How much does a ESL Instructor make?
ESL instructors teach English to students whose first language is not English. They work in many different settings, including schools, colleges, and private language centers. The average yearly salary for an ESL instructor is around $62,792. This number can change based on experience, location, and the kind of institution they work for.
Most ESL instructors start with salaries between $40,000 and $54,000 per year. As they gain more experience, their pay often increases. Some instructors can earn more than $89,000 a year, especially if they work in areas where there is a high demand for English teachers. Other factors, like having a master's degree or specialized teaching certifications, can also boost earnings. Understanding these salary ranges can help job seekers make informed decisions about their career path.
What are the highest paying cities for a ESL Instructor?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $110,179
In San Francisco, language instructors find ample opportunities in schools and language institutes. Companies like Berlitz and EF Education First offer positions. Teaching here often involves diverse students, enhancing your skills.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $78,978
Portland offers a vibrant environment for ESL educators. Local language schools and community colleges provide varied job opportunities. Teaching in Portland allows for a focus on a close-knit, supportive community.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $74,861
Minneapolis provides a range of options for language instructors. Organizations such as Global Language Services and local community colleges hire educators. The city’s educational institutions value diverse teaching approaches.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $72,270
In Milwaukee, ESL instructors can work in schools and private language centers. Employers like ABC Languages offer stable positions. The city supports a welcoming environment for language learning.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $69,394
San Diego’s diverse population creates a rich environment for language teachers. Institutes such as International House provide numerous opportunities. The city’s cultural diversity enhances the teaching experience.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $68,971
Birmingham offers several opportunities for language instructors in schools and private language centers. Employers focus on developing strong communication skills. The city’s growing community supports diverse learners.
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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $67,502
Springfield has a variety of positions for language instructors. Local colleges and language schools look for dedicated educators. Teaching here allows for a close connection with students.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $66,929
Washington, DC, provides many opportunities for language instructors in educational institutions and international organizations. Companies like Alliance Française offer dynamic teaching roles. The city’s diverse student body enriches the teaching experience.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $66,309
In St. Louis, language instructors can find positions in schools and language centers. Employers appreciate educators who engage students. The city’s educational institutions value diverse teaching methods.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $66,305
New Orleans offers a unique setting for ESL educators. Local language schools and universities hire teachers. The city’s cultural richness enhances the teaching experience, providing a vibrant environment for learning.
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What are the best companies a ESL Instructor can work for?

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Manassas City Public Schools
Average Salary: $98,290
Manassas City Public Schools offers rewarding ESL Instructor positions. They serve students in Manassas, Virginia. Instructors have the chance to impact young learners' lives significantly.
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Focused Staffing Group
Average Salary: $92,008
Focused Staffing Group provides excellent ESL Instructor jobs. They place staff in various locations nationwide. Instructors can find diverse teaching opportunities and competitive pay.
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The New York Public Library
Average Salary: $90,000
The New York Public Library offers ESL Instructor jobs in New York City. Instructors teach adults and children, helping them improve their English skills. It’s a great way to make a difference in a vibrant community.
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Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens
Average Salary: $90,000
Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens provides valuable ESL Instructor positions. They serve communities in Brooklyn and Queens, New York. Instructors work to help immigrants and refugees enhance their English proficiency.
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Prince William County Public Schools
Average Salary: $89,859
Prince William County Public Schools offers competitive ESL Instructor salaries. They serve students in Prince William County, Virginia. Instructors play a key role in helping students achieve academic success.
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Sunbelt Staffing
Average Salary: $86,526
Sunbelt Staffing connects ESL Instructors with top-paying jobs. They place staff in various locations across the United States. Instructors can find temporary and permanent positions with excellent benefits.
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Match Education
Average Salary: $80,356
Match Education offers ESL Instructor jobs with good pay. They work with schools in many areas. Instructors help students improve their English skills and achieve their academic goals.
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Anoka-Hennepin School District
Average Salary: $77,140
Anoka-Hennepin School District provides ESL Instructor positions in Minnesota. They serve a large, diverse student population. Instructors make a positive impact on students’ lives and academic success.
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Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School
Average Salary: $75,429
Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School offers ESL Instructor jobs in Boston, Massachusetts. Instructors work with students to improve their English skills. The school focuses on providing a supportive learning environment.
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Soliant
Average Salary: $71,780
Soliant provides ESL Instructor jobs with good pay. They place staff in various locations nationwide. Instructors can find diverse teaching opportunities and competitive salaries.
How to earn more as a ESL Instructor?
Teaching English as a second language (ESL) offers many opportunities to boost your earnings. By taking specific steps, ESL instructors can enhance their income and job satisfaction. Focusing on professional growth can lead to higher-paying positions and more rewarding experiences.
Here are key factors that can help an ESL instructor earn more:
- Advanced Certifications: Earning advanced certifications can open more job opportunities. These credentials can lead to higher-paying positions.
- Teaching Experience: Gaining experience allows instructors to take on more responsibilities, such as leading classes or training new teachers. This often leads to higher pay.
- Specialized Skills: Skills in areas like business English or exam preparation (TOEFL, IELTS) can attract higher-paying jobs. These specialized areas are in demand and can command higher wages.
- Networking: Building a strong network can lead to job referrals and recommendations. Connections with other educators and institutions can provide access to better job opportunities.
- Geographic Location: Some regions offer higher wages for ESL instructors. Working in cities or areas with a high demand for English teachers can lead to better pay.



