Preschool Teacher Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Preschool Teacher make?

The average salary for a Preschool Teacher is $36,201 per year in the US.

Preschool teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds. They earn a respectable salary that reflects their important work. On average, a preschool teacher makes about $36,201 a year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of institution they work for.

Factors that can affect a preschool teacher's salary include:

  • Experience: Teachers with more experience often earn higher salaries.
  • Location: Urban areas tend to offer higher wages compared to rural areas.
  • Type of Institution: Private schools may offer higher salaries than public schools.

These variations show that with more experience and in certain locations, preschool teachers can earn even more. This makes the job both rewarding and financially viable for those who choose to enter this field.

View Preschool Teacher jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Preschool Teacher?

Job seekers looking to become preschool teachers can find some of the highest salaries in cities like San Francisco, CA, and Salinas, CA. These cities offer competitive pay and a chance to make a difference in young children's lives. Exploring job opportunities in these areas can lead to rewarding careers with excellent compensation.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Preschool Teacher jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $56,900 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $43,976.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $56,900
    In San Francisco, educators enjoy a vibrant community. The city offers many opportunities for professional growth. Schools like the Children's Creative Center provide enriching environments.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $53,526
    Salinas offers a welcoming environment for teachers. The city's focus on education creates a supportive atmosphere. Local schools like Salinas Valley Unified School District value dedicated educators.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Salinas, CA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $51,122
    San Jose provides a dynamic setting for teaching. The city's diverse population enriches classroom experiences. Schools such as the Early Learning Center offer excellent resources.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $47,968
    Seattle is a great place for educators. The city's commitment to education is evident. Schools like Seattle Public Schools provide a nurturing environment.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $47,122
    Boulder offers a healthy work-life balance. The city's outdoor activities enhance the teaching experience. Local schools such as the Boulder Valley School District value creativity.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Boulder, CO


  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $47,080
    In Washington, DC, teachers benefit from a rich cultural environment. The city's educational institutions offer many opportunities. Schools like the District of Columbia Public Schools provide a vibrant setting.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $46,368
    Santa Rosa provides a peaceful setting for educators. The city's focus on family values creates a supportive atmosphere. Schools like the Santa Rosa City Schools offer excellent resources.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  8. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $45,704
    Boston offers a historic and educational environment. The city's many institutions provide rich learning experiences. Schools like the Boston Public Schools value innovation.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Boston, MA


  9. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $44,745
    Providence offers a close-knit community for teachers. The city's dedication to education creates a supportive atmosphere. Local schools like the Providence Public School District value dedication.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Providence, RI


  10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $43,976
    Los Angeles provides a diverse and dynamic environment. The city's many opportunities enhance the teaching experience. Schools like the Los Angeles Unified School District offer a vibrant setting.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Los Angeles, CA

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

CAPS Collaborative offers the highest salary for Preschool Teachers at $78,944. Wu Yee Children's Services follows closely with an annual salary of $77,933. Elwyn provides a competitive salary of $75,943 per year. These top-paying companies provide excellent benefits and opportunities for professional growth. Job seekers can expect a rewarding career with a strong emphasis on early childhood education.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Preschool Teacher jobs, highlighting CAPS Collaborative with the highest at $78,944 and Chai Tots Preschool with the lowest at $65,761.
  1. CAPS Collaborative
    Average Salary: $78,944
    CAPS Collaborative offers Preschool Teacher jobs with a focus on early childhood education. They operate in various locations, providing a nurturing environment for young learners. Their programs emphasize social, emotional, and cognitive development.


  2. Wu Yee Children's Services
    Average Salary: $77,933
    Wu Yee Children's Services provides Preschool Teacher positions that focus on inclusive education. They serve diverse communities, ensuring every child receives quality care and education. Locations include San Francisco and Oakland.


  3. Elwyn
    Average Salary: $75,943
    Elwyn offers Preschool Teacher jobs with a mission to support individuals with special needs. They provide a supportive and enriching environment for children. Elwyn operates in Pennsylvania, offering various programs and services.


  4. Prince William County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $71,907
    Prince William County Public Schools offers Preschool Teacher jobs with a commitment to academic excellence. They serve students in Northern Virginia, providing a range of educational opportunities. Their programs focus on preparing children for future success.


  5. Mission Neighborhood Centers
    Average Salary: $71,861
    Mission Neighborhood Centers provides Preschool Teacher jobs with a focus on community engagement. They operate in San Francisco, offering programs that support children's development. Their approach combines education with social services.


  6. Anoka-Hennepin School District
    Average Salary: $71,761
    Anoka-Hennepin School District offers Preschool Teacher jobs with a strong emphasis on early childhood education. They serve students in the Twin Cities area, providing a supportive learning environment. Their programs focus on holistic child development.


  7. Hawaii State Department of Education
    Average Salary: $71,301
    Hawaii State Department of Education provides Preschool Teacher jobs with a commitment to quality education. They operate across the Hawaiian Islands, offering programs that support young learners. Their approach emphasizes cultural and community values.


  8. Manhattan Strategy Group
    Average Salary: $67,585
    Manhattan Strategy Group offers Preschool Teacher jobs with a focus on innovative education. They operate in New York City, providing programs that prepare children for future academic success. Their approach combines traditional and modern teaching methods.


  9. Kamehameha Schools
    Average Salary: $66,629
    Kamehameha Schools provides Preschool Teacher jobs with a mission to support Native Hawaiian students. They offer programs that focus on cultural and academic excellence. Locations include Hawaii and California.


  10. Chai Tots Preschool
    Average Salary: $65,761
    Chai Tots Preschool offers Preschool Teacher jobs with a focus on Jewish values and education. They operate in various locations, providing a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. Their programs emphasize both academic and spiritual growth.

How to earn more as a Preschool Teacher?

Becoming a preschool teacher can be a rewarding career. It offers the chance to shape young minds. However, like many jobs, earning potential can vary. There are several ways to increase your salary in this field. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your career path.

First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Preschool teachers with several years of experience often earn more than those just starting. Schools may also offer higher pay for teachers with specialized skills. For example, teachers who can speak a second language or have certifications in early childhood education may see higher salaries. Another way to increase earnings is by taking on additional responsibilities. This could include becoming a lead teacher or a program director. These roles often come with higher pay. Continuing education is another important factor. Teachers who pursue advanced degrees or additional certifications can earn more. Finally, location plays a significant role in salary. Preschool teachers in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living often earn more than those in rural areas.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Gain more experience
  • Obtain specialized skills or certifications
  • Take on additional responsibilities
  • Pursue advanced degrees or certifications
  • Consider location and cost of living

Currently 9,179 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.
Position
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Preschool Teacher
9,179 Job Openings