Career Guide: Marketing Managers in Lakewood, Colorado

Welcome to Lakewood, Colorado—a hidden gem in the Denver metro area that offers the career opportunities of a major city with the community feel of a classic suburb. As a local, I’ve watched Lakewood evolve from a post-war bedroom community into a diverse, economically vibrant hub. For a Marketing Manager, this means a competitive salary, a robust job market, and a quality of life that’s hard to beat in the West.

This guide cuts through the fluff. We’ll use hard data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, and local market intelligence to give you a true picture of what your career and life in Lakewood, CO, would look like. Let’s get to it.

The Salary Picture: Where Lakewood Stands

Marketing Managers in Lakewood are well-compensated, but context is everything. Let’s break down the numbers.

The median salary for Marketing Managers in Lakewood is $160,220 per year, with an hourly rate of $77.03. This is notably higher than the national average of $157,620. However, Colorado is a major hub for marketing, advertising, and tech, so comparing Lakewood to other Colorado cities is crucial.

Here’s how Lakewood stacks up in the broader Front Range market:

City	Median Salary	Jobs in Metro	10-Year Job Growth
Lakewood, CO	$160,220	311	8%
Boulder, CO	$155,900	285	12%
Denver, CO	$164,100	1,200+	9%
Colorado Springs, CO	$148,750	190	7%

Insider Insight: Lakewood’s salary is strong, but it’s important to note that you’ll likely be working for a company with a Denver mailing address but a Lakewood operational base (like many in the Belmar area). The 8% projected job growth is solid, reflecting the city’s shift from a commuter town to a self-sustaining economic center.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your salary will vary significantly based on your experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Lakewood market:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Salary Range (Lakewood)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-3 years	$85,000 - $115,000	Campaign execution, social media management, data reporting, supporting senior staff.
Mid-Level	4-7 years	$120,000 - $150,000	Owning marketing channels, managing budgets, leading small teams, strategy development.
Senior-Level	8-12 years	$155,000 - $185,000	Department leadership, integrated strategy, P&L responsibility, managing agencies/vendors.
Expert/Leadership	12+ years	$185,000+	C-suite collaboration, corporate strategy, M&A marketing, building high-performance teams.

My Take: The jump from Mid-Level to Senior is where you see the biggest salary bump in Lakewood. Companies here are hungry for managers who can prove ROI, especially in the e-commerce and B2B tech sectors that are quietly thriving in Jefferson County.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $160,220 salary sounds fantastic, but Lakewood’s cost of living requires a reality check. Let’s calculate your take-home pay and see if homeownership is on the table.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Filer, No Dependents):

• Gross Monthly Income: $13,352
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, CO State, FICA): ~$3,350
• Net (Take-Home) Pay: ~$10,000

Monthly Expenses (Lakewood-Specific):

• Average 1BR Rent: $1,835
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet, Water): $250
• Groceries & Household: $500
• Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Car Payment - Denver metro average): $600
• Health Insurance (Employer-sponsored plan): $300
• Entertainment/Dining Out: $500
• Savings/Investments: $2,000
• Miscellaneous (Personal Care, etc.): $350

Total Monthly Expenses: ~$6,335
Remaining Discretionary Income: ~$3,665

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
The median home price in Lakewood is approximately $560,000. With a 20% down payment ($112,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% would have a monthly payment of $2,995 (principal & interest). Add property taxes ($350), insurance ($200), and potential HOA fees, and you’re looking at **$3,550/month**.

Verdict: Yes, a Marketing Manager earning the median salary can afford to buy a home in Lakewood, but it requires a significant upfront investment and will consume about 35-40% of your net take-home pay. Many professionals in this bracket choose to rent in the early years to build savings and flexibility, especially with the average 1BR rent at $1,835 being relatively manageable.

Where the Jobs Are: Lakewood's Major Employers

Lakewood’s job market is a mix of healthcare, education, tech, and retail. Marketing roles here are often with corporate headquarters or regional offices that need strategic talent to reach the Denver metro population.

