Colorado Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Guide - 2024

Speech Pathologist Programs

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: February 28th, 2024

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are in high demand in Colorado. SLPs are specialists in the diagnosis and care of patients who have speech and language disorders as well as those who have swallowing difficulties. They play a crucial role in fostering effective communication, which greatly improves people’s quality of life.

A speech-language pathologist in Colorado earns an average salary of roughly $101,230 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022). However, a variety of factors, such as region, years of experience, and the type of employer, may have an impact on income. For instance, SLPs often earn more money in major cities like Denver and Colorado Springs than they do in rural areas. More experienced SLPs often earn more money than their less experienced colleagues as well.

Several businesses, including public schools, private offices, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers, employ SLPs in Colorado. Public school SLPs frequently earn less money than their counterparts in other settings. SLPs employed by private hospitals and rehab centers, however, often earn more money. SLPs frequently earn the highest salaries in hospitals; some of them make over $100,000 a year.

SLPs are required to hold a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and be licensed by the state of Colorado. To get licensed, SLPs must complete at least nine months of supervised professional practice, ace a national exam, and fulfill continuing education requirements.

Due to the state’s aging population, rising incidence of communication impairments, and growing public awareness of the benefits of speech and language therapy, it is expected that Colorado will require more SLPs over the next years. As a result, SLPs in Colorado have numerous opportunities for career advancement.

In conclusion, speech-language pathologists play a crucial role in assisting people who have trouble swallowing and speaking. With an average yearly salary of $101,230 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022) in Colorado, SLPs can expect a respectable income and job security. As the demand for SLPs grows, individuals interested in a career in this field may anticipate numerous opportunities for advancement.

Colorado Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries – Visualized

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary by Industry in Colorado

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in urban areas of Colorado

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Boulder, CO210$99,930
Colorado Springs, CO490$90,690
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO2,210$93,990
Fort Collins, CO180$88,650
Grand Junction, CO100$102,350
Greeley, CO140$93,050
Pueblo, CO80$94,850
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in rural areas of Colorado

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Eastern and Southern Colorado nonmetropolitan area90$87,400
Southwest Colorado nonmetropolitan area100$91,000
Northwest Colorado nonmetropolitan area120$90,990
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

What is it like to work as an SLP in Colorado?

The type of work a speech-language pathologist does varies from city to city in Colorado. Due to the city’s rising diversity and growing population, SLPs in Denver should anticipate a rising demand for their services. This city provides a range of job environments, including schools and private practices, as well as a competitive wage.

SLPs can benefit from Colorado Springs’ picturesque surroundings, easy access to outdoor recreation, and lower cost of living than Denver. Although there may be less opportunities for SLPs in this location, the people there cherish the services they offer.

SLPs can anticipate a solid network of support from the town’s schools and a close-knit professional community in Fort Collins. The cost of living is lower than Denver but higher than Colorado Springs. Each city has a distinctive lifestyle and work environment, and it is up to the individual SLP to choose the one that best suits their objectives both personally and professionally.