Freelancer Tax Guide — Denver 2026
Complete tax guide for 1099 workers and independent contractors in Denver.
📊 Denver Freelancer Tax Summary (2026)
State Income Tax
4.4%
SE Tax Rate
15.3%
Federal (all states)
At $80,000/yr
$57,870
Take-home pay
Recommended Savings
33–38%
Of each payment
💡 Key insight: Colorado's low flat 4.4% tax makes Denver one of the most tax-friendly major cities in the US for freelancers.
Calculate Your Denver Freelancer Take-Home Pay
SE Tax
$11,304
Federal Tax
$8,198
State Tax
$2,629
Take-Home
$57,870
Total Tax
$22,130
Effective Rate
27.7%
Quarterly Payment
$5,533
Monthly Net
$4,822
Denver Freelance Market Overview
Top Industries
- Tech
- Outdoor/Adventure
- Cannabis
- Aerospace
- Consulting
- Design
Recommended Hourly Rates
Average Freelance Income
$80,000/year
Estimated average for freelancers in Denver across all industries.
Denver Tax Tips for Freelancers
Colorado has a low flat 4.4% state income tax — one of the better rates in the US.
Denver has no additional city income tax.
Colorado's Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (TABOR) limits state tax increases.
Save 24–28% for taxes as a Denver freelancer.
Calculate Your Exact Denver Freelancer Taxes
Use our free self-employment tax calculator — includes Colorado rates.