Career Guide for Human Resources Specialists in Lakewood, CO

As someone who’s watched the Denver metro’s job market shift for over a decade, I can tell you Lakewood isn’t just a “suburb”—it’s a strategic career anchor. It sits in the geographic sweet spot of the Front Range, with the mountains to the west and Denver’s core just a 20-minute light rail ride away. For Human Resources Specialists, it offers a unique blend of large healthcare systems, public sector stability, and growing tech firms without the brutal competition or sky-high rents of downtown Denver. This guide cuts through the fluff with real data, local employer insights, and the kind of neighborhood intel you won’t find on a generic job board.

The Salary Picture: Where Lakewood Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter. The median salary for a Human Resources Specialist in Lakewood is $68,766 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $33.06. This sits just above the national average of $67,650, a solid indicator that the local market values HR talent. The broader metro area (which includes Denver, Lakewood, and surrounding cities) has approximately 311 HR Specialist jobs listed at any given time, and the field is projected to see 8% growth over the next 10 years. That’s slightly above the national average, driven by Colorado’s continued population influx and the expansion of healthcare and professional services.

Here’s how salaries break down by experience level. Note that these are localized estimates based on Lakewood and Denver metro postings.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Field	Lakewood Salary Range (Annual)
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$52,000 - $61,000
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$65,000 - $78,000
Senior	8-15 years	$75,000 - $92,000
Expert/Lead	15+ years	$90,000 - $115,000+

Local Insight: Salaries in Lakewood are often more competitive for mid-career and senior roles than in downtown Denver. Why? Local employers like hospitals and government agencies prefer to keep top talent close, avoiding the commute drain. Entry-level roles pay well relative to cost of living, but the real jump happens after you hit the 5-year mark.

Comparison to Other Colorado Cities:

• Denver: Salaries are typically 5-10% higher ($72,000+ median), but cost of living is 15-20% higher. The grind of downtown life isn’t for everyone.
• Boulder: Median HR salary is closer to $71,000, but rent and home prices are astronomically higher. Commute to Lakewood isn’t practical.
• Colorado Springs: Salaries are slightly lower ($64,000 median), but so is the cost of living. The job market is more military/government-focused.
• Lakewood’s Edge: It hits the Goldilocks zone—Denver proximity without Denver prices.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $68,766 salary sounds solid, but let’s see what it means in Lakewood. Colorado has a flat state income tax of 4.4%, and federal taxes will take a significant chunk. After taxes, your take-home pay will be roughly $52,000 - $54,000 annually, or about $4,300 - $4,500 per month.

Now, factor in housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Lakewood is $1,835/month. This leaves you with roughly $2,465 - $2,665 per month for all other expenses—a comfortable, but not extravagant, budget.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an HR Specialist ($68,766 Salary):

• After-Tax Monthly Income: ~$4,400
• Rent (1BR Average): -$1,835
• Utilities, Internet, Phone: -$250 (Denver area averages)
• Car Payment/Insurance/Public Transit: -$400 (Lakewood requires a car; average insurance is high due to hail risk)
• Groceries & Dining: -$750
• Healthcare (after insurance split): -$300
• Student Loans/Debt: -$400 (varies)
• Savings & Discretionary: ~$465

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
The median home price in Lakewood is approximately $475,000. With a $68,766 salary, a 20% down payment ($95,000) is a major hurdle. A 30-year mortgage at 6.5% interest would be around $2,400/month (PITI), which is over 50% of your take-home pay—not affordable on this salary alone. Buying is feasible if you have dual income, a substantial down payment from family, or have been promoted to a Senior HR Specialist role ($75k+). Many locals rent well into their 30s and invest in retirement accounts instead.

