Salary for esl teachers: PayScale – Error 404 (Not Found)

ESL Teacher Salary | ELL Teacher Salary

The teachers in our schools who take on the fun and rewarding challenge of helping ELL students become proficient in English are an invaluable part of our public education system, helping non-native English speaking students adapt and feel more comfortable in the American communities they’re becoming part of. To a huge extent, that’s what learning the language is all about. Of course, it’s a fundamental part of being able to be successful in academics, but it’s just as important when it comes to navigating the social aspect of school, and life, and to developing the kind of well-adjusted and healthy social life that every kid deserves to have.

ESL teachers set students up for success throughout their lives as they help them prepare to not just learn but learn in a language and culture that is largely foreign to them.

Featured Programs:

• USC Rossier School of Education’s online Master of Arts in Teaching TESOL program prepares you to teach students of all ages in the U. S. and internationally and can be completed in 12 months.

• Campbellsville University Offers an ESL Endorsement (P-12), M.A. in Teaching – Secondary Education, M.A. in TESOL

• Greenville University Offers a Master of Arts in Education – Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)

• George Mason University Offers a Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in TESOL

• Liberty University Offers Undergrad Cert and B.Ed. in English as a Second Language.

• Illinois College Offers an English as a Second Language Endorsement Online.

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It’s a truly exciting and rewarding career path for those who want to use their proficiency in a foreign language to help students of all ages realize the American dream. And thanks to our beautifully diverse nation, the number of ELLs continues to rise, along with professional opportunities and earning potential for dedicated ESL teachers.

Find ESL Teacher Salary Info By State

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A Growing Number of English Language Learners are Driving Demand for ESL Teachers

ELLs are the swiftest-growing group of students in our nation’s schools. With more than 5 million students as of 2017, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), this population comprises about 10% of the entire student body in U.S. K-12 classrooms. They bring with them over 400 languages (although most are Spanish-speaking) and a rich, cultural diversity to our schools and our communities.

If you want to know where the opportunities for ESL teachers are, simply follow state ELL demographics:

The majority of ESL teachers can be found in the western part of the United States.

While ELLs account for about 10% of the student body across the U.S., in many areas of the country, this percentage is much higher. In California, ELLs reached 19.2% of the total student population as of 2017, followed closely by Texas, at 18%, and Nevada at 17.1%. In fall 2017, no less than 40 states and Washington D.C. posted higher numbers of ELLs than they did in fall 2010.

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that the largest number of ELLs are found in the following states, most of which are located in the West:

• Washington D. C.
• Alaska
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• Texas
• Washington

Most ESL teachers teach at the elementary level.

According to Pew Research, about 67% of all ELL students are in grades K-5. The remaining students – 33% – are in grades 6-12. It’s clear that younger students more often require the help of ESL teachers due to their limited English language proficiency, while older students tend to have developed enough English language skills to be reclassified as English-proficient.

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For example, according to the NCES, as of 2017, 15.9% of students in kindergarten were ELLs, compared with 8.6% of students in sixth grade, 7% in eighth grade, and just 4.6% in twelfth grade.

Most ESL teachers teach in urban areas.

School districts with higher numbers of ELLs are usually those in urban areas. According to Pew Research, ELL students made up about 14.7% of the school population in urban areas, compared to 9.6% in suburban areas and just 4.1% in rural areas.

The vast majority of ESL teachers teach Spanish-speaking children.

Of the approximately 5 million ELL public school students in 2017, about 3.7 million—74%—identified Spanish as their home language, followed by Arabic and Chinese.

State and Licensure-Level Guide to What ESL Teachers are Earning

Depending on their state board of education, ESL teachers in the U.S. may earn either an initial ESL teaching license or an ESL certification/add-on endorsement for their existing elementary or secondary-level teaching license.

The type of license/endorsement you’ll earn will be largely dependent on your initial teaching license (if any) and the state in which you live, while your salary will be largely dependent upon your education (bachelor’s vs. master’s), your experience, and whether you’re teaching in public or private school.

According to May 2019 statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), teachers earned salaries in the following ranges (50^th-90^th percentile), according to grade level:

• Elementary school teachers: $59,670 – $97,900
• Middle school teachers: $59,660 – $96,280
• High school teachers: $61,660 – $99,660

The BLS also highlighted the top-paying states in the nation according to average salary:

• Elementary school teachers:
  • New York: $82,830
  • California: $82,560
  • Massachusetts: $82,450
  • Washington D.C.: $79,390
  • Connecticut: $78,070
• Middle school teachers:
  • New York: $87,050
  • Alaska: $80,730
  • Massachusetts: $80,520
  • California: $80,160
  • Connecticut: $79,510
• High school teachers:
  • New York: $87,240
  • California: $85,080
  • Massachusetts: $81,070
  • Connecticut: $78,540
  • New Jersey: $78,090

Your salary as an ESL teacher will vary quite a bit based on where you live. Salaries among teachers can and do differ widely from one state to the next and even from one community to the next, largely due to cost of living differences. So, while teacher salaries in states like California, Connecticut, and New York are much higher than they are in other parts of the country, when you take cost of living into consideration – including everything from income tax to the cost of a house to the cost of a gallon of gas – these salaries aren’t as high as they might first appear.

CNNMoney’s Cost Of Living Calculator is a great tool to use to determine how far your dollar will go based on where you live. For example, an annual salary of $50,000 in Atlanta, GA, is the equivalent to $72,000 in Los Angeles, CA, and a salary of $60,000 in Boise, ID, is the same as earning $110,000 in Brooklyn, NY.

How ESL Teacher Salaries Range According to the Degrees They Hold

You’ll earn more as an ESL teacher based on your years of teaching experience, but your degree level can also affect your earning potential. Like any other teaching position, your salary will vary according your degree level.

For example, an ESOL and world language district support teacher in the Atlanta public schools with three years of experience and a bachelor’s degree earns a salary of $49,539. However, if that teacher holds a master’s degree, the annual salary increases to $57,579, and then to $63,345 with a doctorate.

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Similarly, a teacher working as an ESL teacher in the Broward County Public School District’s bilingual/ESOL department, which has both sheltered/self-contained and mainstream/inclusion rooms for ELLs, earns an annual salary of $41,742 with three years of experience and a bachelor’s degree. But with a master’s degree, this salary increases to $45,392, and $49,742 with a doctorate degree.

Teaching English to ELL Students Can Come with Exciting Stipends and Signing Bonuses

As the number of ELLs continues to increase, so does the demand for ESL teachers, and in some school districts, having a teaching certificate or endorsement in ESL will earn you a bump in pay, a signing bonus, or both.

For example, Davis School District (Davis County, Layton, UT) hires teachers with no experience and a bachelor’s degree at $40,684. Those with master’s degrees are hired at $45,059, and those with doctorates are hired at $48,559. But if you have an ESL endorsement—considered “critical to the functioning of the district,” you’ll earn $41,559 with a bachelor’s degree, $45,934 with a master’s degree, and $49,434 with a doctorate.

