How Much Do Teachers Make?
$62,360median annual salary
$29.98/hour · $5,197/month · BLS Code: 25-2031
Teachers educate students in elementary, middle, and high schools. They create lesson plans, assess student performance, and manage classrooms. While pay varies significantly by state and district, teachers receive benefits like pensions, health insurance, and summers off that add substantial value beyond base salary.
Teacher Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$42,690
Starting salary
Median
$62,360
50th percentile
Senior Level
$83,750
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$101,310
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Teachers
#1
New York
$92,222
#2
Massachusetts
$90,850
#3
California
$88,482
#4
Connecticut
$83,660
#5
New Jersey
$82,190
Top Paying Cities for Teachers
Education & Requirements
Education
Bachelor's degree in education plus state teaching license/certification
Typical Degree
Bachelor's in Education
Certifications
Job Outlook
+1%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
1,753,800
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Teacher Salary FAQ
How much do teachers make per year?
The national median salary for high school teachers is about $62,360, but this varies enormously by state. New York teachers average $92,222 while Mississippi teachers average about $47,162.
What state pays teachers the most?
New York pays the highest average teacher salary at $92,222, followed by Massachusetts ($90,850), California ($88,482), Connecticut ($83,660), and New Jersey ($82,190).
Do teachers make enough to live on?
It depends on location. In high-cost areas, teacher salaries can be stretched thin despite appearing higher. Many districts offer step increases for experience and additional education (master's degrees can add $5K-$15K/year).
Can teachers make six figures?
Yes, experienced teachers in high-paying districts (especially in NY, CA, MA, CT) with master's degrees and longevity can exceed $100,000. Administrators, department heads, and coaches often earn more.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.