Where the Jobs Are: Lakewood's Major Employers

Lakewood’s economy isn’t dominated by one industry; it’s a diversified mix. HR roles are concentrated in healthcare, public sector, and professional services. Here are the key players:

1. St. Anthony Hospital (Centura Health): A massive employer. They hire HR Specialists for everything from benefits administration to employee relations. They’re always growing—their new medical office buildings near the Belmar district create steady openings. Hiring is often internal, so networking on LinkedIn with current HR staff is key.
2. Lakewood City Government: The City of Lakewood is a stable, long-term employer with excellent benefits. They need HR Generalists for their large public workforce (over 1,000 employees). Jobs are posted on their official website, and the process is slow but secure. Insider tip: They prioritize candidates with local government experience or a PHR/SPHR certification.
3. Colorado State University Global (CSU Global): Their headquarters is in Lakewood. They’re a major employer of HR professionals for their remote and local faculty/staff. They value tech-savvy HR specialists who understand online education models. Growth is steady as they expand their degree programs.
4. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL): Located in nearby Golden, but a huge draw for Lakewood residents. NREL’s HR department focuses on scientific and technical recruitment. Salaries are high, but competition is fierce. Having a specialization in technical recruitment or clearances is a bonus.
5. American Family Insurance: Their massive Lakewood campus (West) employs hundreds of HR professionals. They’re known for strong internal mobility and training programs. They hire for corporate HR roles, not just regional.
6. Lutheran Medical Center (now part of SCL Health/Intermountain): Another major healthcare player. Their HR department is large and handles everything from clinical to administrative hiring. They have a strong culture of promoting from within.
7. Private Sector & Tech: Companies like Lockheed Martin (headquartered in Littleton) and Charles Schwab (major presence in Lone Tree) are within a 30-minute commute and employ local HR talent. Remote work has made Lakewood a base for these professionals.

Hiring Trends: Post-pandemic, there’s a strong demand for HR specialists with expertise in remote/hybrid work policies, DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, and employee wellness programs. Healthcare and public sector employers are the most stable; tech is more volatile but offers higher salary ceilings.

Getting Licensed in CO

Colorado does not require a specific state license to work as an HR Specialist. However, professional certifications are the industry standard for career advancement and higher pay.

Key Certifications & Requirements:

• PHR (Professional in Human Resources) or SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources): Offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI). Requires a combination of education and work experience (e.g., a bachelor’s degree + 2 years for PHR).
• SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP: Offered by the Society for Human Resource Management. Similar to HRCI, focused on practical, real-world HR competencies.

Cost & Timeline:

• Exam Fee: $395 - $495 (depending on membership status in SHRM or HRCI).
• Study Materials: $200 - $500 (online courses, books).
• Timeline to Get Started: You can sit for the exam at any time. Most professionals need 3-6 months of dedicated study after meeting the experience requirements. The exams are offered year-round at testing centers (including one in Wheat Ridge, just east of Lakewood).

Local Tip: The Denver Chapter of SHRM is very active. Join for networking events, study groups, and mentorship. Many Lakewood employers will cover the cost of certification if you agree to stay for a set period.

Best Neighborhoods for Human Resources Specialists

Where you live in Lakewood affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
Belmar	Urban-chic, walkable, right next to St. Anthony Hospital. 15-min drive to downtown Denver.	$1,900 - $2,100	Young professionals who want a social scene and a short healthcare commute.
Lakewood Heights/West Colfax	Quiet, residential, older homes. 20-min commute to downtown (or 30 mins via W Line light rail).	$1,650 - $1,850	Those seeking affordability, space, and a family-friendly vibe.
Green Mountain	Scenic, near Red Rocks. More suburban, with golf courses and trails. 25-min commute.	$1,750 - $1,950	Outdoor enthusiasts who want a balance of nature and city access.
Virginia Vale/Overland	Classic Lakewood, mix of apartments and single-family homes. Central location, 15-20 mins to most jobs.	$1,700 - $1,900	Practical commuters who want a central, no-fuss base.
Columbine	Southwest Lakewood, very suburban. 30-min commute to downtown, but closer to Chatfield State Park.	$1,600 - $1,800	Those prioritizing space, lower rent, and don't mind a longer commute.