It’s a similar story for ESL teachers in the Dublin Independent School District (Dublin, TX). New ESL hires here earn $6,000 signing bonus because it is considered an “acute shortage teaching field.”

Salary and employment data compiled by the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, and secondary school teachers work.  BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

All salary and employment data accessed October 2020.

Featured Programs:

• USC Rossier School of Education’s online Master of Arts in Teaching TESOL program prepares you to teach students of all ages in the U.S. and internationally and can be completed in 12 months.

• Campbellsville University Offers an ESL Endorsement (P-12), M.A. in Teaching – Secondary Education, M.A. in TESOL

• Greenville University Offers a Master of Arts in Education – Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)

• George Mason University Offers a Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in TESOL

• Liberty University Offers Undergrad Cert and B.Ed. in English as a Second Language.

• Illinois College Offers an English as a Second Language Endorsement Online.

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ESL Teacher Salary (October 2022) – Zippia

Updated August 22, 2022

$52,701yearly

To create our salary estimates, Zippia starts with data published in publicly available sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Foreign Labor Certification Data Center (FLC) Show More

$25.34 hourly

Entry level Salary

$40,000

yearly

$40,000

10 %

$52,701

Median

$68,000

90 %

How much does an ESL Teacher make?

Esl teachers make $52,701 per year on average, or $25.34 per hour, in the United States. Esl teachers on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $40,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $68,000.

Location impacts how much an esl teacher can expect to make. Esl teachers make the most in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Washington, and California.

Highest Paying State

Connecticut

Highest Paying City

Boston, MA

Highest Paying Company

Pace University

What Am I Worth?

Highest Paying State

Connecticut

Highest Paying City

Boston, MA

Highest Paying Company

Pace University

What Am I Worth?

Highest Paying States For ESL Teachers

The darker areas on the map show where esl teachers earn the highest salaries across all 50 states.

• State View
• County View

Average Salary:

ESL Teacher average salary by State

Rank	State	Avg. Salary	Hourly Rate	Job Count
1	Connecticut	$67,011	$32.22	500
2	New Jersey	$61,083	$29. 37	1,068
3	Massachusetts	$66,831	$32.13	699
4	New York	$65,446	$31.46	983
5	Maryland	$60,563	$29.12	781
6	District of Columbia	$64,332	$30.93	159
7	Washington	$63,740	$30.64	481
8	Pennsylvania	$54,302	$26.11	911
9	New Hampshire	$51,967	$24.98	223
10	Nebraska	$54,203	$26.06	169
11	California	$62,410	$30.00	2,050
12	Rhode Island	$60,513	$29.09	64
13	Michigan	$49,768	$23.93	755
14	Vermont	$56,107	$26.97	48
15	New Mexico	$49,704	$23. 90	236
16	Minnesota	$50,876	$24.46	562
17	Alaska	$58,528	$28.14	30
18	Wyoming	$49,055	$23.58	47
19	Iowa	$50,154	$24.11	242
20	Illinois	$49,007	$23.56	1,459
21	Virginia	$52,592	$25.28	657
22	Oregon	$53,833	$25.88	237
23	Montana	$46,874	$22.54	120
24	Ohio	$48,666	$23.40	658
25	Delaware	$48,439	$23.29	117
26	Texas	$46,709	$22.46	1,650
27	Utah	$48,426	$23.28	132
28	Florida	$44,876	$21. 57	1,284
29	Nevada	$42,111	$20.25	398
30	Kentucky	$46,886	$22.54	147
31	North Dakota	$47,192	$22.69	33
32	Alabama	$46,114	$22.17	176
33	Colorado	$43,402	$20.87	728
34	Maine	$46,608	$22.41	60
35	Wisconsin	$43,859	$21.09	365
36	Arizona	$40,967	$19.70	822
37	North Carolina	$42,199	$20.29	683
38	South Carolina	$42,091	$20.24	342
39	Kansas	$41,299	$19.86	236
40	Hawaii	$50,111	$24.09	22
41	Tennessee	$41,633	$20. 02	386
42	Idaho	$41,810	$20.10	98
43	Georgia	$41,643	$20.02	673
44	West Virginia	$41,714	$20.05	37
45	Louisiana	$40,725	$19.58	190
46	Oklahoma	$36,516	$17.56	271
47	South Dakota	$40,125	$19.29	32
48	Indiana	$37,365	$17.96	444
49	Missouri	$36,590	$17.59	429
50	Mississippi	$39,044	$18.77	109
51	Arkansas	$36,924	$17.75	158

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Highest Paying Cities For ESL Teachers

Rank	City	Avg. Salary	Hourly Rate
1	Boston, MA	$66,910	$32.17
2	New York, NY	$65,490	$31.49
3	San Francisco, CA	$64,769	$31.14
4	Washington, DC	$64,352	$30.94
5	Bothell, WA	$64,115	$30.82
6	West New York, NJ	$61,347	$29.49
7	Philadelphia, PA	$54,838	$26.36
8	Omaha, NE	$54,168	$26.04
9	Minneapolis, MN	$50,883	$24.46
10	Detroit, MI	$49,962	$24.02
11	Albuquerque, NM	$49,710	$23.90
12	Chicago, IL	$49,167	$23.64
13	El Paso, TX	$48,217	$23.18
14	Columbus, OH	$47,919	$23. 04
15	Milwaukee, WI	$43,841	$21.08

ESL Teacher Salary Details

Average ESL Teacher Salary Graph, Trends, and Summary

What is an ESL Teacher’s Salary?

Average Salary By Related Titles

Job Title	Annual Salary	Monthly Salary	Hourly Rate	Job Openings
Teacher-In-Training	$37,214	$3,101	$17. 89	132,725
Substitute School Teacher	$33,215	$2,768	$15.97	82,842
Math And Science Teacher	$46,589	$3,882	$22.40	71,273
Elementary School Teacher	$52,161	$4,347	$25.08	84,607
Summer School Teacher	$52,828	$4,402	$25.40	86,467
English Language Teacher	$57,831	$4,819	$27.80	74,779

Here are the five companies hiring the most now:

1. Los Angeles Unified School District Jobs (25)
2. ESL Federal Credit Union Jobs (262)
3. Nyc Parks Jobs (39)
4. Houston ISD Foundation Jobs (39)
5. Kaplan Jobs (25)

Which Companies Pay ESL Teachers The Most?

According to our most recent salary estimates, Pace University and DC International School are the highest paying companies for esl teachers.

ESL Teacher Salary Trends

Average ESL Teacher Salary Over Time

Compare salaries for individual cities or states with the national average.

Recently Added ESL Teacher Salaries

ESL Teacher Salaries FAQs

What state pays ESL Teachers the most?

