Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School: Salary, Job Outlook & How to Become One (2025)
The median annual salary for career and technical education (CTE) teachers in secondary schools is $66,270, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to about $32 per hour, with the typical range falling between $50,040 (10th percentile) and $101,340 (90th percentile).
With roughly 111,420 CTE teachers employed nationwide and a projected decline of 1.8% from 2024 to 2034, this is a specialized career path that offers stable pay but limited growth. Here’s what you need to know about salaries, state-by-state pay, entry requirements, and the outlook for this occupation.
How much Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School earn
The national median salary for CTE teachers in secondary schools is $66,270, with a mean wage of $72,680. Most teachers earn between $50,040 and $101,340, reflecting wide variation by experience, location, and subject area.
Pay typically increases with years of experience and additional certifications. Teachers in higher-paying districts or with specialized technical skills (e.g., healthcare, IT) often land at the top of the range. The average hourly wage is about $32.
- National median: $66,270
- Typical range: $50,040 – $101,340
- Mean wage: $72,680
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. The highest-paying states for CTE teachers are Washington ($101,180), Connecticut ($100,810), and Massachusetts ($98,020). New Jersey ($83,770) and Rhode Island ($81,820) also rank among the top payers.
On the lower end, Indiana ($56,390), South Dakota ($56,070), and Montana ($55,190) offer median wages well below the national average. Keep in mind that cost of living varies too—higher-pay states often have higher housing costs.
How to become Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School
To teach CTE at the secondary level, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a technical field (e.g., automotive technology, health sciences, business) plus a teaching license or certification from your state. Many states also require several years of relevant work experience in the trade.
The exact path depends on your state and subject area. For example, a former electrician may need to complete a teacher preparation program and pass a pedagogy exam. Alternative certification routes exist for career-changers who already have industry experience but lack a traditional education degree.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in a technical or vocational field
- Gain 2–5 years of hands-on work experience in the trade
- Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program
- Pass required licensing exams (e.g., Praxis, state-specific)
- Apply for a CTE teaching certificate or license
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 1.8% decline in employment for CTE teachers from 2024 to 2034, meaning the number of jobs is expected to shrink slightly. Still, about 6,200 openings occur each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Competition may vary by subject area; high-demand fields like healthcare and technology may have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Career/Technical Education Teacher at a secondary school?
The median annual salary is $66,270, with a mean of $72,680. Most earn between $50,040 and $101,340.
Which state pays CTE teachers the most?
Washington tops the list at $101,180, followed by Connecticut ($100,810) and Massachusetts ($98,020).
How do I become a CTE teacher in a high school?
You typically need a bachelor's degree in a technical field, relevant work experience (often 2–5 years), and a state teaching license or certificate. Alternative certification routes are available for career changers.
Is the job market for CTE teachers growing?
No, the BLS projects a 1.8% decline from 2024 to 2034. However, about 6,200 openings per year should still arise from turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School data.