Insider Tip: The W Line light rail is a game-changer for commuting to downtown Denver or Golden. If you work near Union Station or the Capitol Hill area, living near a W Line stop (like Oak Station in Belmar) can save you hundreds in parking and car wear-and-tear.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your $68,766 starting median is just the entry point. Strategic growth in Lakewood can lead to $90,000 - $115,000+ within 10 years.

Specialty Premiums:

• Benefits Administration: Specializing in complex corporate benefits (especially in healthcare or tech) can add $10,000 - $15,000 to your salary.
• Recruitment (Tech/Healthcare): Clinical or technical recruiters command higher pay. In Lakewood, healthcare recruitment is particularly lucrative.
• HR Technology (HRIS): Expertise in systems like Workday or Oracle HCM is in high demand. This can push you into the $85,000+ range faster than generalist roles.
• Labor Relations in Public Sector: The City of Lakewood and school districts need specialists who understand union contracts. This is a niche but stable path.

10-Year Outlook:
The 8% job growth is a positive sign. Lakewood’s proximity to major research hubs (NREL, Lockheed) and the booming healthcare sector means HR roles will remain in demand. The rise of remote work may reduce some local office jobs, but it also opens Lakewood as a base for remote corporate HR roles. The key to advancement will be specialization and certification. The generalist role is being automated; the strategic partner who can align HR with business goals is not.

The Verdict: Is Lakewood Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Above-par pay for the cost of living compared to Denver.	Car dependency. Public transit is improving but not comprehensive.
Diverse employer base (healthcare, gov, tech, energy).	Competitive entry-level market. You’ll need a degree or solid experience.
Access to the Front Range. World-class hiking and skiing are 45 mins away.	Bought-and-sold homes are expensive. Long-term wealth building is tough without dual income or promotion.
Lower stress than downtown Denver. Less traffic, more parking.	Winters are long and gray. Seasonal affective disorder is real; invest in sunlight lamps.
Strong community feel with local shops and sports leagues.	Limited nightlife. You’ll go to Denver or Golden for concerts and trendy bars.

Final Recommendation:
Lakewood is an excellent choice for a mid-career HR Specialist ($60k-$85k) who wants a balanced Colorado lifestyle without the premium price tag. It’s ideal if you work in healthcare, public sector, or a stable corporate role with a major company. It’s not the best choice if you’re entry-level and need a very low cost of living, or if you’re a high-roller aiming for a six-figure salary in a competitive tech field. For the average HR professional, Lakewood offers a sustainable, rewarding career path with real Colorado quality of life.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car in Lakewood?
Yes, for 90% of residents. While the W Line light rail covers the northern corridor (from Golden to downtown Denver), most healthcare jobs (St. Anthony, Lutheran) and residential areas require a car. Budget $500/month for car payment, insurance, and gas.

2. How competitive is the job market for HR in Lakewood?
It’s competitive but not cutthroat. There are 311 jobs in the metro, but the applicant pool is smaller than in Denver. Having a certification (PHR/SHRM-CP) and local connections (via the Denver SHRM chapter) gives you a significant edge. Tailor your resume for the healthcare sector—it’s the largest local employer.

3. What’s the best way to network in Lakewood?
Join the Denver SHRM chapter and attend their monthly meetings (often at the Colorado Convention Center or virtual). For healthcare roles, connect with HR managers at St. Anthony Hospital and Lutheran Medical Center on LinkedIn. The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce also hosts mixers that are surprisingly useful for corporate HR professionals.

4. Is remote work common for HR Specialists here?
Post-2020, yes. Many Lakewood-based companies (like CSU Global and American Family) offer hybrid or fully remote options for HR roles. However, local employers in healthcare and government still prefer in-person presence for many positions. It’s wise to target “hybrid” roles when searching.

5. How does the cost of living compare to national averages?
With a Cost of Living Index of 105.5 (vs. US avg of 100), Lakewood is 5.5% more expensive than the national average. However, it’s significantly cheaper than Denver proper (index ~115) and Boulder (index ~130). Your $68,766 salary goes further here than in those two cities.

Data sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Zillow Rent Data, Sperling’s BestPlaces, HR Certification Institute, and local market analysis (2023-2024).