Connecticut pays ESL Teachers the most in the United States, with an average salary of $67,011 per year, or $32.22 per hour.

How do I know if I’m being paid fairly as an ESL Teacher?

You know if you are being paid fairly as an ESL Teacher if your pay is close to the average pay for the state you live in. For example, if you live in Massachusetts you should be paid close to $66,831 per year.

What type of ESL Teacher gets paid the most?

Student Teacher gets paid the most. Student Teacher made a median salary of $59,035. The best-paid 10 percent make $66,000, while the lowest-paid 10 percent make $52,000.

Have more questions? See all answers to common education, training, and library questions.

Search For ESL Teacher Jobs

Updated August 22, 2022

Which Countries Pay the Highest Salaries for Teaching Abroad?

It’s true that English teachers abroad likely didn’t make that career choice solely for the money. The benefits and personal growth gained by being an ESL teacher far outweigh the salary for most, however, finding a financially sustainable and rewarding experience is also important when searching for English teaching jobs abroad.

Although teaching English overseas will never get you on a list of world billionaires, it can come with a reasonable salary — one that even puts money in your savings account. As a teacher abroad, it’s perfectly reasonable and attainable to earn a decent wage — in top-paying countries, this can be from $2,000 to over $6,000 per month! — depending on the country, region, experience, and qualifications.

Read more: How to Get a Work Visa for Teaching English Abroad

It’s also important to keep in mind that high salaries are not the only variable for a financially rewarding job teaching abroad. You should always consider the local cost of living and benefits packages to determine how much you’ll be able to save during your time teaching ESL. Many jobs will offer benefits beyond what you may expect, including room, board, and travel expenses.

Although some countries and regions still pay very little (like teaching gigs in Thailand or Central America), other countries, particularly teaching jobs in the Middle East and Asia, are compensating English teachers with surprisingly strong wages. The highest-paid ESL teaching jobs can often be found in these parts of the world.

Editor’s Note: These ESL salary estimates are subject to change.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Average Salary: $3,500-$5,500 USD/month (based on experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $1,200-$1,900 per month

• Rent: $700-$1200 (typically included)
• Food: $100-$300 (depends on how much you cook or eat out)
• Transportation: $60 per month

Generally speaking, the highest-paid ESL teaching salaries globally are found in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the two biggest cities in the UAE. Salary packages for teachers in the United Arab Emirates can range between $3,500-$5,500 (12,300-22,000 AED) per month, depending on experience. However, like most Middle Eastern countries, the requirements are stringent, and most jobs require teachers to be certified to teach in their home countries or at least have several years of teaching experience. Additionally, while highly experienced teachers can make a salary around or even potentially above USD 6,000 per month, the average teacher is making much closer to AED 16,000 (USD 4,350).

Along with a high salary, ESL teachers can expect to receive an extensive benefits package in the U.A.E., including a housing allowance, relocation allowance, flights home, and government health care. Plus, your salary will most likely be tax-free! When all of this is combined, saving money on a teacher’s salary here is very achievable.

Two of the most popular destinations in the UAE are Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These world-class cities are the definition of cosmopolitanism. If you live here, you’ll have your choice of top restaurants, beaches, nightlife, and cultural activities. Additionally, the cost of living is in the U.A.E. is less than in the United States.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Experience and / or teaching certification from home country.
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in UAE and full UAE teacher salary guide.

New Job Postings in the U.A.E

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Japan

Average Salary: $2,200-$5,000 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $1,000 per month

• Rent: $500-$700 (rent is usually included)
• Food: $100 (depends on how much you cook or eat out)
• Transportation (bus): $80

The cuisine, snow-capped mountains, springtime cherry blossoms, steaming bowls of noodles, and welcoming people have given teaching in Japan a broad appeal. And it doesn’t hurt either that salaries in Japan have a wide range of $2,200-$5,000 (¥220,000-¥540,000) per month, depending on your certifications and experience as a teacher. Some jobs even offer additional bonuses like housing assistance and free flights to the right candidate.

Previous teaching experience is not necessary, though it can be tough to find a position without it since the job market in Japan is extremely competitive. Most less experienced teachers opt to participate in the JET Programme, but be sure to consider the alternatives. ESL teachers participating in the JET program average a monthly wage of USD 2550 (280,000 JPY).

Japan has a high cost of living relative to the United States, which should be considered when evaluating potential destinations to teach English abroad. An individual living in Japan should expect to pay at least USD 1,500 a month, making programs that provide housing subsidies extremely desirable.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: TEFL certificate and experience preferred but not required.
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in Japan and the full Japan teacher salary guide.

New Job Postings in Japan

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Qatar

Average Salary: $2,400-$4,500 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $1,000 per month

• Rent: $700-$1,500 (housing is usually included)
• Food: $150-$250 (depends on how much you cook or eat out)
• Transportation (bus): $40

If a dry, desert climate sounds like a fair trade-off for a high ESL teaching salary, Qatar might be a destination for you to consider. This tax-free teaching destination is considered very safe for Western professionals — even thousands of miles away from home, you won’t feel so alone with Qatar’s lively expat community to join.

Experience is always beneficial, and TEFL certificates are usually necessary. Salaries in Qatar are typically in the range of $2,400-$4,500 (9,000 to 16,300 QAR) per month. ESL teachers in Qatar can also expect extensive benefits packages, often including housing, flights, and the potential for a transportation allowance.

Qatar has a lower cost of living relative to the United States, so an ESL teaching salary can go a long way. The generous salary range offers significant room for savings.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL certificate; international schools generally require a valid teaching license.
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in Qatar.

New Job Postings in Qatar

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Kuwait

Average Salary: $2,600-$4,000 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $1,500 per month

• Rent: $600-$1,000
• Food: $140-$190 (depending on how much you cook/go out)
• Transportation (bus): $40

Due to the high number of international schools, job opportunities are plentiful for English teachers. Kuwait City may be surrounded by desert, but the city itself is buzzing. It’s clean and modern, with skyscrapers, green parks, clubs, shopping, and a vibrant expat community.

ESL teacher salaries in Kuwait range from $2,600-$4,000 (785-1,200 KWD) per month, tax-free. Most employers require teacher certification and experience, especially for higher salaries in this range.

Kuwait also has a reasonable cost of living, so the quality of life English teachers can experience is high. Combining the low cost of living, a modern city, and a robust salary range makes Kuwait an excellent destination for prospective ESL teachers.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Experience and TEFL certificate.
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in Kuwait.

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Oman

Average Salary: $2,000-$3,500 USD/month (based on experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $800 per month

• Rent: $250-$600
• Food: $150-$200 (depending on how much you cook/go out)
• Transportation (bus): $40

Oman is one of the most developed countries in the Arab world, and it has seen rapid advancements in its education system in recent years.

Although opportunities to teach English in the country are somewhat limited, it is an excellent opportunity to help develop the ESL field in Oman. Those who do choose to teach in Oman will be able to do so for a competitive salary.

