Substitute Teacher Salaries

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Substitute Teacher make?

The average salary for a Substitute Teacher is $41,474 per year in the US.

Substitute teachers play a vital role in the education system. They step in when regular teachers are absent, ensuring that students continue to learn. The salary for substitute teachers can vary based on experience and location. On average, a substitute teacher earns around $41,474 per year. This figure can change depending on several factors.

Several elements influence a substitute teacher's salary. These include the state or region, the school district, and the teacher's experience. For instance, teachers in larger cities or more affluent areas may earn more. Those with more experience often see higher pay. The demand for substitute teachers in a particular area can also affect salaries. In regions with a shortage of substitutes, salaries might be higher to attract more candidates. Understanding these factors can help job seekers make informed decisions about pursuing this career path.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Substitute Teacher?

Substitute Teacher jobs offer competitive pay in several cities. San Francisco, CA, leads with an average salary of $71,161. Other top cities include Bakersfield, CA, and Vallejo, CA, where salaries reach $65,654 and $65,561, respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking higher pay in the education sector.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $71,161 and Worcester, MA with the lowest at $53,110.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $71,161
    In San Francisco, educators have the chance to work in a vibrant, diverse environment. The city's schools offer many opportunities for professional growth. Companies like Teach For America and various charter schools provide excellent platforms for teaching.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $65,654
    Bakersfield offers a welcoming community for teachers. The city's schools focus on creating a supportive learning environment. Working with local districts and organizations like Bakersfield City School District can lead to rewarding experiences.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  3. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $65,561
    Vallejo provides a unique setting for teachers to make a difference. The city's schools value innovation and community involvement. Opportunities with districts like Vallejo City Unified School District can enhance teaching skills.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Vallejo, CA


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $57,958
    Los Angeles offers a dynamic and diverse teaching experience. The city's large school system provides many opportunities for professional development. Working with districts like Los Angeles Unified School District can be very fulfilling.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $57,800
    San Jose is a tech hub with a strong emphasis on education. Teachers here benefit from a supportive community and innovative programs. Opportunities with districts like San Jose Unified School District can be very rewarding.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Jose, CA


  6. Salem, OR
    Average Salary: $57,249
    Salem offers a peaceful and supportive environment for educators. The city's schools are known for their strong community ties. Working with local districts can provide a rewarding experience.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Salem, OR


  7. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $54,289
    Boulder provides a vibrant and engaging setting for teachers. The city's schools focus on outdoor education and community involvement. Opportunities with districts like Boulder Valley School District can be very fulfilling.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Boulder, CO


  8. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $53,740
    Stockton offers a diverse and welcoming community for educators. The city's schools value creativity and innovation. Working with local districts can provide a rewarding experience.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Stockton, CA


  9. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $53,694
    Santa Rosa provides a supportive and engaging environment for teachers. The city's schools focus on community and student success. Opportunities with districts like Santa Rosa City Schools can be very rewarding.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  10. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $53,110
    Worcester offers a diverse and supportive community for educators. The city's schools value innovation and student success. Working with local districts can provide a rewarding experience.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Worcester, MA

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

Substitute teachers can find top-paying opportunities with The Stepping Stones Group, offering an average salary of $72,794. Robbinsdale Area Schools and Arlington Public Schools also provide competitive pay, with averages around $72,695 and $71,620, respectively. These companies recognize the value of substitute teachers and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting The Stepping Stones Group with the highest at $72,794 and Round Lake Area Schools District #116 with the lowest at $63,750.
  1. The Stepping Stones Group
    Average Salary: $72,794
    The Stepping Stones Group offers rewarding Substitute Teacher jobs. They work with various schools across the country. This company values flexibility and offers competitive pay. They have locations in many states.


  2. Robbinsdale Area Schools
    Average Salary: $72,695
    Robbinsdale Area Schools provides Substitute Teacher positions with a strong community focus. They are located in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. This district is known for its supportive environment and professional development opportunities.


  3. Arlington Public Schools
    Average Salary: $71,620
    Arlington Public Schools offers Substitute Teacher jobs with a focus on student success. They are located in Arlington, Virginia. This school district values diversity and offers a collaborative work environment.


  4. Ednovate
    Average Salary: $70,600
    Ednovate provides Substitute Teacher positions with a focus on innovation. They work with schools in various locations. This company offers a dynamic work environment and opportunities for professional growth.


  5. Worcester Public Schools
    Average Salary: $70,256
    Worcester Public Schools offers Substitute Teacher jobs with a strong community presence. They are located in Worcester, Massachusetts. This district is known for its commitment to student achievement and teacher support.


  6. Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279
    Average Salary: $67,250
    Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279 provides Substitute Teacher positions with a focus on quality education. They are located in Osseo, Minnesota. This district offers a supportive environment and professional development opportunities.


  7. Swing Education
    Average Salary: $65,461
    Swing Education offers Substitute Teacher jobs with a focus on flexibility. They work with schools across the country. This company values teachers and offers competitive pay. They have locations in many states.


  8. YES Prep Public Schools
    Average Salary: $65,000
    YES Prep Public Schools provides Substitute Teacher positions with a focus on student success. They are located in Houston, Texas. This district is known for its commitment to excellence and teacher support.


  9. Warren County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $64,316
    Warren County Public Schools offers Substitute Teacher jobs with a strong community focus. They are located in Warren County, Virginia. This district values diversity and offers a supportive work environment.


  10. Round Lake Area Schools District #116
    Average Salary: $63,750
    Round Lake Area Schools District #116 provides Substitute Teacher positions with a focus on quality education. They are located in Round Lake, Illinois. This district offers a supportive environment and professional development opportunities.

How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?

Substitute teaching offers flexibility and the opportunity to earn more. To maximize earnings, consider these key factors. First, gaining experience helps build a reputation. Schools often prefer teachers they know and trust. Second, specializing in high-demand subjects like math and science can lead to higher pay. Third, maintaining a professional demeanor and being punctual shows dedication. Fourth, networking with other teachers can lead to more job opportunities. Lastly, being willing to take on different grade levels and subjects can increase earning potential.

To further boost income, consider these strategies. First, seek out schools in areas with higher pay rates. Second, take on additional responsibilities like coaching or mentoring. Third, stay informed about the latest teaching trends and technologies. Fourth, pursue certifications that can lead to higher pay. Lastly, always communicate clearly with school administrators to ensure you are paid correctly and on time. By focusing on these areas, substitute teachers can significantly increase their earnings.

Currently 2,176 Substitute Teacher job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Substitute Teacher does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Substitute Teacher today.
Position
Overview
Substitute Teacher
2,176 Job Openings