1. Intermountain Health (Lakewood’s St. Anthony Hospital): A major healthcare system. Marketing roles focus on community health, patient acquisition, and provider relations. Hiring Trend: Consistent. They value local insights for community campaigns.
2. Colorado Christian University (CCU): A large private university in Lakewood. They need marketing managers for student recruitment, donor relations, and digital marketing. Hiring Trend: Steady, with a focus on digital and data-driven enrollment strategies.
3. Charles Schwab (Denver/Lakewood Metro): While their HQ is in Lone Tree, their significant presence in the Denver metro creates many marketing jobs. Lakewood residents often commute here. Roles are in brand marketing, financial advisor recruitment, and digital experience. Hiring Trend: Strong, but competitive.
4. Lockheed Martin: With a massive facility in nearby Littleton, Lockheed Martin is a key employer for Lakewood residents. Marketing roles here are highly specialized—focused on government, B2B, and corporate communications. Hiring Trend: Stable, with a need for managers who can navigate complex, compliance-heavy industries.
5. The Belmar Shopping District: While not a single employer, the 80+ stores and restaurants in this downtown Lakewood hub are managed by a central entity. Marketing roles here are retail-focused, event-driven, and community-oriented. Hiring Trend: Seasonal and project-based, but great for those wanting hands-on retail marketing experience.
6. TTEC (TeleTech): A global customer experience company with a major hub in Lakewood. They hire for marketing managers focused on digital acquisition, CX strategy, and client marketing. Hiring Trend: High volume, often for contract-to-hire roles.
7. Local Tech & Startups: Lakewood is home to a growing number of tech companies in the "Colorado Front Range" corridor. Look for companies in the Denver West Office Park and near Ralston Creek. These roles are often in B2B SaaS and require a mix of demand gen and brand building.

Insider Tip: The Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is a great resource for tracking which local companies are expanding and receiving incentives. Many of these companies are actively hiring marketing talent to support their growth.

Getting Licensed in CO

Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a state-specific license required to practice as a Marketing Manager. This is a significant advantage for mobility.

However, there are relevant certifications and registrations:

• Professional Certifications: While not required, certifications from the American Marketing Association (AMA) or Digital Marketing Institute (e.g., Professional Certified Marketer) are highly regarded. Cost: $300-$1,000 for exams and study materials.
• Business Licensing: If you plan to freelance or start your own consultancy, you’ll need a Business License from the City of Lakewood. The application is straightforward and can be done online. Fee: ~$50.
• Timeline: There is no "timeline" to get started. You can apply for jobs immediately. If you choose to pursue a certification, plan for 3-6 months of study and exam scheduling.

Key Resource: The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) oversees all professional licenses in the state. A quick search for "Marketing" on their website will confirm no specific license is needed, but you can find rules for related fields like advertising or public relations if your role blurs those lines.

Best Neighborhoods for Marketing Managers

Lakewood’s neighborhoods offer distinct vibes, all with easy access to major employers. Here’s a local’s breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Insider Tip
Belmar	Urban-chic, walkable, retail/dining hub. 20-min drive to Denver CBD.	$1,900	Ideal for those who want to live where they work. The Belmar park district is a huge perk.
Green Mountain	Family-friendly, outdoor-focused. 15-25 min commute to Denver.	$1,750	Perfect for nature lovers. Close to Red Rocks State Park and hiking trails. Great for work-life balance.
Lakewood Highlands	Quiet, established, good schools. 20-30 min commute.	$1,650	Traditional suburban feel. More space for the money. A popular choice for managers starting families.
Applewood	Upscale, hilly, mature trees. 15-20 min to Golden/Denver.	$1,800	One of Lakewood’s most desirable areas. You’ll find more single-family homes here.
Wadsworth Corridor	Affordable, convenient, mix of old and new. 15-25 min commute.	$1,550	Great access to light rail (W Line). Offers more affordable options while staying centrally located.

