Education and Childcare Administrators earn $102,260 median salary: a 2025 career guide
The median salary for Education and Childcare Administrators is $102,260 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $49 per hour. The typical range runs from $59,400 at the 10th percentile to $171,140 at the 90th. With over 637,000 people employed in this occupation, it's a sizable field — though growth projections aren't available for the 2024–2034 period.
How much Education and Childcare Administrators earn
The BLS reports the mean annual wage for Education and Childcare Administrators at $111,900, or about $53.80 per hour. The median — the midpoint where half earn more and half less — is $102,260. The bottom 10% earn $59,400 or less, while the top 10% take home $171,140 or more.
Pay varies by setting. Administrators in elementary and secondary schools often earn more than those in daycare or preschool centers, though the BLS doesn't break out industry-level medians for this occupation. Experience and geographic location are the biggest drivers of income.
Pay by state
The BLS does not publish state-level figures specifically for Education and Childcare Administrators as a standalone occupation. However, the national data shows a wide range: the top 10% earn nearly three times the bottom 10%. To maximize salary, consider working in wealthier, urbanized states — but without official state-by-state data, the best strategy is to check local job postings for your area.
How to become Education and Childcare Administrator
The path typically starts with a bachelor's degree in education, child development, or a related field. Many states require a master's degree for administrators in public schools, and state licensure as a school principal or administrator is often mandatory. For roles in daycare centers, a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential may suffice, though a bachelor's is increasingly common.
Licensing specifics vary: most states require passing an exam like the School Leaders Licensure Assessment. Experience working with children — teaching or as a childcare director — is essential. Many administrators spend several years as teachers or assistant directors before moving up.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in education, child development, or a related field.
- Gain experience: work as a teacher, lead teacher, or assistant childcare director.
- Complete a master's degree in educational leadership or administration (required in many states for K-12 roles).
- Obtain state licensure or certification — typically through exams and background checks.
- Continue professional development to maintain credentials.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for Education and Childcare Administrators for 2024–2034. However, the broader category of preschool and childcare center directors is expected to see steady demand as working parents continue to need childcare. School administrator roles tend to be stable but competitive.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Education and Childcare Administrators?
The median annual salary is $102,260, with a mean of $111,900. The bottom 10% earn $59,400 or less, and the top 10% earn $171,140 or more.
How many Education and Childcare Administrators are there?
The BLS reports 637,590 employed in this occupation as of May 2023.
What education do you need to be an Education and Childcare Administrator?
A bachelor's degree is the minimum, but many roles — especially in public schools — require a master's in educational leadership or administration. State licensure and several years of teaching or childcare experience are also typical.
Is the job outlook good for Education and Childcare Administrators?
The BLS does not project growth specifically for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. Demand is expected to remain steady, particularly in childcare centers, but school administrator positions can be competitive.
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 Education and Childcare Administrators data.