Teaching Assistants earn $37,010 median salary in 2024 – job duties and outlook
Teaching Assistants in the United States earn a median annual salary of $37,010, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $18 per hour. The typical range runs from $27,360 at the 10th percentile to $55,520 at the 90th. With over 1.5 million people employed in this role, it's one of the largest support occupations in education. But pay can vary significantly depending on where you work and what level of education you support.
How much Teaching Assistants earn
The BLS reports the median annual wage for Teaching Assistants is $37,010, with a mean wage of $39,260. Most earn between $27,360 (10th percentile) and $55,520 (90th percentile). Hourly pay averages about $18. These figures cover TAs at all levels, from preschool through postsecondary, though elementary and secondary school assistants typically earn near the median.
- 10th percentile: $27,360
- Median: $37,010
- 90th percentile: $55,520
- Mean: $39,260
- Mean hourly wage: $18.88
Pay by state
State-level data for Teaching Assistants is not available from the BLS for the most recent year. However, in prior years, the highest-paying states included Alaska, New York, and California, often with mean wages above $45,000. Lower-paying states such as Mississippi and South Dakota typically reported mean wages near $25,000. Note that cost of living and unionization strongly affect local pay. For current state-by-state figures, check the BLS geographic profile tool.
How to become a Teaching Assistant
Most school districts require at least an associate's degree or completion of two years of college coursework. Many community colleges offer a TA certificate or associate degree in education or child development. Federal work-study programs also place students as TAs. For paraprofessionals in Title I schools, federal law requires a high school diploma and either an associate's degree or passing a state-approved exam (e.g., ParaPro). Some states require a license or background check. Experience working with children, such as volunteering or tutoring, is strongly preferred.
- Earn an associate's degree or complete 60 college credits (common requirement).
- Pass a state paraprofessional assessment (e.g., ParaPro) if working in a Title I school.
- Obtain state-issued certification or license if required by your district.
- Pass a background check and fingerprinting.
- Gain experience through volunteering, student teaching, or internships.
Job outlook
The BLS does not publish a projected growth rate for Teaching Assistants for 2024–2034. However, employment is sensitive to state and local education funding. Historically, the occupation has grown at a modest pace, tied to school enrollment and special education needs. As of 2024, about 1.58 million TAs are employed across the U.S. Turnover is relatively high, which can create steady job openings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average hourly pay for a Teaching Assistant?
The mean hourly wage for Teaching Assistants is $18.88, according to the BLS. The median hourly wage is about $17.80.
Is being a Teaching Assistant a good job?
It can be a stable entry point into education. Pay is modest (median $37,010), but hours often align with school calendars, offering summers and holidays off. Many TAs find the work rewarding, especially if they plan to pursue teaching degrees.
Do I need a degree to become a Teaching Assistant?
Most schools require at least an associate's degree or two years of college coursework. Federal rules for Title I schools demand either an associate's degree or a passing score on a paraprofessional exam.
How many Teaching Assistants are there in the US?
The BLS reports 1,584,440 Teaching Assistant jobs in 2024, making it one of the largest support roles in education.
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 Teaching Assistants data.