver, CO.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Denver has a strong job market for Program Managers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Program Manager Salary in Denver

Entry Level
$97,920
Median
$153,600
Senior Level
$220,800

Program Manager salaries in Denver are 28% above the national average, reflecting the competitive local market.

Purchasing power in Denver is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Program ManagementCross-functional LeadershipStrategic PlanningRisk ManagementStakeholder Communication

Program Manager Job Market in Denver

Denver, CO is one of America's premier job markets for Program Manager professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 716K residents, Denver balances career opportunities with quality of life. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Program Manager roles across various sectors. The market for Program Manager positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Program Managers in Denver

State of ColoradoCity of DenverRTDDenver Public Schools

Major employers hiring Program Managers in Denver include State of Colorado, City of Denver, RTD, Denver Public Schools. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Program Managers in Denver

Living in Denver as a Program Manager means navigating a cost of living that's above the national average at 128% of baseline. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,900/month. At median Program Manager salary, housing is quite affordable at 15% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,500/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

128
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.9K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 1
Market Size

Commuting as a Program Manager in Denver

Denver RTD light rail system, bus network, and commuter rail to airport. The average commute time is 27 minutes. Light rail reaches major employment centers including DTC. A Line connects downtown to Denver International Airport.

Best neighborhoods for Program Managers in Denver: LoDo (Lower Downtown) (Historic district with tech startups); RiNo (River North) (Trendy area with tech companies); Denver Tech Center (Suburban tech campus corridor). LoDo (Lower Downtown) is particularly popular among Program Manager professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Colorado

Colorado has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Program Managers

The job outlook for Program Managers in Denver is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. As a Tier 1 market, Denver typically has more openings but also more competition from experienced professionals. In-demand skills include Program Management, Cross-functional Leadership, Strategic Planning, Risk Management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Program Manager salary in Denver, CO?

The average Program Manager salary in Denver, CO is $153,600 per year. Entry-level Program Managers typically start around $97,920, while experienced professionals can earn $220,800 or more. The national average for Program Manager roles is $120,000.

How many Program Manager jobs are available in Denver?

Denver has a robust job market with hundreds of openings for Program Manager professionals. Major employers hiring Program Managers include State of Colorado, City of Denver, RTD, Denver Public Schools. The Technology and Aerospace sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Denver a good city for Program Managers?

Denver is an excellent choice for Program Managers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for business & operations professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Program Managers in Denver?

Top skills for Program Managers in Denver include Program Management, Cross-functional Leadership, Strategic Planning, Risk Management, Stakeholder Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Program Managers in Denver?

Denver's cost of living is above the national average (128% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,900/month. Purchasing power in Denver is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Program Managers in Denver?

Denver RTD light rail system, bus network, and commuter rail to airport. The average commute is 27 minutes. Light rail reaches major employment centers including DTC.

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