There are more than 3.2 million teachers working in elementary and secondary schools across the country, and the average starting salary for an elementary school teacher is $34,230. This states average is based on an analysis of minimum-wage and salary laws in each state and the District of Columbia. In some states, the average salary for new teachers could be significantly higher than $34,230.
Teaching is a difficult job, but if you love children, it is an incredibly rewarding profession. Today, many people believe the pay is low. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average starting salary for a high school teacher in 2018 was $50,780 while other information indicates that elementary teachers start their careers at approximately $38,000 per year. The estimated median salary for all teachers was $59,130 in 2017. This means that nearly half of all elementary school teachers earn more than $59K and half earn less. A variety of factors can impact salaries including experience, location, and education level.
Average starting salary for elementary school teachers
The average starting salary for an elementary school teacher is around $32,000 per year. Often, the starting salary is even lower than this. There are many variables at play when determining a teacher’s starting salary, and some of these variables (like whether you have an accredited degree or are a veteran) may affect your personal salary more than others.
Based on the findings of this study, it seems reasonable to assume that new teachers can expect to earn an average starting salary of $40.79 per hour. This will likely vary based on location and possibly other factors besides experience as well.
On top of the training and experience you have, your salary as an elementary school teacher will vary based on your education level and the location of your school. Overall, elementary school teachers are paid well for their work.
Though teachers have traditionally been underpaid in the United States, the recent economic recession has created a teacher shortage and led to steady increases in teacher salaries. According to the BLS, elementary school teachers can expect an average salary of $53,220 annually, while middle school teachers and high school teachers earn $54,420 and $56,180 per year, respectively. Although some states pay teachers at even higher rates than these national figures, the highest paying state for all levels of education is New Jersey where teachers make an average of $74,110 annually. Even though teachers’ salaries are increasing faster than other jobs in the U.S., this doesn’t make teaching a lucrative profession.
Here’s a guide to help you pick the right special education teacher for your child.
