How much does a Substitute Teacher make?
Substitute teachers play a crucial role in education. They help keep classrooms running smoothly even when the regular teacher is absent. Their pay can vary based on several factors. On average, a substitute teacher earns about $41,077 a year. This amount can change based on experience and location.
Salary can increase with more experience. Many substitute teachers start with lower pay and see their earnings rise over time. Location also affects the pay. Some states and school districts pay substitute teachers more than others. Factors like cost of living and local demand for teachers play a role. A substitute teacher in a busy urban area might earn more than one in a rural setting.
What are the highest paying cities for a Substitute Teacher?

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Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $97,952
Teaching in Lincoln offers a welcoming community with numerous opportunities for professional development. Schools in the area often provide support, making it easier to succeed in a classroom. Prominent educational institutions like Lincoln Public Schools provide a structured environment.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $69,951
Bakersfield offers a dynamic teaching environment with diverse student populations. The city’s schools focus on creating a supportive atmosphere for educators. Kern High School District is a key player in the region, providing ample growth opportunities.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $66,230
Teaching in Vallejo means joining a community that values education. The area’s schools emphasize student engagement and teacher collaboration. Local districts like Solano County Office of Education offer a nurturing setting for new educators.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $63,344
Worcester’s schools are known for their strong educational programs. Substitute teachers here benefit from a supportive network of colleagues. Worcester Public Schools provide a structured environment that values innovation.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $61,308
Teaching in Los Angeles offers a diverse and vibrant setting. The city’s schools are known for their multicultural environments. Substitute teachers can expect varied experiences in districts like Los Angeles Unified School District.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $60,955
San Francisco provides a unique educational landscape with many opportunities for professional growth. The city’s schools are innovative and forward-thinking. Substitute teachers here often work in environments that value creativity and diversity.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $59,290
Teaching in Salem offers a balanced approach to education. The city’s schools focus on both academic excellence and student well-being. Salem-Keizer School District provides a supportive environment for substitute teachers.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $57,187
Minneapolis offers a rich educational environment with strong community support. The city’s schools emphasize student achievement and teacher development. Substitute teachers here can expect a collaborative atmosphere in districts like Minneapolis Public Schools.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $57,143
Teaching in Buffalo means joining a community that values education and innovation. The city’s schools are dedicated to providing quality education. Buffalo Public Schools offer a supportive setting for substitute teachers.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $55,506
San Jose provides a dynamic teaching environment with a focus on technology and innovation. The city’s schools are known for their strong academic programs. Substitute teachers here often work in environments that value creativity and student engagement.
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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: $285,683
West Fargo Public Schools offers a range of substitute teaching opportunities. They are located in North Dakota and provide competitive salaries. The school district values education and offers a supportive environment.
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Worcester Public Schools
Average Salary: $90,556
Worcester Public Schools in Massachusetts provides substitute teaching jobs with a good salary. They operate multiple schools across the city and offer professional growth opportunities.
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Southeast Delco School District
Average Salary: $76,303
The Southeast Delco School District in Pennsylvania offers substitute teacher positions with a decent salary. They focus on student success and offer a welcoming community for educators.
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Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools
Average Salary: $75,947
Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools in New Jersey provide substitute teaching jobs with a good salary. They operate several schools in the area and emphasize a collaborative work environment.
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Silver Lake Regional School District
Average Salary: $73,600
Silver Lake Regional School District in Massachusetts offers substitute teaching positions with a strong salary. They focus on academic excellence and provide a supportive workplace.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $73,440
The Stepping Stones Group provides substitute teaching jobs across multiple locations. They offer competitive salaries and support professional development for teachers.
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Ednovate
Average Salary: $70,986
Ednovate offers substitute teaching positions with a good salary. They operate in several locations and are known for their innovative approach to education.
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BRIDGEWATER-RAYNHAM REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Average Salary: $70,342
BRIDGEWATER-RAYNHAM REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT in Massachusetts provides substitute teaching jobs with a decent salary. They focus on student success and offer a supportive work environment.
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MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Average Salary: $70,000
MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS in Minnesota offers substitute teaching positions with a competitive salary. They are dedicated to providing quality education and support their teachers.
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shaker heights city school district
Average Salary: $69,548
The Shaker Heights City School District in Ohio offers substitute teaching jobs with a good salary. They operate several schools and value professional growth.
How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?
To earn more as a substitute teacher, consider these key strategies. These tips can help improve income and job satisfaction.
First, gaining experience in multiple school districts opens doors to higher-paying opportunities. Schools may offer better rates for teachers who have a wider range of credentials. Second, attending professional development workshops enhances skills and knowledge. This leads to better teaching quality and a higher demand for services. Third, networking with other teachers and school staff builds strong relationships. This often results in more job referrals and recommendations. Fourth, specializing in high-demand subjects such as math, science, or special education can lead to higher pay. Schools often seek qualified substitutes in these areas. Finally, maintaining a clean background check and professional demeanor increases chances of securing higher-paying assignments.
Substitute teachers who focus on these areas find themselves in higher demand and better-paying positions.
Here are some actionable tips to increase earnings:
- Gain experience in multiple school districts.
- Attend professional development workshops.
- Network with other educators and school staff.
- Specialize in high-demand subjects.
- Keep a clean professional record.



