The Boulder County minimum wage for 2026 is $16.82 per hour, $1.66 more than the Colorado state minimum of $15.16 and well above the $7.25 federal floor.
Applies in unincorporated Boulder County. Tipped cash wage is $13.80; the employer must make up any shortfall to the full $16.82 minimum.
Boulder County wage details
City minimum wage
$16.82 per hour
Next scheduled change
January 1, 2027
Set by
Local ordinance
Tipped employees
Tipped cash wage is $13.80; the employer must make up any shortfall to the full $16.82 minimum.
Who it applies to
Applies in unincorporated Boulder County.
Boulder County vs. state vs. federal
| Level | 2026 minimum wage |
|---|---|
| Boulder County | $16.82 per hour |
| Colorado | $15.16 per hour |
| Federal | $7.25 per hour |
Employers must pay the highest rate that applies, so in Boulder County that is the $16.82 city rate.