Teacher salaries in Oman can range from $2,000-$3,500 (750-1,350 OMR) per month, and with a very low cost of living you’ll live comfortably and have plenty of opportunities to expand your savings.

Additional Resources:

• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in Oman.

New Job Postings in Oman

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South Korea

Average Salary: $1,700-$2,650 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $900-$1000 per month

• Rent: $400-$600 (housing is typically included)
• Food: $150-$200
• Transportation (bus): $30-$50

Japan’s neighbor to the west, South Korea, has a similar salary and benefits package to Japan but is somewhat less popular as a tourist destination. However, that is changing. English teachers are flocking to Korea, where the salary for ESL teachers is $1,700-$2,650 (2.0-3.2 million KRW) per month and often includes housing and complete or partial flight reimbursement.

Considering the additional overtime and bonus opportunities, and a lower cost of living, South Korea is one of the best destinations for teaching abroad. A minimum of a TEFL certificate and bachelor’s degree is generally required to teach English in Korea, especially for the EPIK, GEPIK, or SMOE programs.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Bachelor’s degree; TEFL certificate and experience preferred but not required.
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in South Korea and the full South Korea teacher salary guide.

New Job Postings in Saudi Arabia

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Taiwan

Average Salary: $2,000-$3,000 USD/month (based on hourly wage, experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $1,000 per month

• Rent: $200-$500
• Food: $100(depends on how much you cook or eat out)
• Transportation: $30 – $50

Similar to ESL Salaries in Korea, the salaries in Taiwan range from $2,000-$3,000 (60,000-90,000 TWD) per month, with an even lower cost of living, milder winters, and near tropical summers. Saving money can be very easy, and ESL teaching jobs are available across the board, from kindergarten to university, public schools, and private. Many ESL teachers in Taiwan find it possible to save at least $1,000 a month!

Taiwan does not have a legal requirement that ESL teachers obtain a TEFL certification, however, most schools will require one. Additionally, Applicants will need a bachelor’s degree (or, in a few cases, an associate’s degree) and will have to pass a background check to get a teaching job in Taiwan.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Bachelor’s degree
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in Taiwan and a full guide to teacher salaries in Taiwan.

New Job Postings in Taiwan

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China

Average Salary: $1,400-$2,200 USD/month (based on experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $1,000 per month

• Rent: $200-$700 (housing is typically included)
• Food: $100
• Transportation (bus): $30 – $50

Although salaries in China aren’t quite as high as others on this list, at $1,400-$2,200 (10,000-15,000 RMB) per month, China is by far one of the biggest employers of ESL teachers in the world. Pair this wide availability of jobs with a low cost of living, and the comparatively ‘low’ salary is balanced out, especially with potential benefits packages.

If you decide to teach in China, you can either work through a private company or find a position at a public school. English skills are a requirement for many students hoping to pursue higher education in China, so your contributions will make a difference in the lives of your students.

China does require ESL teachers to obtain a TEFL certification and a bachelor’s degree. Many of the employment packages available in China include a TEFL certification course, adding to the benefits of choosing China as your destination to teach English abroad.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Bachelor’s degree
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in China and a full guide to teacher salaries in China. Don’t forget to peruse the The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in China.

New Job Postings in China

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Vietnam

Average Salary: $1,200-$2,100 USD/month (based on experience & credentials)

Cost of Living: $700 per month

• Rent: $200-$400
• Food: $100-$200 (depending on how much you cook/go out)
• Transportation (bus): $10

While salaries here aren’t as high for ESL teachers as other countries on the list, Vietnam has a much lower cost of living than most. Ranging from $1,200-$2,100 per month (27,000,000-48,000,000 VND), you can stand to save a good bit if you don’t splurge on extravagant housing.

Vietnam isn’t the most popular option in Asia for ESL teachers, but it’s an incredibly beautiful and friendly country with a lot to offer. Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon have many modern amenities and thriving international communities. Regional travel is affordable so making low-cost Vietnam your home base is a great choice for teachers interested in exploring Asia.

Additional Resources:

• Typical requirements: Bachelor’s degree and TEFL certificate.
• Recommended reading: Our guide to teaching jobs in Vietnam and the full Vietnam teacher salary guide.

New Job Postings in Vietnam

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Bonus: Teach in the US or Online

We’ve covered international locations for this article — almost exclusively in the Middle East and Asia — however, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a comfortable salary elsewhere. ESL teachers in the United States earn on average $40,000 – $75,000 per year.

As with most professions, a Master’s degree will help you significantly raise your salary, as will experience and certifications. Urban centers and towns or cities with a high immigrant or international student population tend to have more teaching opportunities and better wages — though they might also have a higher overall cost of living.

Furthermore, teachers at international schools worldwide also make a very comfortable salary. This ranges from country to country and region, and those positions tend to require more experience and qualifications. Teaching at an international school abroad is a desirable option for those who want to make a career out of teaching abroad.

Lastly, teaching English online is a great way to gain teaching experience, connect with an international community, and save money, all while maintaining maximum flexibility. Salaries can vary widely, but you can expect to earn between $14-$22 per hour, which will certainly add up over time, especially relative to the expenses of traveling, living, and working internationally.

Teaching English online is a fantastic option for those looking to determine if teaching English is a rewarding career path for them, newer teachers looking to gain experience in the industry or ESL teachers who have obligations that prevent working abroad.

Read more: Teaching English Online Salary Expectations – How much can I make?

• Typical requirements: Varies–generally a Bachelor’s degree with be required.
• Recommended reading: Tips for Becoming an Online English Teacher.

New Job Postings for Teaching Online

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Tips for getting a higher ESL teaching salary

For each country on this list, there is, expectedly, a fairly large range of salaries. Unexperienced teachers, especially those without any TEFL or teaching certification, should expect a salary on the lower end. Those with several years of experience, a relevant degree, and a TEFL certification will be able to make more — regardless of destination.

A TEFL certificate is highly recommended for anyone interested in teaching English abroad. It will prepare you for the classroom and help you provide students with a highly valuable experience. Additionally, many TEFL programs will help you find a job in the country you get certified.

You may also want to consider gaining skills in teaching test preparation. This could lead to salary increases, more job opportunities, or the possibility of added income from outside tutoring.

Don’t settle for less

Teaching English abroad is a great way to pay off student loans, travel, save money, add to your skillset, and immerse yourself in a new culture. With contracts that range from 6 months to 2 years, it’s possible to cater your experience to suit your needs.

Remember that the requirements for teaching in different countries are constantly changing. With a little bit of luck and research, you can earn both a good wage and an unforgettable life experience.

While your salary as an ESL teacher is a significant component in making the right decision on where to teach abroad, there are many more. Continue your research and learn about the 10 best places to teach abroad in 2022 here.

