Salaries in Centennial, CO

Here’s the deal about Centennial: it’s not the first place you think of for tech jobs, but the median household income is over $121,000. That’s nearly 30% higher than the national average, all in a city of just over 106,000 people. It quietly punches above its weight.

Let’s talk about what that money actually buys you. With a cost of living index of 105.5, you’re paying about 5.5% more than the U.S. average for everyday goods and services. That $1,635 rent for a one-bedroom apartment feels steep until you compare it to places like Denver proper. The math works out better here than you’d expect. Your paycheck stretches further than the sticker price suggests, especially if you’re in a high-earning field.

Who’s thriving? The data points to two main groups: tech professionals and healthcare workers. Software developers are pulling in the top salary at nearly $130,000, but registered nurses aren’t far behind at $87,490. This isn’t a city built on one industry. You’ve got aerospace and defense giants like Lockheed Martin with a major foothold, plus a corridor of tech firms and established corporate offices. It’s a stable, educated workforce—over 62% have a bachelor’s degree or higher—and the 3.4% unemployment rate proves there’s real demand for that talent.

But here’s my honest take: while the salaries look good on paper, they need to keep climbing. Housing costs have been creeping up across the Front Range, and that 5.5% premium adds up fast if you’re not in one of those top-paying roles. This city is a fantastic financial fit for dual-income households or established professionals, but it can be a tough climb for someone just starting out.

The numbers below will show you exactly where you land—whether you’re an electrician, a teacher, or a software engineer—and what your adjusted salary really means for your life here.