Respiratory Therapist Jobs in Boulder, CO

Boulder, Colorado$97,875 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Respiratory Therapist Jobs in Boulder

Looking for a Respiratory Therapist job in Boulder? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Respiratory Therapist in Boulder, CO.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Boulder has a strong job market for Respiratory Therapists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Boulder

Entry Level
$67,788
Median
$97,875
Senior Level
$133,400

Respiratory Therapist salaries in Boulder are 45% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.

Purchasing power in Boulder is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Respiratory CareVentilator ManagementPatient AssessmentEmergency ResponseDocumentation

Respiratory Therapist Job Market in Boulder

Boulder, CO is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Respiratory Therapist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Boulder offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Respiratory Therapist roles across various sectors. The market for Respiratory Therapist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Respiratory Therapists in Boulder

University of ColoradoCity of BoulderNCAR

Major employers hiring Respiratory Therapists in Boulder include University of Colorado, City of Boulder, NCAR. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder

Living in Boulder as a Respiratory Therapist means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (145% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,000/month. Housing costs are manageable for Respiratory Therapist salaries in the area.

145
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.0K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Respiratory Therapist in Boulder

Boulder Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Respiratory Therapist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Colorado

Colorado has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Respiratory Therapists

The job outlook for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Boulder offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Respiratory Care, Ventilator Management, Patient Assessment, Emergency Response.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Respiratory Therapist salary in Boulder, CO?

The average Respiratory Therapist salary in Boulder, CO is $97,875 per year. Entry-level Respiratory Therapists typically start around $67,788, while experienced professionals can earn $133,400 or more. The national average for Respiratory Therapist roles is $67,500.

How many Respiratory Therapist jobs are available in Boulder?

Boulder has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Respiratory Therapist professionals. Major employers hiring Respiratory Therapists include University of Colorado, City of Boulder, NCAR. The Technology and Aerospace sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Boulder a good city for Respiratory Therapists?

Boulder is an excellent choice for Respiratory Therapists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder?

Top skills for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder include Respiratory Care, Ventilator Management, Patient Assessment, Emergency Response, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder?

Boulder's cost of living is significantly above the national average (145% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,000/month. Purchasing power in Boulder is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Respiratory Therapists in Boulder?

Boulder Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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