Esl English Teacher Salary in the United State

States with Higher Salaries for Esl English Teacher

The five states where Esl English Teacher jobs get higher salaries in the United States are: Alaska, California, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Compared with the average salary of an Esl English Teacher in the United States, the state of Alaska with the highest job income for this job. The second and third states are California and District of Columbia respectively. The high or low salary paid to Esl English Teacher by the US has a greater relationship with the demand for jobs and the cost of living.

Top 5 States with Higher Salaries For
Esl English Teacher in the United States:

Esl English Teacher in Alaska: $61,091

Esl English Teacher in California: $60,873

Esl English Teacher in District of Columbia: $60,617

Esl English Teacher in New Jersey: $60,252

Esl English Teacher in Massachusetts: $59,293

There are some different titles for Esl English Teacher jobs, and the job title of Esl English Teacher will vary in different companies. The job title has a lot to do with the department and responsibilities, and the same job title will vary in different departments. The following list is the salary of jobs similar to Esl English Teacher, start to view Esl English Teacher-related jobs you are interested in.

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Career Insights

Teaching English Abroad Salaries – Where Can You Make the Most Money?

By Camille Turner
July 18, 2022

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), which is also referred to as teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL), is a rewarding career that requires dedication and passion. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t also pay well! As you make plans to get TEFL certified and teach English, you may be wondering about teaching English abroad salaries. Where do teachers make the most? The short answer is that countries like Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates are among the highest-paying places to teach English in the world (scroll down for the highest-paying countries in each region). In these countries, salaries can range from $2,000 to $4,000 USD per month, with perks like housing and insurance often included.

Yet, looking only at salary doesn’t provide the whole picture when it comes to ESL teacher salaries, so we’ll break down the highest-paying TEFL destinations and also factor in the cost of living to see where you can get the most bang for your buck when teaching abroad. But first, a little background on salaries.

Table of Contents

How much do TEFL teachers earn?

ESL teacher salaries greatly vary depending on where you’re teaching. A teacher’s salary can be as little as $600 USD per month to as much as $4,000 USD per month! Each country not only has different salaries but also different teaching requirements, expectations, and contract lengths to think about. Additionally, location isn’t the only factor when determining salary.

To really answer the question, “How much can you make teaching English abroad?” you’ll need to consider the following factors.

What are your qualifications?

How qualified you are can affect your salary. For example, someone who has a Master’s in TESOL will probably earn a higher salary than someone who only has a TEFL certificate. This is due not only to the basic rule that a more qualified teacher will earn more but also to the fact that teachers with higher qualifications have more access to a wide range of jobs, including positions at universities.

At what type of school will you teach?

Whether you work at a public school or a private language institute can also affect your salary. Depending on the country, some public schools may pay better because of access to government funding. On the other hand, there are many instances when private language schools offer a higher salary because they can also charge parents more to enroll their kids and, therefore, may have a bigger budget.

The level at which you teach can also play an important role in your salary. You will almost certainly make more teaching at a university versus teaching English to young learners at a primary school. You may also make more teaching business English for a large company than teaching conversation classes at a local community center.

How does salary compare to the cost of living?

Looking at the teach English abroad salary that a job pays doesn’t necessarily reveal anything about how much money you’d actually have left after expenses. It’s important to consider the cost of living for a given location. For instance, Latin American countries may pay less (around $600-1000 USD per month), but is that really such a bad thing when you can find rent in some places for as little as $150 USD/month? On the other hand, a high salary earned in Japan would not go far in an expensive city such as Tokyo – unless, of course, your employer offered free housing with your contract.

Can you make a living teaching English abroad?

Absolutely! To choose a location, consider whether your goals are simply to make enough to travel or live overseas or whether you’re aiming to actively save money. Then, factor in the cost of living and the salary for each location to find out where you’re most likely to achieve your financial goals.

It’s important to remember that when abroad, you’ll be living like the locals do, which means you may spend money on different types of entertainment or sightseeing, and you’ll definitely have to get used to different prices – whether good or bad – when it comes to buying food, paying for medical expenses, renting an apartment, and more. Before taking the plunge, it’s essential that you research locations and learn what you need to do in order to teach English abroad.

Which countries pay the highest salary to English teachers?

To fully answer the question, “How much do you get paid to teach English abroad?” we’ve distilled the TEFL world down into popular regions and researched the highest paying countries in each one. Each country’s salary information is an estimate based on its major cities. We’ve also included a “bang for buck” suggestion where the salary may not be the highest, but the cost of living is lower!

Western Europe

Highest-Paying Country: Germany

Average monthly salary: $1,500-$2,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $1,000-$2,000 USD

Best Bang-for-Buck Country: Spain

Average monthly salary: $1,000-$1,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $700-$1,200 USD

Important Info

Western Europe is known as a highly competitive market. For most jobs, it is recommended to have both a bachelor’s degree and an onsite or online TEFL certificate like the IDELTOnline™.

Local Tip

If you want to work in Western Europe’s public schools, there are plenty of great opportunities available, as many governments offer placements. For example, France’s Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF) provides renewable seven-month contracts that require you to teach 12 hours per week in up to three different local schools. Spain offers a similar program called Cultural Ambassadors that runs for the duration of one academic year and offers a tax-free monthly stipend and full medical coverage in exchange for 12-16 hours of teaching per week.

Central/Eastern Europe

Highest-Paying Country: Czech Republic

Average monthly salary: $1,000-$1,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $600-$1,500 USD

Best Bang-for-Buck Country: Russia

Average monthly salary: $1,000-$1,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $600-$850 USD

Important Info

To teach in Central/Eastern Europe, you’ll most likely need a bachelor’s degree. The good thing about teaching in this part of the world is that countries tend to be more flexible about hiring non-EU citizens.

Local Tip

Countries in this region also offer government placements in places such as the Czech Republic. One option is to join the Central European Teaching Program (CETP), which offers an approximately 10-month-long teaching contract with placements all over Hungary.

Asia

Highest-Paying Country: Japan

Average monthly salary: $1,900-$2,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $1,000-$1,800 USD

Best Bang-for-Buck Country: South Korea

Average monthly salary: $1,700-$2,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $500-$700 USD (since housing is almost always provided)

Runner-Up: China

Average monthly salary: $1,000-$2,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $500-$1,000 USD

Important Info

Asia is currently one of the biggest and most popular markets for learning English, and there is a high demand for English teachers around the region. You’ll likely have your pick of countries when deciding where to teach English in Asia.

Most positions in Asia require both a bachelor’s degree and at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate.

Some countries, such as South Korea and China, will even cover flight and housing expenses as part of their benefits package, which is a huge plus when it comes to getting the most out of your salary. Jobs in other countries may also offer these benefits, so make sure to do a thorough job search!

Local Tip

Most positions in the major cities of China (where pay is highest) require some teaching experience. Learn more about “the tier system” for TEFL cities in China in this article by Brendan O’Shea, a teacher there.

