See your real net paycheck in Denver for 2026. Break down federal tax, state income tax, Social Security, and Medicare, then view weekly, biweekly, and monthly take-home pay.
Last updated: May 2026 · Data: U.S. Census, BLS, IRS, state and city sources
Denver median household income: $85,000 · Avg 1BR rent: $1,700/mo
Colorado levies a state income tax (Flat 4.4%) that comes out of every Denver paycheck on top of federal tax and FICA. Colorado uses a flat income tax rate of 4.4%. The state's TABOR amendment requires voter approval for any tax increases.
| Gross Salary | Annual Take-Home | Monthly Take-Home | Effective Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $33,078 | $2,757 | 17.3% |
| $60,000 | $48,268 | $4,022 | 19.6% |
| $80,000 | $61,806 | $5,150 | 22.7% |
| $85,000 | $65,104 | $5,425 | 23.4% |
| $120,000 | $88,153 | $7,346 | 26.5% |
| $160,000 | $113,733 | $9,478 | 28.9% |
Single filer, standard deduction, no pre-tax deductions. Estimates only.
Denver is the capital and economic center of Colorado and the Mountain West, with an economy spanning aerospace and defense, energy, financial services, healthcare, a major federal presence, and a fast-growing technology and outdoor-recreation industry along the Front Range.
| Local Metric | Denver (2026 estimate) |
|---|---|
| Metro population | 715,000 |
| County / jurisdiction | the City and County of Denver |
| Cost of living index (US avg = 100) | 115 |
| Regional living wage, single adult | $22.00/hour |
| Regional living wage, one earner supporting a family of four | $44.50/hour |
| Applicable minimum wage | $18.29/hour |
| Average rent, 1-bedroom | $1,700/month |
| Average rent, 2-bedroom | $2,150/month |
| Median home price | $560,000 |
| Median household income | $85,000/year |
| Combined sales tax rate | 8.81% |
| Effective property tax rate | 0.52% of value/year |
Local figures are 2026 estimates compiled from U.S. Census and Zillow housing data, and city and county sources. Verify current figures before relying on them.
On a $85,000 salary (single, standard deduction) in Denver, estimated take-home pay is roughly $65,104/year. With median household income near $85,000 and average 1-bedroom rent of $1,700/month, housing alone can take a large share of net pay.
Federal income tax and FICA (Social Security 6.2% up to $176,100, Medicare 1.45%) apply to every worker. Colorado state income tax (Flat 4.4%) also applies in Denver.
Denver does not impose a city income tax. Your paycheck reflects federal tax, Colorado state tax, and FICA.
For the 2025 tax year filed in 2026, the federal standard deduction is $15,000 (single) and $30,000 (married filing jointly). This calculator applies it before computing federal and state income tax.
Contribute more to a pre-tax 401(k) or 403(b), use an HSA or FSA, and claim eligible deductions. These reduce federal and Colorado state income tax, though most do not reduce Social Security or Medicare.