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How much does a Elementary Principal make?

The average salary for a Elementary Principal is $98,100 per year in the US.

Elementary principals play a key role in shaping young minds and guiding schools. The salary for this important position can vary based on experience, location, and education. On average, an elementary principal earns about $98,100 each year. This is a good salary that reflects the responsibility of leading a school.

The salary range for elementary principals starts at $44,200 and goes up to $158,602. Here’s a closer look at how salaries can change:

  • 10% of principals make less than $54,600.
  • 25% make between $54,600 and $75,401.
  • 50% earn between $75,401 and $106,601.
  • 75% earn between $106,601 and $137,802.
  • 90% make less than $158,602.
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What are the highest paying cities for a Elementary Principal?

Elementary Principal roles often come with attractive pay packages. Cities like Los Angeles, CA, and Washington, DC, offer some of the highest salaries in the field. In Los Angeles, the average salary for an Elementary Principal exceeds $133,000, while Washington, DC, comes close with an average salary of about $116,000. These cities provide competitive compensation that reflects the value placed on effective educational leadership. Leaders in Omaha, NE, and St. Louis, MO, can also expect high earnings, with average salaries around $115,000 and $107,000 respectively. Opportunities in these locations are ideal for those seeking both a rewarding career and substantial financial benefits.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Elementary Principal jobs, highlighting Los Angeles, CA with the highest at $133,624 and Kansas City, MO with the lowest at $91,971.
  1. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $133,624
    In Los Angeles, a leader in education oversees many schools. They ensure every student gets a great education. Schools here often have many students from different backgrounds, making it a diverse place to work.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $116,594
    Working as a principal in Washington, DC offers a unique blend of history and modern education. The city's schools focus on preparing students for a global world. Leaders here often collaborate with local government and educational organizations.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Omaha, NE
    Average Salary: $115,323
    In Omaha, a school leader helps shape the future of students. The community values education and works closely with parents. Schools here focus on creating a supportive environment for learning.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Omaha, NE


  4. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $107,107
    St. Louis offers a vibrant education scene for school leaders. The city has many initiatives to improve student outcomes. Working here means being part of a community that cares deeply about education.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in St. Louis, MO


  5. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $106,088
    Dallas provides a dynamic environment for school leaders. The city has a growing number of educational programs. Leaders here work to enhance student achievement and community engagement.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Dallas, TX


  6. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $100,372
    In Detroit, a school principal plays a key role in revitalizing the education system. The city is focused on improving schools and student success. Working here means being part of a community dedicated to making a difference.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Detroit, MI


  7. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $100,117
    Philadelphia offers a rich educational landscape for school leaders. The city has a diverse student population. Leaders here focus on creating inclusive and effective learning environments.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  8. Montgomery, AL
    Average Salary: $96,667
    Montgomery provides a supportive community for school leaders. The city values education and works hard to improve student outcomes. Working here means being part of a dedicated team focused on student success.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Montgomery, AL


  9. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $92,952
    In Denver, a school leader enjoys a vibrant educational environment. The city has many programs to support students. Leaders here focus on fostering a love of learning and academic excellence.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Denver, CO


  10. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $91,971
    Kansas City offers a welcoming environment for school leaders. The city has many initiatives to support student growth. Leaders here work to create a positive and engaging school experience for students.
    Find Elementary Principal jobs in Kansas City, MO

What are the best companies a Elementary Principal can work for?

Elementary Principals can find some of the best pay with Los Angeles Unified School District, offering an average salary of $142,778. The Los Angeles County Office of Education also provides a competitive salary, with an average of $119,512. Illinois School District U-46 is another top-paying company, with an average salary of $115,517. Additionally, Adams 12 Five Star Schools in Colorado and Jeffco Public Schools offer average salaries of $113,885 and $113,555, respectively. Phalen Leadership Academies and Iowa City Community School District also provide salaries that exceed $100,000 on average. These companies value their Elementary Principals and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Elementary Principal jobs, highlighting Los Angeles Unified School District with the highest at $142,778 and YES Prep Public Schools with the lowest at $85,643.
  1. Los Angeles Unified School District
    Average Salary: $142,778
    The Los Angeles Unified School District offers rewarding opportunities for Elementary Principals. With a diverse student population, these leaders work in over 1,000 schools across Los Angeles, California. This district values educational leadership and fosters growth in educators.


  2. Los Angeles County Office of Education
    Average Salary: $119,512
    Los Angeles County Office of Education provides a supportive environment for Elementary Principals. Working in various schools throughout Los Angeles County, California, this role involves overseeing educational programs and supporting staff development. Leaders here make a big impact on student success.


  3. Illinois School District U-46
    Average Salary: $115,517
    Illinois School District U-46 offers competitive salaries for Elementary Principals. This district serves communities in Illinois, focusing on high-quality education. Principals here have the chance to influence curriculum and school culture, making it a great place for educational leaders.


  4. Adams 12 Five Star Schools
    Average Salary: $113,885
    Adams 12 Five Star Schools is known for its commitment to excellence in education. Located in Adams County, Colorado, this district supports Elementary Principals in creating effective learning environments. They focus on student achievement and teacher support, providing a rewarding experience.


  5. Jeffco Public Schools
    Average Salary: $113,555
    Jeffco Public Schools offers diverse opportunities for Elementary Principals. Based in Jefferson County, Colorado, this district emphasizes student success and teacher growth. Principals here work in a variety of schools, making a positive impact on the community.


  6. Phalen Leadership Academies
    Average Salary: $102,861
    Phalen Leadership Academies provides a unique setting for Elementary Principals. Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, this district focuses on leadership development and student achievement. Principals here are encouraged to innovate and lead with a focus on student success.


  7. Iowa City Community School District
    Average Salary: $95,906
    Iowa City Community School District offers a welcoming environment for Elementary Principals. Serving the Iowa City area, this district emphasizes collaboration and community involvement. Principals here have the chance to shape educational practices and student experiences.


  8. Marklund
    Average Salary: $90,444
    Marklund provides an innovative platform for Elementary Principals. Operating in Minnesota, this district supports educational leadership and student engagement. Principals here focus on creating effective learning environments and fostering school community.


  9. YES Prep Public Schools
    Average Salary: $85,643
    YES Prep Public Schools offers a dynamic opportunity for Elementary Principals. Located in Texas, this district emphasizes academic excellence and student development. Principals here have the chance to influence school culture and educational practices.

How to earn more as a Elementary Principal?

Becoming an Elementary Principal offers a rewarding career with opportunities to grow earnings. To maximize potential, consider these key factors. Gaining advanced degrees or certifications can increase job prospects and salary. Principals with a Master’s degree in Education Leadership often earn more. This advanced knowledge helps in managing schools better and advocating for students.

Experience matters. The more years spent in education, the higher the salary potential. Specializing in areas such as curriculum development or student assessment can lead to higher-paying roles. Working in urban areas or regions with higher living costs typically comes with higher pay. Networking with other professionals can open doors to better-paying positions. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can enhance career opportunities.

Consider these factors to improve earnings as an Elementary Principal:

  • Get advanced degrees or certifications.
  • Accumulate more years of experience.
  • Specialize in high-demand areas.
  • Work in regions with higher living costs.
  • Network with other education professionals.

Currently 191 Elementary Principal job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Elementary Principal in the US?

Learn what a Elementary Principal does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Elementary Principal today.
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Elementary Principal
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