How much does a Preschool Teacher make?
Becoming a preschool teacher can be a rewarding career. The salary for preschool teachers varies based on experience and location. On average, preschool teachers earn about $38,063 a year. Some teachers make less, while others earn more.
Here are some key points about preschool teacher salaries:
- Teachers with less than a year of experience earn around $24,000.
- Teachers with one to three years of experience earn around $28,000.
- Teachers with four to nine years of experience earn around $32,000.
- Teachers with ten to 19 years of experience earn around $36,000.
- Teachers with 20 or more years of experience earn around $40,000 or more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Preschool Teacher?

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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $149,468
In Des Moines, teachers find a community that values early education. The area offers many centers where educators focus on making learning fun. Schools like KinderCare and Bright Horizons provide a nurturing environment.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $59,504
San Francisco offers a vibrant setting for educators. With its diverse population, teachers engage with a variety of cultures. Schools such as Learning Care Group and Little Sprouts are known for their innovative programs.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $52,619
San Jose provides many opportunities for educators in top-notch facilities. Teachers here work in well-equipped classrooms. Institutions like KinderCare and Bright Horizons attract skilled professionals.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $52,389
In Washington, DC, teachers enjoy a rich educational environment. The area has numerous programs that emphasize early childhood development. Companies such as Primrose Schools and KinderCare provide excellent career opportunities.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $51,173
Salinas offers a close-knit community for educators. Teachers work in supportive settings that focus on child development. Local centers like Bright Horizons and KinderCare value their staff.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $50,873
Boston presents a dynamic environment for teaching. The city's schools offer diverse programs to cater to different learning styles. Companies such as Learning Care Group and KinderCare provide excellent career growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $50,376
Seattle provides a unique setting for educators. The city's progressive education system values creativity and innovation. Schools like KinderCare and Bright Horizons support professional development.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $50,145
Santa Rosa offers a wonderful place for teachers to thrive. The area has many centers that focus on holistic child development. Institutions like KinderCare and Little Sprouts value dedicated educators.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $49,322
Boulder provides a healthy environment for teaching. The community highly values education and supports early childhood development. Schools such as KinderCare and Bright Horizons offer great career opportunities.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $47,900
In Anchorage, teachers enjoy a supportive community. The area offers many programs focused on early education. Companies like KinderCare and Learning Care Group provide excellent work environments.
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What are the best companies a Preschool Teacher can work for?

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Kamehameha Schools
Average Salary: $80,580
Kamehameha Schools offers a rewarding environment for Preschool Teachers. This company provides exceptional educational opportunities in Hawaii. It supports teachers with ongoing professional development.
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Mission Neighborhood Centers
Average Salary: $70,441
Mission Neighborhood Centers is dedicated to community development. The company offers Preschool Teacher positions in various California locations. It emphasizes a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment.
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Hawaii State Department of Education
Average Salary: $67,802
The Hawaii State Department of Education provides diverse teaching opportunities. Preschool Teachers can work in many schools across the islands. The department values creativity and innovation in early childhood education.
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Springfield Public Schools, MA
Average Salary: $67,180
Springfield Public Schools offers various positions for Preschool Teachers in Massachusetts. This school district focuses on supporting students' growth and development. Teachers have access to a wide range of resources and support.
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YMCA of the East Bay
Average Salary: $65,951
The YMCA of the East Bay provides a vibrant community for Preschool Teachers. The company operates centers in multiple California locations. It fosters a fun and educational environment for young learners.
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Bellevue School District
Average Salary: $64,322
The Bellevue School District offers opportunities for Preschool Teachers in Washington. The district emphasizes the importance of early childhood education. Teachers work in a supportive and collaborative environment.
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Perth and Kinross Council
Average Salary: $64,067
Perth and Kinross Council provides positions for Preschool Teachers in Scotland. The company operates in many schools across the region. It values teachers who promote a positive and engaging learning experience.
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EDEN PRAIRIE SCHOOLS
Average Salary: $60,139
EDEN PRAIRIE SCHOOLS offers rewarding opportunities for Preschool Teachers in Minnesota. The district focuses on creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment. Teachers have access to various professional development resources.
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North Bay Children's Center
Average Salary: $59,910
North Bay Children's Center provides Preschool Teacher positions in California. The center emphasizes a hands-on and interactive learning approach. Teachers work in a close-knit community with a strong focus on student development.
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Beacon ABA Services
Average Salary: $59,067
Beacon ABA Services offers positions for Preschool Teachers in multiple states. The company focuses on providing quality education and support for children with special needs. Teachers benefit from a supportive and collaborative team environment.
How to earn more as a Preschool Teacher?
Becoming a Preschool Teacher can be a rewarding career. If you want to earn more, consider these strategies. Understanding how to increase your salary can lead to a more fulfilling career.
First, gaining more education can help. Preschool teachers with advanced degrees often earn more. Look for certifications or further education opportunities. These can make you more competitive in the job market. Many employers value teachers who continue their education.
Second, gaining experience can lead to higher pay. Starting as a teacher's assistant or in a lower-level position can help. Over time, you may earn more as you gain more experience. Working in a high-demand area can also lead to higher pay. Consider areas with fewer teachers.
Next, moving to a higher-paying location can help. Some areas offer higher salaries for preschool teachers. Research locations with better pay and consider relocating if possible. Urban areas often offer higher pay than rural areas.
- Advance your education with certifications or degrees.
- Gain experience by starting in entry-level positions.
- Consider relocating to higher-paying areas.
- Seek out leadership roles within your school.
- Network with other professionals to find higher-paying opportunities.
Finally, taking on additional responsibilities can boost your salary. Leadership roles, such as lead teacher or curriculum coordinator, often come with higher pay. Networking with other professionals can also open doors to higher-paying jobs. Attend job fairs and connect with other educators.



