Colorado Springs vs Wheat Ridge: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Colorado Springs, CO and Wheat Ridge, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Colorado Springs, CO | Wheat Ridge, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,739▲ | $60,241 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.68▲ | $28.96 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,935 | $48,472▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,753 | $56,134▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $62,426 | $76,183▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,381 | $93,373▲ |
| Total Employed | 3,640▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Colorado Springs, CO offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wheat Ridge.
The salary gap between Colorado Springs and Wheat Ridge is $1,498 (2.49%). Colorado Springs's median is -4.42% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Colorado Springs spans $30,446,Wheat Ridge spans $44,901. Wheat Ridge has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Colorado Springs ($61,306 effective) pays 6.86% more than Wheat Ridge ($57,372 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Colorado Springs if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,739/year)
- ✓Larger job market (3,640 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,306)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Wheat Ridge if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($93,373)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Colorado Springs grew 28.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -9.2% growth in Wheat Ridge over the same period.
Colorado Springs, CO
$47,550 (2019) → $61,140 (2025)
Wheat Ridge, CO
$65,670 (2024) → $59,656 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Colorado Springs, CO
Wheat Ridge, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Colorado Springs or Wheat Ridge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Colorado Springs and Wheat Ridge?
Should I relocate from Colorado Springs to Wheat Ridge as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Colorado Springs vs Wheat Ridge?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov