Elementary School Teacher Salary 2025: $63,970 Median, Jobs Decline 2%
The median elementary school teacher (excluding special education) earns $63,970 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Half of all teachers earn between $47,960 and $104,340, putting the top 10% well into six figures. The average hourly wage is roughly $31, but that figure masks wide variation by state, experience, and district funding.
How much Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education earn
The national median annual salary for elementary teachers (non-special ed) is $63,970. The mean wage is $72,650, pulled higher by experienced teachers in high-cost areas. Entry-level teachers at the 10th percentile make about $47,960, while veterans at the 90th percentile earn up to $104,340.
District size and local property tax revenue strongly influence pay. Teachers in urban and suburban districts typically earn more than those in rural areas. Advanced degrees and national board certification can boost earnings beyond the typical range.
Pay by state
Washington state tops the list at $102,350 average annual salary, followed by California ($99,650), District of Columbia ($96,580), Massachusetts ($94,000), and Rhode Island ($90,930). These states generally have higher costs of living and stronger union protections.
At the lower end, South Dakota pays $50,130, Mississippi $49,790, and Oklahoma $48,200. Teachers in these states often supplement income through summer work or second jobs.
How to become Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
The typical path starts with a bachelor's degree in elementary education or a related field. All states require completion of a teacher preparation program—often embedded in the degree—and a student teaching internship. After graduation, you must pass a state-mandated licensing exam (usually the Praxis or a state-specific test).
Licensure typically requires a background check and ongoing professional development. Some states offer alternative certification routes for career changers with a bachelor's in another subject. Once licensed, most beginners start as substitute teachers or in long-term sub roles before landing a full-time contract.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education or a state-approved subject area.
- Complete a teacher preparation program including a student teaching assignment.
- Pass required state exams (e.g., Praxis Elementary Education).
- Apply for a state teaching license or certificate.
- Begin job search; many districts hire for fall positions starting in spring.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 2% decline in employment for elementary teachers (excluding special education) from 2024 to 2034, meaning about 1,388,390 jobs will shrink slightly. However, roughly 91,000 openings per year are still expected due to retirements and turnover.
Declining enrollment in some regions—especially the Northeast and Midwest—drives the negative growth. States in the South and West with growing populations may see better opportunities. Specializations like bilingual education or STEM can improve job prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for an elementary school teacher?
Entry-level teachers at the 10th percentile earn about $47,960, though starting salaries vary by state and district. Some high-paying districts start above $55,000.
Do elementary school teachers get paid during summer?
Most teachers are on a 10-month contract but can spread pay over 12 months. Some take summer jobs or teach summer school for extra income.
Is becoming an elementary teacher worth it in 2025?
It depends. Pay is below the national average for all occupations ($65,470), but benefits and retirement can be strong. Job security varies by region due to the projected 2% decline.
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 Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education data.