Teaching can be one of the most rewarding professions, but it often has a reputation for paying lower salaries compared to other fields. What if we told you that some teaching positions offer competitive pay that rivals or even surpasses other careers? Whether you're just entering the field or you’re an experienced professional looking to advance, it's worth exploring the best-paying teaching jobs.
So, what are the teaching jobs that pay the most? While salaries can vary by state, school district, and level of education, some specialized roles stand out for their earning potential. In this article, we’ll list these roles, share what teaching position pays the most, and offer tips on how you can qualify for them.
7 of the best top-paying teaching jobs
Teaching can be a very rewarding career, but low pay remains a reality for many educators, especially in entry-level positions or schools with limited funding. That said, certain teaching roles offer competitive salaries—particularly for those with advanced specializations or leadership experience. These positions demonstrate that financial stability is achievable in the education field.
When exploring the highest-paying teacher jobs, several factors come into play, such as education level, specialization, experience, and location. The salary information in this list is based on industry reports, government data, and research from educational institutions such as UMass Global, BestColleges, and Study.com.
These high-paying teaching jobs were selected not only for their earning potential but also for their demand in the education sector and the qualifications typically required. Whether you’re considering a career in K-12 education, higher education, or specialized instruction, these positions represent some of the most financially rewarding paths in teaching.
1. College professor and researchers
Average salary: $79,000–$200,000+ annually
If you want to know what the highest-paying teacher job is, this is it! University professors, particularly those in high-demand fields like medicine, law, or engineering, command some of the highest salaries in education. Their income often depends on tenure, research grants, and the prestige of the institution.
How to qualify:
- A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in your field
- Research and publishing experience
- Strong teaching credentials
2. Instructional coordinators
Average salary: $70,000–$120,000 annually
Instructional coordinators design curriculums and train educators to improve teaching methods. Their expertise ensures students meet educational standards, making them integral to schools and districts.
How to qualify:
- A master’s degree in curriculum and instruction or education
- Experience as a teacher or administrator
- Leadership and analytical skills
3. K-12 school administrators (School principal and superintendent)
Average salary: $90,000–$180,000 annually
School administrator is one of the jobs that pay better than teaching while still staying within the educational field. These professionals oversee daily operations, manage staff, and ensure academic excellence. Superintendents, who oversee entire school districts, typically earn the most in this category.
How to qualify:
- A master’s or doctoral degree in educational leadership
- Experience in teaching and school management
- Strong decision-making and leadership abilities
4. Special education teachers
Average salary: $60,000–$100,000 annually
Special education teachers work with students who have unique learning needs. Their roles often require additional certifications, which contribute to higher salaries compared to general education teachers.
How to qualify:
- A bachelor’s degree in special education
- State certification for special education
- Patience and adaptability
5. ESL (English as a Second Language) instructors
Average salary: $50,000–$90,000 annually
With the growing need for English language instruction worldwide, ESL teachers are in high demand. Opportunities are particularly lucrative in international schools or within private tutoring businesses.
How to qualify:
- A bachelor’s degree in education or a related field
- TESOL or TEFL certification
- Bilingual skills can be a bonus
6. Corporate trainers
Average salary: $70,000–$120,000 annually
Corporate trainers teach adults skills they need for professional development. They often work in private companies, delivering workshops or developing training materials.
How to qualify:
- A background in education or a specific field
- Experience in corporate environments
- Strong presentation and interpersonal skills
7. Online teachers and virtual tutors
Average salary: $40,000–$100,000+ annually
The rise of e-learning platforms has created lucrative opportunities for educators skilled in digital teaching. Experienced online teachers or tutors specializing in STEM subjects are the best paying online teaching jobs.
How to qualify:
- Teaching certifications
- Familiarity with virtual teaching platforms
- Expertise in high-demand subjects
While salary is important, these roles often come with other perks like professional growth, job stability, and the opportunity to make a significant impact. For instance, university professors contribute to research, while special education teachers provide critical support for students who need it most.
Take the first step by identifying your passion, pursuing the necessary qualifications, and exploring these lucrative roles. Teaching can be both a vocation and a rewarding profession!
Tips for having a successful teaching career
Building a successful teaching career involves more than just classroom expertise; it requires continuous growth, adaptability, and a proactive approach to professional development. Focus on the strategies below to enhance your skills and broaden your opportunities in the field.
- Pursue advanced degrees. What type of professor gets paid the most? That would be the professors who typically have degrees such as a Ph.D., J.D., or M.D. Consider earning a master’s or doctorate in your teaching specialty or educational leadership.
- Specialize in high-demand areas. So, what subject do teachers get paid the most for? Teachers specializing in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects often earn the most due to the high demand for expertise in these areas. Focus on this field and also on special education or bilingual instruction to boost your marketability and earning potential.
- Seek leadership roles. Taking on administrative or departmental leadership roles can significantly increase your income while broadening your career scope.
- Stay updated with certifications. Continued education, such as earning certifications for teaching advanced placement (AP) courses or curriculum design, can help you stay competitive.
- Build a strong professional network. Attend educational conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with mentors who can guide you toward better opportunities.
FAQs
Who pays the best for teachers?
Private institutions, international schools, and universities generally offer higher salaries compared to public schools. Within the public sector, districts in states like New York, California, and Massachusetts are known to pay teachers better, often due to higher funding levels and a greater cost of living.
Do teachers make more money with a master’s degree?
Yes, teachers with master’s degrees typically earn more than those with bachelor’s degrees, especially in specialized fields.
Can online teaching be a full-time career?
Absolutely! Many educators now earn competitive salaries teaching full-time on online platforms or offering virtual tutoring services.
How can I transition into higher-paying teaching roles?
Gaining additional certifications, earning advanced degrees, and seeking leadership positions are key steps.