Middle East

Highest-Paying Country: UAE

Average monthly salary: $3,000-$4,000 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $800-$1,200 USD

Best Bang-for-Buck Country: Saudi Arabia

Average monthly salary: $2,000-$4,000 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $500-$800 USD (if housing is provided, which it almost always is)

Important Info

The Middle East has some of the highest-paid teaching jobs abroad and ranks as the most competitive TEFL region in the world! If you want to teach here, advanced TEFL/TESOL training like the IDELTOnline™ is pretty much required, as is a bachelor’s, or often master’s, degree and several years’ worth of teaching experience. If you don’t quite meet all of those requirements, consider taking a look at positions in Saudi Arabia, as they tend to require less experience than other Gulf countries.

On the upside, housing for English teachers in the Middle East is almost always provided. This is true for positions in both Saudi Arabia and Oman. Another plus is that teaching salaries in the Middle East can be tax-free.

Local Tip

This can be a good region for teachers who prefer to teach adult students, as you’ll often find jobs teaching business English or working at the collegiate level.

Latin America

Highest-Paying Country: Brazil

Average monthly salary: $800-$1,500 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $800-$1,300 USD

Best Bang-for-Buck Country: Ecuador

Average monthly salary: $600-$850 USD

Average monthly cost of living: $450-$750 USD

Important Info

You may find it more difficult to score a job that comes with a pre-arranged visa in Latin America because schools prefer to hire people who are already in the country.

Many of the placements you do find here are part-time, and some English teachers may choose to supplement their income through private tutoring and online teaching.

Local Tip

If you are determined to work full-time in a Latin American school, your best bet may be teaching English at one of the many bilingual private K-12 schools (or “international schools”) that are common in countries like Colombia.

Teaching English online as a digital nomad

Another option if you want to travel or live overseas while teaching is to become a digital nomad and work virtually. Whether you choose to work with a company, via an ELT marketplace, or run your own online business, at the end of the day, all you’ll really need to work is your laptop and a good internet connection.

Teaching English online is a great option for teachers who plan to move from country to country often, as you won’t need to find a new job every time you want to travel to a new place. You can also use online teaching as a way to save money. For instance, if you work online but live in a country with a low cost of living (e.g., Colombia), you can save a lot of your income.

These days, more and more English classes are being delivered virtually, and teaching online is a fairly stable market. If being location-independent sounds appealing, you can earn Specialized Certification in Teaching English Online to master the specific skills you need to deliver classes virtually, or you can take the Comprehensive Certification Bundle, which combines general TEFL/TESOL training with specialized training to qualify you for jobs both online and in classrooms worldwide.

Hear from digital nomads as they discuss the ins and outs of traveling while teaching English online.

So, where is the best place to teach English abroad?

You decide! Salary and saving money may be the most important factors for some when choosing where to teach English abroad; however, others are drawn to a location because of its history, culture, language, or sights. Whatever drives your teaching abroad goals, the right place for you is out there!

Curious about how pay compares for online teachers? Read this next: Teaching English Online Salaries – How Much Can I Make?

ESL Teacher | Requirements | Salary | Jobs

George Mason University

Featured Program: Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in TESOL

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Campbellsville University

Featured Program: ESL Endorsement (P-12), M.A. in Teaching – Secondary Education, M.A. in TESOL

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Greenville University

Featured Program: Master of Arts in Education – Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)

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University of Southern California

Featured Program: Master of Arts in Teaching – TESOL online, Master of Arts in Teaching online

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Awaken people’s curiosity. It is enough to open minds, do not overload them. Put there just a spark. Anatole France

An ESL teacher is an English as a Second Language teacher. An ESL teacher must be very patient as his or her students will not be fluent in the English language. The ESL teacher could be required to be bilingual, but this is not always necessary. An ESL teacher will also be highly understanding of cultural difference as students could be from a range of backgrounds. An ESL teacher will also need to be good at research as he or she may spend time researching word equivalents in different languages.

Qualities of an ESL Teacher

An ESL teacher is flexible above all else. This type of teacher may get new students throughout the school year and each could speak a different language. These students may be placed by grade level, not English ability, so a diverse array of students could be present in a single class. The ESL teacher is responsible for assessing the English skills of each student and then teaching a new language to each student. The goal is to work with students to reach a high level of proficiency in English in a short amount of time. The ESL teacher is often the main bridge between the student, parents and school for any information that may be needed.

An ESL teacher may also need to connect with parents from time to time to make sure parents are aware of classroom progress.

ESL Teacher Job Growth

ESL teachers are projected to have a positive outlook for the next 10 to 15 years. The number of students who are entering school as bilingual or are just learning English is at an all time high. This means those teaching ESL are needed at all levels as ESL students can enter at any grade.

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What are the Requirements for Teaching ESL?

An English as a Second Language teacher must obtain a bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate. However, in high-need areas, ESL teachers may be offered a form of alternate certification if they are certified as bilingual or in a related area, but this will vary from state to state and possibly district to district. An ESL certification can be obtained from most accredited colleges or universities.

ESL teachers are often required to be certified TESOL teachers. TESOL stands for Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages. Learn more about earning TESOL Certifications and Degrees.

Teacher Education Programs

Most accredited educational institutions offer a dual program in which a student can earn a degree and teacher certification at the same time. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can fulfill the requirements to become an ESL teacher through an alternative program. The candidate will be expected to pass basic proficiency exams in reading, math and writing. Throughout the educator preparation program, ESL teacher candidates will be expected to complete classes on learning English, language development and teaching strategies. This is in conjunction with observations within classrooms and student teaching.

Every state has specific requirements for how to become a teacher.

Find Information About Becoming a Teacher In Your State

Each state has different requirements for becoming a certified teacher. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

What is ESL?

An ESL teacher will have students of various ages and abilities. ESL students can be any age, but the majority of ESL teachers are found in middle and high school. This does not mean that ESL teachers do not teach elementary levels, but that elementary teachers are often teaching the basics of English in regular classes and ESL students are simply pulled by Title 1 teachers.

Who Will My Students Be?

Students may be the only English speakers in their homes, which can make communication with a student’s parents challenging. Students may speak a variety of languages and arrive in a class with little to no English language instruction. ESL students are not necessarily struggling students, they are just unfamiliar with the language.

Teaching ESL in Middle School and High School

This means that ESL teachers are most needed at the middle and high school levels for older students who are entering the school system at older ages, but not proficient in English. Students in ESL classes will have the same variety of temperaments as all students of similar ages, but have the added frustration of not being able to communicate effectively at all times. This may make ESL teaching challenging, but highly rewarding.

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What Does an ESL Teacher Do?

An ESL teacher gives instruction in basic and age-appropriate English to students who are not native speakers of the language. These students are typically referred to as ESL (English as a Second Language) students or ELL (English Language Learners) students.

