Project Manager in Lakewood, CO

The Salary Picture: Where Lakewood Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Lakewood isn't just Denver's quieter, more affordable sibling—it's a hub in its own right, especially for project managers in the aerospace, tech, and healthcare sectors. The data confirms this: the median salary for a project manager in Lakewood is $102,951/year, which translates to a solid $49.5/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $101,280/year, making Lakewood a financially attractive destination for the profession. The metro area hosts 311 project manager jobs, with a 10-year job growth projection of 6%. This growth isn't explosive, but it's steady and reliable, reflecting Lakewood's stable economic base.

To understand where you fit, let's break down the salary by experience level. This isn't from a generic national survey; it's calibrated to the local market, where senior roles at major employers like Lockheed Martin or Centura Health command premiums.

Table: Project Manager Salary by Experience Level (Lakewood, CO)

Experience Level	Typical Years	Salary Range (Annual)	Local Context
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$75,000 - $88,000	Often found in smaller tech firms or construction firms supporting the expanding housing market.
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$95,000 - $115,000	The sweet spot. Most common in healthcare project management (e.g., hospital expansions) and mid-sized tech.
Senior	8-15 years	$115,000 - $135,000	Typically at aerospace giants, major construction firms, or managing large-scale IT implementations.
Expert/Director	15+ years	$135,000 - $160,000+	Often at the director level in major employers or specialized consulting.

When compared to other Colorado cities, Lakewood holds a unique position. Boulder, with its tech and academic focus, often sees higher salaries but at a significantly higher cost of living. Colorado Springs, with its military and defense contractor focus, has a comparable salary range but a different industry mix. Denver, the state's economic engine, has more jobs and slightly higher top-end salaries, but the commute and cost of living there are punishing. Lakewood offers a compelling balance: near the opportunities of Denver without the downtown price tag.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the numbers. With a median salary of $102,951/year, your take-home pay will be approximately $77,500 annually after federal, state, and Social Security taxes (estimating a single filer with no dependents). That's about $6,458 per month. Now, factor in the local cost of living.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lakewood is $1,835/month. The Cost of Living Index is 105.5 (US average = 100), meaning you'll pay about 5.5% more for goods and services than the national average, though this is still far more manageable than Denver's index, which regularly exceeds 120.

Here’s a practical monthly budget breakdown for a Project Manager earning the median salary:

• Net Monthly Income: $6,458
• Rent (1BR Average): -$1,835
• Utilities (Est. for Lakewood): -$250 (Note: heating costs in winter are a real factor)
• Groceries & Household: -$600 (Reflects the 105.5 COL index)
• Transportation (Car Payment, Insurance, Gas): -$600 (Lakewood is car-dependent; public transit exists but is limited)
• Health Insurance (Employer Plan): -$350
• Discretionary / Savings: $2,823

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, but with caution. The median home price in Lakewood is approximately $550,000. With a 20% down payment ($110,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates (~7%) would have a monthly payment of around $2,930 before taxes and insurance. This is a significant portion of the take-home pay. However, for dual-income households or those with a larger down payment, it's achievable. Many project managers I know start in Lakewood to save, then purchase in neighboring, more affordable areas like Arvada or Wheat Ridge.

Where the Jobs Are: Lakewood's Major Employers

Lakewood's job market is anchored by a mix of aerospace, healthcare, public sector, and tech. Unlike Denver's sprawling downtown, opportunities here are concentrated in specific corridors that locals know well.

1. Lockheed Martin (Waterton Campus): The undisputed giant. Located in the southwest part of Lakewood, this campus is a global hub for aerospace and defense projects. They are consistently hiring project managers for F-35, space systems, and other programs. They offer premium salaries and benefits but are highly competitive. Insider Tip: Networking through the local chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI) Colorado Chapter is crucial here.

2. St. Anthony Hospital (Centura Health): A major healthcare provider in the heart of Lakewood. With ongoing expansions and the constant need for clinical and IT projects, they are a steady employer for healthcare project managers. They value PMP certification and experience with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems.

