Colorado variant. This is a Colorado-specific version of the Stock Sale Capital Gains Tax Estimator, using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Stock Sale Capital Gains Tax Estimator.
Most states tax capital gains as ordinary income. In Colorado, that means a top rate of 4.4% on gains.
Capital gains tax in Colorado
Federally, long-term gains are taxed at 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on income, plus a possible 3.8% net investment income tax. Colorado then taxes the same gains as ordinary income at up to 4.4%.
Short-term gains (assets held under a year) are taxed as ordinary income at both levels - usually the most expensive outcome.
About taxes and housing in Colorado
Colorado applies a single flat income tax rate of 4.4% to all taxable income.
Colorado has among the lowest effective property tax rates in the country, though rapidly rising home values have pushed up assessments.
Colorado's economy spans aerospace, technology, and outdoor recreation, with strong population growth concentrated along the Front Range.
Worked example: $50,000 long-term gain
A $50,000 long-term gain: federal 15% = $7,500, plus Colorado state tax up to 4.4% = $2,200, for a combined bill near $9,700.
Quick reference
- State income tax: Flat 4.4%
- State sales tax: 2.9% (plus 4.91% avg local)
- Median home value: $565,000
- Median household income: $92,911
- Effective property tax rate: 0.55%
- Avg auto insurance: $2,065/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Colorado tax capital gains?
Yes - Colorado taxes capital gains as ordinary income at up to 4.4%.
What's the difference between short and long-term gains?
Assets held over a year get preferential long-term federal rates (0/15/20%); shorter holds are taxed as ordinary income.