ESL Teachers Assess Students

It is the job of the ESL teacher to assess each student over the course of time and then teach that student the basics and age appropriate areas of English necessary to further their education. Some students may need the very basics of letter sound correspondence, while others may simply need to expand their vocabulary. Is some cases, ESL students will understand a great deal more English than they will speak or read.

On the Job Duties

An ESL teacher will perform duties expected of any teacher in that they will write lesson plans, create hands-on learning experiences, assess students and work with fellow teachers to help students be successful.

ESL teachers may also be required to do other tasks such as monitoring halls or lunch and recess supervision. Teachers will also be required to meet with parents as well as faculty and staff in order to better student success.

Typical Teaching ESL Classroom

An ESL classroom will be setup as a typical classroom, but will likely have fewer students. English instruction will be intense for the newest students and extend to meet their needs as further assessment takes place.

ESL Teaching Curriculum

Students who are learning English as a Second Language may not be present at all schools, meaning that not all schools or even districts will have a full-time ESL teacher. There are some teachers that will travel between schools that have a low ESL population. ESL standards do exist, but materials may be adopted by each district as needed, meaning the ESL teacher may need to supplement the curriculum over time.

ESL Teaching Jobs & Job Description

ESL teachers need to be insightful and sensitive, as well as aware of the multiculturalism in their classroom and beyond its door. ESL teachers work at both the elementary and secondary levels and the job looks different at each:

ESL Elementary Teacher

ESL teachers at the elementary level are focused on teaching young language learners to use English in a variety of settings. They may:

• Teach English for a variety of social settings
• Teach English to achieve academics in all subject areas
• Teach students to become effective self-advocates in English
• Teach students to use effective learning strategies
• Help students with cultural elements of the English speaking classroom
• Help students advocate for their parents for necessary business and social transactions
• Act as a point of reference for greater community resources for immigrants and language learning
• Promote awareness of ESL in the context of the school and community
• Be a knowledgeable point of reference for cultural mores and traditions of students’ countries and cultures
• Develop appropriate instructional strategies
• Use a variety of instructional and assessment skills to ensure robust learning occurs
• Understand and use a student’s rate of acculturation
• Be empathetic to a student’s migration experience and its stressors
• Be aware of the level of development in a student’s first language and how this may impact ESL learning
• Be aware of student’s prior experiences with English and English speaking culture
• Scaffold student’s learning using their prior learning in their first language
• Be mindful of whether or not learning disabilities are a factor
• Create a caring and supportive ESL classroom environment
• Provide appropriate amounts of ESL support as students learn the language
• Provide extracurricular and in-classroom opportunities for English interaction
• Be empathetic to student emotions that surface in the learning situation
• Identify reasons for listening to English – for information, to interact socially, to follow direction
• Demonstrate how to listen effectively in English
• Evaluate student’s English comprehension and listening strategies, model more sophisticated strategies as students skills progress
• Teach students to check for understanding by retelling a story or text in English and in their first language
• Teach students to ask meaningful questions about the story in English
• Help students discern explicit and implicit information from the story and non-verbal markers – i. e. vocal intonation and facial expression of the reader. This often has a cultural component.
• Identify whether a text is fact or fiction based on evidence from the story
• Teach students how to communicate information in a clear manner using standard English constructs
• Teach students to identify text and literary features in English fiction; relate to first language fiction where possible and applicable
• Teach children to read English with both fluency and comprehension
• Help students produce a variety of texts and media texts in English
• Assist and advocate for students creating English work in the rest of their subject load

ESL High School Teacher

Much like the ESL teacher at the elementary level, the secondary ESL teacher has many cultural and linguistic decisions to make – and to help students make – from minute to minute in the classroom. Secondary ESL teacher roles look like this:

• Advocate for students’ ESL needs with other course teachers
• Focus students on making gains in the language as a whole, not simply to use ESL class time for homework catch-up
• Provide frequent opportunities to produce language in written and oral formats
• Help students produce a variety of texts and media texts in English
• Assist and advocate for students creating English work in the rest of their subject load
• Teach English for a variety of increasingly complex social settings
• Teach students to become effective self-advocates in English in a variety of settings for high school and the wider world
• Teach students to use effective learning strategies applicable to inside and outside the classroom
• Help students with cultural elements of the English speaking classroom, as well as norms and mores of English culture
• Lead students in how to advocate for their parents for necessary business and social transactions
• Act as a point of reference for greater community resources for immigrants and ESL language learning
• Promote awareness of ESL in the context of the school and community
• Be a knowledgeable point of reference for cultural mores and traditions of students’ countries and cultures – other teachers may require a subject matter expert with an educational perspective
• Develop appropriate instructional strategies that work with a student’s skill level
• Use a variety of instructional and assessment skills to ensure robust learning occurs, identify problems and remediate solutions
• Understand and use a student’s rate of acculturation to their advantage in the classroom
• Be empathetic to a student’s migration experience and its stressors
• Be aware of the level of development, academic knowledge and metacognition in a student’s first language and how this may impact ESL
• Be aware of student’s prior experiences with English and English speaking culture
• Scaffold student’s learning using their prior learning in their first language
• Be mindful of whether or not learning disabilities are a factor
• Create an empathetic and supportive ESL classroom environment both between colleagues and students and between peers
• Provide appropriate amounts of ESL support as ESL learners progress
• Provide strategies like cooperative learning to maximize ESL time
• Teach students to write longer texts to convey information
• Teach students to write longer text to express ideas using different formats
• Teach students to use a variety of idea linkages and transitional phrasing to showcase sophistication with English
• Teach students to use accurate grammatical and syntactical structures and conventions
• Help students use pre-writing, drafting and editing strategies to produce polished works
• Help students determine appropriate register and style for a variety of texts they may create
• Help students gain knowledge about the secondary school system and post-secondary options
• Teach students a variety of time-management, study and preparation tactics
• Identify the purpose of different school and community resources

Licensed and ESL teachers have a number of career paths open to them. Read on to learn more.

Where Can Certified ESL Teachers Work?

A certified ESL teacher is capable of teaching at any private, public or charter school. However, ESL students are less likely to be present at private or charter schools and higher grade levels are more likely to have ESL teachers within a school.

Focusing mainly on public schools, an ESL teacher may travel between schools to serve small populations of students or may be full time at a larger middle or high school. These teachers will be responsible for teaching English to non-native speakers.

If a private or charter school does have an ESL teacher, the teacher can expect an even smaller population of students. Private schools may also require religious or group affiliations prior to hiring. Regardless of what type of school an ESL teacher chooses, the higher the population of non-native speakers in the area, the more likely an ESL job will be available.

ESL Teacher Organizations & Associations

TESOL International Association: This membership organization is dedicated to advancing excellence in English language teaching.

IATEFL – International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language: Global professional membership nonprofit that links, develops and supports English language teaching professionals.

