Secondary School Teachers (Except Special and Career/Technical Education) Salary Guide 2025
The median annual salary for secondary school teachers (except special and career/technical education) is $72,040, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $76,320, which breaks down to roughly $35 per hour. Most teachers earn between $48,780 (10th percentile) and $107,600 (90th percentile). Over 1,065,000 people work in this occupation across the U.S.
How much Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education earn
Median pay sits at $72,040 annually. The bottom 10% earn about $48,780, while the top 10% bring in $107,600 or more. Pay varies widely by state and district.
Experience, advanced degrees, and additional certifications can push salaries higher. Many teachers supplement income through summer school, coaching, or tutoring.
- National median: $72,040
- Mean wage: $76,320 ($35/hr)
- Typical range (10th–90th percentile): $48,780 – $107,600
Pay by state
Washington is the top-paying state at $102,670, followed by California ($101,370), New York ($97,070), Massachusetts ($95,260), and Rhode Island ($92,610). On the lower end, South Dakota averages $51,050, Mississippi $50,980, and Oklahoma $48,710. Cost of living and state education funding drive these differences.
How to become Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
A bachelor's degree in education or a teachable subject is the standard entry point. You'll also need state licensure or certification, which typically includes student teaching and passing Praxis or similar exams. Some states require a master's degree within a few years of starting.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in education or a subject you plan to teach.
- Complete a teacher preparation program (often included in your degree).
- Pass state-required exams (e.g., Praxis).
- Apply for a teaching license/certificate in your state.
- Consider a master's degree for higher pay and advancement.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 1.6% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 17,000 jobs. Despite the decline, around 66,200 openings per year will arise from retirements and turnover. Competition for jobs varies by subject and location; math, science, and special education often have more demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for secondary school teachers?
The typical range is $48,780 (10th percentile) to $107,600 (90th percentile), with a median of $72,040.
What education is needed to become a secondary school teacher?
You need at least a bachelor's degree in education or a teachable subject, plus state licensure. Many teachers eventually earn a master's degree.
Is the demand for secondary school teachers growing?
No, the BLS projects a 1.6% decline (2024-2034). However, about 66,200 openings per year are expected due to retirements.
Which states pay secondary school teachers the most?
The highest-paying states: Washington ($102,670), California ($101,370), New York ($97,070), Massachusetts ($95,260), and Rhode Island ($92,610).
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 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education data.