My Take: If you’re single and love a social scene, Belmar is unbeatable. If you’re buying a home and want community, Green Mountain or Applewood offer the best quality of life. For commuters, living near the W Line light rail station can make getting to downtown Denver a breeze.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Lakewood is not a career dead-end. It’s a strategic launchpad.

• Specialty Premiums: Marketing Managers with expertise in B2B technology, healthcare marketing, or data analytics (SQL, Tableau) can command a 10-20% premium over the median salary. The local market values these hard skills.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is advancing within a company to Director or VP of Marketing. Another common trajectory is moving from a local employer to a larger Denver-based or national company. The 8% job growth indicates plenty of upward mobility.
• 10-Year Outlook: Marketing is evolving rapidly. Lakewood’s proximity to Denver’s tech and aerospace hubs means managers who upskill in AI-driven marketing, marketing automation, and omnichannel strategy will be in the highest demand. The city’s own growth (e.g., the revitalization of the Old Town area) will also create new marketing opportunities for local government and real estate development.

The Verdict: Is Lakewood Right for You?

Lakewood offers a compelling package, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s the honest breakdown:

Pros	Cons
Strong Salary: $160,220 median is above national average.	Housing Costs: Home prices and rent are high, though manageable on a marketing salary.
Prime Location: Easy access to Denver’s job market and amenities without the big-city rent.	Competition: You’re competing with talent from the entire Denver metro. Standing out requires a strong portfolio.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Unbeatable access to mountains, parks, and trails for work-life balance.	Traffic: The I-25 and I-70 corridors can be congested; commute times vary.
Diverse Employers: From healthcare to tech, you’re not locked into one industry.	Fewer "Big Name" HQs: While you have access to them, most Fortune 500 HQs are in Denver or Boulder.
No State License: Easy to start your career or move to a new job without bureaucratic hurdles.	Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Risk: The 300+ days of sun are real, but winter can be long and grey for some.

Final Recommendation: Lakewood is an excellent choice for Marketing Managers who value a balance between career growth and quality of life. It’s ideal for those who want to be close to the action in Denver but prefer a community-oriented home base. If you’re an early-career professional, it offers a manageable cost of living relative to salary. For mid-to-senior level managers, it’s a strategic place to buy a home and build a long-term career.

FAQs

1. Is it realistic to commute from Lakewood to downtown Denver?
Yes, and it’s very common. The drive can take 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. The West Rail Line (W Line) light rail is a reliable alternative, running from Lakewood directly into downtown Denver in about 30 minutes. Many marketing professionals do this daily.

2. Do I need a car in Lakewood?
For most residents, yes. While Belmar and some downtown areas are walkable, Lakewood is spread out. Public transit exists but isn’t as comprehensive as in denser cities. If you live near a light rail station and work in downtown Denver, you could manage with a bike, car share, and transit.

3. How competitive is the job market for Marketing Managers here?
It’s moderately competitive. With 311 jobs in the metro, there are opportunities, but so are qualified candidates. The key is tailoring your resume to local industries (healthcare, tech, retail) and networking. Attending events hosted by the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce or Colorado Technology Association can give you an edge.

4. What’s the dating/social scene like for professionals in their 30s and 40s?
Strong. Lakewood itself is family-oriented, but you’re a short drive from Denver’s vibrant LoDo (Lower Downtown) and RiNo (River North) districts, which are packed with professionals. Locally, the Belmar area has a growing scene of bars, breweries, and restaurants that attract young professionals.

5. Are there opportunities for freelance or consulting work?
Absolutely. The Cost of Living Index (105.5) means local businesses are often looking for cost-effective marketing support. Platforms like Upwork and LinkedIn can help you find local clients. Remember to secure a Lakewood business license if you go full-time freelance.

Data Sources: Salary data and job growth figures are based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook for Marketing Managers in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metro Area. Cost of living and rent data are from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and Zillow Research. Employer information is compiled from local business journals and the Jefferson County EDC.