ACTFL – American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages: ACTFL is an individual membership organization of more than 13,000 language educators and administrators from elementary through graduate education that provides vision, leadership and support for quality teaching and learning of languages.

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What is the Salary of an ESL Teacher?

Middle-and high school ESL teachers make starting national salaries of $39,990, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual salary is $59,660 for middle-school ESL teachers and $61,660 for high-school ESL teachers in 2019, with a high salary of $99,660 for experienced teachers in the top 10% of their profession.

Teachers certified to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) make, on average, $8,000 more a year in the public school system. The reasons for this are twofold. Generally teaching salaries are higher in the public system. The public system also has a higher demographic of students needing ESL programming. Teachers who continue to advance their education and professional development credentials can earn an additional $10,000 on average between a starting salary with a BA degree and completion of an M.Ed.

Learn more about Teacher Salaries and the benefits they come with.

(Salary data for elementary, middle-school and high-school teachers reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2019. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed March 2021.)

Teaching English in China and salary: how much can you earn?

Browsing the Internet, you probably learned that the average salary of teachers can vary greatly. There really is no such thing as a fixed salary.

Those who teach English in China in 2019 can receive between 6,500 and 31,500 yuan. This is approximately $960 and $4,700 per month.

Who gets the minimum wage in China?

Typically an inexperienced teacher, often without certification. Perhaps a student or a new graduate. The $1,000 salary is also extended to part-time jobs.

Use a currency converter to convert to an equivalent currency you understand, for example, to the Russian ruble

There are three main factors that affect the average teacher salary here:

• Previous experience and qualifications;
• The region or city where you work;
• Type of institution where you teach English in China: Kindergarten and college salaries and schedules vary.

Your Salary Education in China Depends on of Type Institute

Thinking about the salary of TESL teachers in China, it is important to decide where you are going to work.

Public schools pay less than private centers, well, almost everywhere in the world.

Conditions and bonuses are always better in international and private schools.

However, these are all worthy paid jobs. No matter how much you earn, moving to China to teach English will improve your financial situation and provide you with a comfortable life.

Of course, it’s easier to come up with something if you regularly receive more than $1,500, but don’t despair.

Good teachers always find ways to make extra money, such as teaching English to Chinese students via Skype or at home.

Wages for teaching English in kindergartens

$800).

Working with young students has another advantage: earning a fairly decent salary, you get the fewest hours. Plus, the classes are very short – from 20 to 40 minutes.

Working hours are not normally required. Some kindergartens offer part-time work.

Thus, as an English teacher in China, you can get additional work in other kindergartens or language centers.

This is a great way to double or triple your monthly income and save something for the future.

Salary for teaching English in state schools

Teaching an entire class of Chinese students can be rewarding.

A part-time job at top schools can earn you up to 10,000 yuan a month, but it’s usually only 6,000 yuan ($900).

However, living allowance or free housing is often provided to foreign teachers in China. This is a great way to save some money even on minimum wage.

The fee for teaching English in high school can be 12,000 or 14,000 yuan per month, especially if it is an experienced staff member.

The top-rated schools offer extra bonuses, free travel, and free health insurance, so with $2,000 you can afford most things and regularly.

Wages for teaching English in private educational institutions

According to some students of English in China, salaries in the private sector can be significantly higher than in public institutions.

The average income of teachers in private schools and kindergartens is usually 15,000 yuan (2,250 US dollars) or even 20,000 yuan (3,000 US dollars). Parents are willing to pay more for qualified foreign teachers and a modern approach to this process.

Of course, the salary of preschool teachers will be lower than the salary of subject teachers in an international school. It all depends on the actual position and the required skills.

Combining a public school position with a part-time job is a great way to improve your situation. Especially if you teach English in rural areas of China where the schedule is less strict and the pay is lower.

Salary for Teaching English Language at Language Centers

Language Centers

Language courses are one of the most popular places for ESL teachers in China. Modern, fully equipped and with limited class size (up to 20 people).

In addition, employees are usually fluent in English, which makes it easier to communicate in the office.

The expected salary is also quite high, with a net income of 10,000 yuan (1,500 US dollars).

The average monthly salary of a teacher is usually 10,000 to 15,000 yuan (2,250 to 2,700 US dollars).

Qualified employees can negotiate a salary of 17-18,000 yuan, especially in large cities.

You see, when it comes to teaching English, China sets no boundaries – it’s up to you!

The fact is that you do not even have to work overtime or take on additional responsibilities. Experienced and loyal mentors are always entitled to additional privileges and bonuses.

Language learning centers also pay an additional fee (minimum RMB 5,000) for each new contract you sign with the school. The longer you stay, the more you get.

Salary for teaching English in international schools

Do not confuse ESL centers with international institutions, which are basically schools for children of expats.

How much money does a teacher earn there per month? It depends, but English speaking teachers are highly valued and very well paid.

20,000 – 25,000 yuan is a normal salary. Teaching TEFL in China at such institutions often requires knowledge of native speakers.

Otherwise, the payment may be lower. Also, unlike many other places, international schools do not accept non-degree amateurs. A university degree is compulsory and it must also be in education.

Salary for teaching English at colleges and universities

The best thing about higher education in this country is the number of hours you work and the benefits you get. 15 hours of class per week are considered full time, very limited or non-existent hours.

The average salary of a university professor is about 8,000 or 9,000 yuan, which is between 1,200 and 1,300 dollars.

Sounds funny, doesn’t it? In fact, everything is much more complicated.

Both universities and colleges in China offer free meals, campus housing or 2,000 yuan allowance, cover utility bills, and guarantee other free things.

With a simple schedule and bonuses, you get an amazing quality of life.

In addition, you can apply for a job at a part-time language school in China or get tutoring to increase your income. Only if you want it.

Most foreign mentors combine work in different institutions, but this is not required.

With $1200 and no rent or bills to pay, you can have a pretty good life in even the most expensive cities.

Salary for private lessons in China

For those who teach English in China, salary is usually the main criterion for choosing a school. It is useful to remember that your earnings are not limited to the figure in your contract.

Most of our clients turn to tutoring. It’s a quick and effective way to multiply your learning benefits and save hundreds of extra dollars each month.

Some private and public institutions offer extra classes for a fee of 150-200 yuan per hour, but you can get even more through Skype students, dedicated websites, and teaching your students at home.

Parents and students will ask you, or you can browse some of the websites and bulletin boards at the school and in your area. People are excited about private lessons with native speakers in China.

Don’t be shy if you have enough free time and energy for extra activities.

A professional private teacher’s salary can reach 16,000 yuan if there are enough students for a 20-hour week.

College teachers often combine their jobs with tutoring, some of them switching to part-time work to have more one-on-one sessions.

Your salary for studying in China depends on whether you study de Geography is another important factor. Due to the smaller population and less developed economy, fees may vary in less touristy cities.