3. Jefferson County Government: Located in the Civic Center, the county is a significant employer for public sector project managers. They handle everything from infrastructure and road projects to IT upgrades. Salaries are competitive, and the work-life balance is typically very good. Hiring is tied to budget cycles and bond measures.

4. Charles Schwab (Englewood/Lakewood Border): While its headquarters is technically in Englewood, the massive campus is a stone's throw from Lakewood's eastern border. They hire project managers for financial technology (FinTech) projects, office moves, and internal process improvements. The culture is corporate but modern.

5. Terumo BCT (Lakewood): A global leader in medical device manufacturing. They require project managers for R&D, regulatory compliance, and manufacturing process improvements. A great fit for those with a medical, engineering, or quality assurance background.

6. Tech Startups & Mid-Sized Firms: The Belmar and Denver West areas are hubs for tech companies. Firms like LogRhythm (cybersecurity) and numerous SaaS companies have a presence here. These roles often offer more growth potential and equity but can be less stable than the corporate giants.

Hiring Trends: There's a strong demand for project managers with hybrid skills—project management combined with knowledge of Agile/Scrum, cloud computing (AWS/Azure), and experience in regulated environments (defense, healthcare). The 6% job growth is heavily skewed towards these specialties.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

Colorado does not have a state-specific project management license. The profession is regulated through certifications and industry-specific requirements. However, there are critical certifications and state-specific contexts you must understand.

1. PMP® (Project Management Professional): Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this is the gold standard. In Lakewood, especially at Lockheed Martin, St. Anthony, and in tech, having your PMP is often a requirement for senior roles. The exam cost is $405 for members, $555 for non-members. Budget an additional $1,000 - $2,000 for study materials and courses. The timeline to prepare and pass is typically 3-6 months.

2. State-Specific Requirements: If you work on public works projects (roads, bridges, utilities) or in construction management, you may need a Colorado Professional Engineer (PE) license if you are approving designs or taking responsibility for engineering work. This is managed by the Colorado Board of Licensure for Architects, Professional Engineers, and Professional Land Surveyors (AELPS). The process involves passing the FE and PE exams, which can take years. Project managers often work with PEs but don't need the license themselves unless their role directly supervises engineering work.

3. Getting Started: Your first step is to join the local PMI Colorado Chapter. They offer study groups, networking events, and mentorship. For construction-focused roles, familiarize yourself with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) procurement processes, as they are a major player in the region.

Best Neighborhoods for Project Managers

Choosing where to live in Lakewood can define your commute and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s guide:

1. Belmar: This is the walkable, urban core of Lakewood. With its own "downtown" of shops, restaurants, and a cinema, it's popular with younger professionals. Commute to downtown Denver is about 20 minutes via I-25 or 6th Ave. Rent Estimate: A 1BR here runs from $1,800 - $2,200/month. It's ideal for those who want a social scene without downtown prices.

2. Green Mountain: Located in the foothills of the Rockies, this area offers stunning mountain views and a more suburban, family-friendly vibe. It's a short drive to the trails at Lakewood Park or Bear Creek Lake Park. Commute to the Lockheed Martin campus is a breeze (10-15 minutes). Rent Estimate: Slightly higher, around $1,900 - $2,300/month for a 1BR, but you get more space and nature.

3. West Alameda / Sheridan Corridor: This is the classic Lakewood neighborhood. Tree-lined streets, well-kept homes, and a quiet atmosphere. It's central, with easy access to I-25 and I-70. Commute times are reliable. Rent Estimate: More affordable, with 1BR options from $1,600 - $1,900/month. Great for those prioritizing budget and convenience.

4. Wadsworth / Federal Heights: The western part of Lakewood, closer to the mountains. Offers a quieter, more residential feel with good access to the Wadsworth corridor for shopping. Commute to the western employers (Lockheed, Terumo) is very easy. Rent Estimate: Similar to West Alameda, around $1,550 - $1,850/month.

