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How much does a Preschool Teacher make?

The average salary for a Preschool Teacher is $38,587 per year in the US.

A Preschool Teacher’s job is rewarding and fulfilling. These educators prepare young children for future schooling. They earn a salary that reflects their important role. The average yearly salary for Preschool Teachers is $38,587. This means most teachers can expect to earn this amount or slightly more each year.

Preschool Teachers can earn different amounts based on their experience and location. The lowest 10% of earners make about $24,000 each year. The highest 10% earn more than $70,500. A teacher's salary can grow as they gain more experience and expertise. Different states and cities may also offer varying salaries for this position.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Preschool Teacher?

Job seekers for Preschool Teacher roles can find better pay in certain cities. Des Moines, IA, leads the pack with the highest average salary at $146,875. Other cities like San Francisco, CA, Washington, DC, and Salinas, CA, offer strong salaries above $50,000, making them attractive options. Exploring these cities could lead to lucrative opportunities. San Jose, CA, Santa Maria, CA, Seattle, WA, Boston, MA, Santa Rosa, CA, and Providence, RI, also provide competitive salaries, ranging from $52,622 to $48,363.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Preschool Teacher jobs, highlighting Des Moines, IA with the highest at $146,875 and Providence, RI with the lowest at $48,363.
  1. Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $146,875
    In Des Moines, educators find fulfilling roles in various institutions. Programs at local community colleges and private schools offer opportunities to nurture young minds. The city's dedication to quality education makes it an attractive place for career growth.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Des Moines, IA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $59,817
    San Francisco provides a vibrant setting for those in early childhood education. With top-tier institutions like the Head Start programs and various private preschools, teachers here enjoy a dynamic work environment. The city's emphasis on innovative teaching methods offers exciting professional development.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $53,187
    Working in Washington, DC, offers unique experiences in well-established programs. Public and private preschools in the area focus on diverse educational approaches. The city's rich cultural scene adds depth to the teaching experience, making it both enriching and dynamic.
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  4. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $52,756
    Salinas provides a close-knit community atmosphere for educators. Local preschools emphasize hands-on learning and creativity. The supportive environment allows teachers to build strong relationships with students and families, fostering a nurturing educational setting.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Salinas, CA


  5. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $52,622
    San Jose boasts a thriving educational sector with many reputable preschools. Teachers here benefit from a focus on technology integration and innovative teaching practices. The city’s growing economy offers plenty of opportunities for career advancement.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in San Jose, CA


  6. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $51,652
    In Santa Maria, educators work in smaller, community-focused schools. The laid-back atmosphere allows for a personalized approach to teaching. Teachers here have the chance to make a significant impact on their students' early learning experiences.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  7. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $51,383
    Seattle's preschools are known for their progressive educational philosophies. Teachers here enjoy working in diverse settings with a strong emphasis on play-based learning. The city’s commitment to education provides a supportive environment for professional growth.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $50,807
    Boston offers a rich educational landscape with numerous well-regarded preschools. Teachers here benefit from the city’s historic commitment to learning and innovation. The diverse community provides a unique and stimulating environment for both educators and students.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Boston, MA


  9. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $50,714
    Santa Rosa provides a warm and welcoming environment for educators. Local preschools emphasize a balance between academics and play. The community’s focus on family values makes for a supportive and nurturing educational setting.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  10. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $48,363
    In Providence, teachers find opportunities in a variety of settings, from public schools to private institutions. The city’s historic institutions offer a mix of traditional and modern teaching methods. The vibrant community adds a dynamic element to the educational experience.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Providence, RI

What are the best companies a Preschool Teacher can work for?

StockPot, Inc. leads in offering the highest salaries for preschool teachers at $102,144 a year. Advocates and Jefferson County Public Schools also provide competitive salaries above $70,000 annually. For those seeking good pay, these companies are excellent options.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Preschool Teacher jobs, highlighting StockPot, Inc. with the highest at $102,144 and Hawaii State Department of Education with the lowest at $67,235.
  1. StockPot, Inc.
    Average Salary: $102,144
    StockPot, Inc. provides high-quality early education services. They are looking for Preschool Teachers who can deliver engaging and nurturing environments for young learners. They have preschools across various locations.


  2. Advocates
    Average Salary: $76,500
    Advocates focuses on early childhood education. Preschool Teachers at Advocates create a stimulating atmosphere that encourages social and academic growth. They have multiple centers in different regions.


  3. Jefferson County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $73,938
    Jefferson County Public Schools offers a structured and supportive setting for Preschool Teachers. They work with a range of talented educators to support students. Their schools are located throughout Jefferson County.


  4. Amergis Healthcare Staffing
    Average Salary: $72,587
    Amergis Healthcare Staffing places Preschool Teachers in various educational settings. They focus on providing high-quality care for young children. Their placements are spread across different states.


  5. Bezos Academy
    Average Salary: $71,780
    Bezos Academy is dedicated to excellence in early education. They seek Preschool Teachers who can inspire and engage young minds. The academy is located in multiple cities across the nation.


  6. Springfield Public Schools (Massachusetts)
    Average Salary: $71,447
    Springfield Public Schools offers a vibrant learning environment for Preschool Teachers. They emphasize nurturing creativity and development. The schools are based in Springfield, Massachusetts.


  7. MISSION NEIGHBORHOOD CNTRS INC
    Average Salary: $71,223
    MISSION NEIGHBORHOOD CNTRS INC provides early childhood education with a strong community focus. Preschool Teachers here create a warm and inclusive learning space. Their centers are in various neighborhoods.


  8. Chicago Public Schools
    Average Salary: $68,576
    Chicago Public Schools aim to offer comprehensive early education. Preschool Teachers here work in a dynamic environment. The schools are located throughout the city of Chicago.


  9. League School for Autism
    Average Salary: $67,724
    League School for Autism specializes in supporting children with autism. Preschool Teachers at this institution are trained to provide specialized care. The school is located in multiple cities.


  10. Hawaii State Department of Education
    Average Salary: $67,235
    Hawaii State Department of Education offers Preschool Teacher positions across the islands. They focus on creating enriching experiences for young learners. Their preschools are situated in various locations in Hawaii.

How to earn more as a Preschool Teacher?

Teaching preschool can be a rewarding career. It requires dedication and creativity. It is also possible to earn more with the right approach. Consider these factors to boost your earnings as a preschool teacher.

Experience often leads to higher pay. Teachers with more years in the classroom typically see their salaries increase. They gain skills and knowledge that can make them more valuable. Look for opportunities to advance within the school system. Seek roles that offer higher pay for additional responsibilities. You may take on administrative tasks or lead special programs.

Continued education can also raise your earnings. Many school districts offer higher pay for teachers with advanced degrees. Consider pursuing a master’s degree in early childhood education. This can open doors to higher-paying positions. It can also make you more competitive in the job market.

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Pursue advanced degrees
  3. Seek higher-paying districts
  4. Look for specialized roles
  5. Improve teaching skills

Experience and education are key factors. But, improving your teaching skills can also lead to better pay. Many schools value teachers who can adapt to different learning styles. They look for those who can use innovative teaching methods. Taking courses or workshops can help you develop these skills. It can also make you a more attractive candidate for higher-paying jobs.

Currently 5,242 Preschool Teacher job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Preschool Teacher in the US?

Learn what a Preschool Teacher does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Preschool Teacher today.
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Preschool Teacher
5,242 Job Openings