How much does a Substitute Teacher make?
Substitute teachers play a vital role in the education system. They step in when regular teachers are absent, ensuring students continue learning. The average yearly salary for a substitute teacher is around $40,427. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for substitute teachers can be quite broad. At the lower end, some earn as little as $22,350. As experience grows, so does the salary. The top earners in this field can make up to $75,800. This range shows that with dedication and experience, substitute teachers can see significant increases in their earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Substitute Teacher?

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Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $97,952
In Lincoln, teaching as a substitute offers a chance to work with Lincoln Public Schools. The city's supportive environment makes it a great place for educators to gain experience. Opportunities exist in various schools, providing a diverse teaching experience.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $70,423
Bakersfield provides a vibrant setting for substitute teachers. Working with Kern High School District allows for interaction with a diverse student body. The city's growing economy offers a stable job market.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $64,572
Vallejo offers a unique opportunity for substitute teachers to work with the Vallejo City Unified School District. The city's rich history and community spirit make it an engaging place to teach. Substitutes can enjoy a mix of urban and suburban experiences.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $62,327
In Worcester, substitute teaching positions are available with the Worcester Public Schools. The city's strong educational focus provides a supportive environment for educators. Substitutes can expect a mix of urban and suburban school settings.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $59,902
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for substitute teachers. Working with the San Francisco Unified School District allows for a diverse teaching experience. The city's vibrant culture and economy provide a unique backdrop for educators.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $59,442
Los Angeles provides a rich setting for substitute teachers. Working with the Los Angeles Unified School District offers a diverse teaching experience. The city's entertainment industry and cultural diversity make it an exciting place to work.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $58,396
In Salem, substitute teaching positions are available with the Salem-Keizer School District. The city's strong community focus provides a supportive environment for educators. Substitutes can enjoy a mix of urban and suburban experiences.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $56,895
San Jose offers a vibrant setting for substitute teachers. Working with the San Jose Unified School District allows for a diverse teaching experience. The city's tech industry and cultural diversity make it an exciting place to work.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $56,207
Boulder provides a unique opportunity for substitute teachers. Working with Boulder Valley School District allows for a diverse teaching experience. The city's outdoor lifestyle and vibrant community make it an engaging place to teach.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $54,433
In Santa Rosa, substitute teaching positions are available with the Santa Rosa City Schools. The city's strong community focus provides a supportive environment for educators. Substitutes can enjoy a mix of urban and suburban experiences.
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What are the best companies a Substitute Teacher can work for?

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West Fargo Public Schools
Average Salary: $89,435
West Fargo Public Schools offers competitive salaries for Substitute Teachers. They operate in West Fargo, North Dakota. They provide a supportive environment for educators and value the role of substitute teachers in maintaining educational continuity.
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Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools
Average Salary: $83,881
Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools in New Jersey offers attractive salaries for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Manalapan and Englishtown. The district emphasizes professional development and a collaborative teaching environment.
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Worcester Public Schools
Average Salary: $83,714
Worcester Public Schools in Massachusetts provides a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They operate in Worcester and surrounding areas. The district focuses on student achievement and offers a supportive community for educators.
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Robbinsdale Area Schools
Average Salary: $76,371
Robbinsdale Area Schools in Minnesota offers a competitive salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Robbinsdale and nearby areas. The district values diversity and offers a nurturing educational environment.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $73,222
The Stepping Stones Group provides Substitute Teacher positions with a solid salary. They operate in multiple locations across the United States. They focus on creating a positive learning experience for students.
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Arlington Public Schools
Average Salary: $73,151
Arlington Public Schools in Massachusetts offers a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Arlington and surrounding areas. The district emphasizes academic excellence and a supportive school culture.
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Ednovate
Average Salary: $70,619
Ednovate offers Substitute Teacher positions with a competitive salary. They operate in various locations. They focus on innovative educational practices and a collaborative teaching environment.
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Aspire Public Schools
Average Salary: $70,419
Aspire Public Schools provides a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They operate in multiple locations. The district emphasizes college preparation and a supportive learning environment.
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Warren County Public Schools
Average Salary: $69,641
Warren County Public Schools in Virginia offers a solid salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Warren County. The district focuses on student success and a collaborative teaching community.
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Mounds View Public Schools
Average Salary: $68,104
Mounds View Public Schools in Minnesota offers a competitive salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Mounds View and nearby areas. The district emphasizes academic achievement and a supportive school environment.
How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?
Substitute teaching offers flexibility and the chance to earn more. To maximize earnings, consider the following factors. Each one plays a crucial role in increasing your income potential.
First, gaining experience helps. Schools often pay more to teachers with more years in the classroom. Second, having a teaching certificate or degree can lead to higher pay. Third, working in areas with a shortage of teachers can result in higher pay rates. Fourth, taking on additional responsibilities, like coaching or mentoring, can boost earnings. Lastly, being willing to work extra hours, such as before or after school, can increase income.
By focusing on these factors, substitute teachers can enhance their earning potential. Each step helps build a more rewarding career in education.
Consider these key points to improve your earnings:
- Gain experience to earn higher rates.
- Obtain a teaching certificate or degree.
- Work in areas with teacher shortages.
- Take on extra roles like coaching.
- Be willing to work extra hours.