5. Denver West / Marston: Located near the border with Denver and Golden, this area is a mix of apartments, townhomes, and older houses. It's extremely convenient for commuting to Denver, Golden (home of Coors Brewery), or the foothills. Rent Estimate: $1,700 - $2,100/month.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 6% indicates a stable, not explosive, market. To accelerate your career, specialization is key.

• Specialty Premiums: Project managers with certifications in Agile (CSM, PMP-ACP) and experience in cloud migration (AWS, Azure) can command a 10-15% salary premium. In healthcare, knowledge of HL7/FHIR standards is gold. In aerospace, experience with DO-178C (software for airborne systems) is highly valued.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Project Manager to Senior PM to Program Manager or Director of Project Management. In Lakewood, moving into a Program Manager role (overseeing multiple projects) at a major employer like Lockheed Martin or a large hospital system is the most lucrative step. Another path is into Product Management, especially within the tech sector in the Belmar/Denver West area.
• 10-Year Outlook: While growth is modest at 6%, the sector is resilient. Aerospace and healthcare are not going anywhere. The rise of remote work has also increased competition, so local presence and networking remain vital. The key is to avoid becoming a generic PM; specialize in an industry that has a physical presence in the metro area.

The Verdict: Is Lakewood Right for You?

Here’s a balanced look at what to expect.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Access to Denver: You get proximity to a major job market without the $2,400+ Denver rents.	Car Dependent: Public transit (RTD) is limited. You'll need a reliable car for commuting and errands.
Stable Employers: Aerospace and healthcare provide recession-resistant jobs.	Lack of Urban Density: It's a suburb. If you crave high-rise living and 24/7 nightlife, it's not Denver.
Outdoor Access: You are 20-30 minutes from world-class hiking, skiing, and biking in the Rockies.	Competitive Housing Market: While better than Denver, the home-buying market is still tough for first-timers.
Good Schools & Services: The city is well-run with strong public services and community colleges.	Slower Career Growth: The 6% job growth means you must be proactive to advance; opportunities won't fall in your lap.
Strong PM Community: Active PMI chapter and local networking events.	Weather: Winters are real. Snow and ice affect daily life and commute times from November to March.

Final Recommendation: Lakewood is an excellent choice for project managers who value stability, affordability, and outdoor access over the bustle of a dense urban core. It's ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, start a family, or simply live comfortably while working for top-tier employers. If you're an early-career professional who wants the fastest-paced, highest-growth environment, you might start in Denver proper and consider Lakewood in 5-7 years.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car in Lakewood?
Yes, absolutely. While some parts have decent bus service, Lakewood is designed around cars. The $600/month budgeted for transportation should include a car payment, insurance, and gas. Without a car, your job options and lifestyle will be severely limited.

2. What's the commute like from Lakewood to Denver?
It's variable. To downtown Denver, it can be 20-40 minutes via I-25 or 6th Avenue, depending on traffic. To the Denver Tech Center, it's 25-35 minutes. The key is knowing the "back roads" like Wadsworth, Sheridan, and Federal to avoid the worst of I-25 congestion. Most employers in Lakewood have flexible hours to help with this.

3. How important is the PMP certification in Lakewood?
For senior roles at major employers like Lockheed Martin, St. Anthony, or Charles Schwab, it's often a requirement. For mid-sized tech firms or construction companies, it's a strong differentiator. If you're serious about a long-term career here, plan to get your PMP within 2-3 years of arriving.

4. Is the tech scene growing in Lakewood?
Yes, but it's different from Boulder. The growth is in FinTech (Charles Schwab), Cybersecurity (LogRhythm), and HealthTech (Terumo BCT, hospital systems). The Belmar area is the epicenter. Salaries can be high, but they often come with the volatility of the tech sector.

5. What's the best way to network as a new Project Manager in Lakewood?
Join the PMI Colorado Chapter immediately. Attend their monthly meetings (often in Denver or virtual). Also, frequent the Belmar area for after-work networking—it's where many tech and business professionals live and socialize. Don't underestimate the power of a LinkedIn connection request to a PM at Lockheed Martin; the local community is surprisingly tight-knit.