Substitute Teacher Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Substitute Teacher make?

The average salary for a Substitute Teacher is $40,275 per year in the US.

Substitute teachers play a crucial role in the education system. They step in when regular teachers are absent. This job offers a unique chance to work in different schools and classrooms. The salary for substitute teachers can vary based on experience and location.

On average, a substitute teacher earns around $40,275 per year. This amount can change based on several factors. For example, teachers in larger cities often earn more. Those with more experience may also see higher pay. Some substitute teachers earn less, while others make more. The range can go from about $22,375 to $74,000 per year. This range shows that there is potential for growth in this field.

View Substitute Teacher jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Substitute Teacher?

Substitute teachers in San Francisco, California, earn the highest average salary at $70,860 per year. Bakersfield, California, and Vallejo, California, follow closely with average salaries of $64,886 and $64,572, respectively. These cities offer competitive pay for substitute teaching positions, making them attractive for job seekers in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $70,860 and Stockton, CA with the lowest at $53,662.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $70,860
    San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for educators. With a diverse student population, teachers can expect to engage with a variety of cultural backgrounds. The city's strong emphasis on education makes it an exciting place for those looking to make an impact.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $64,886
    In Bakersfield, educators find a supportive community. The city's schools value the contributions of substitute teachers. With a growing student population, there are ample opportunities for those willing to step in and support learning.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  3. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $64,572
    Vallejo provides a welcoming atmosphere for educators. The city's schools are committed to student success, and substitute teachers play a key role in this mission. Teachers can expect a collaborative environment that values their contributions.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Vallejo, CA


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $58,242
    Los Angeles offers a vibrant setting for educators. With a large and diverse student body, teachers can expect to engage with a wide range of experiences. The city's commitment to education makes it a great place for those looking to make a difference.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $57,599
    San Jose is a hub for education and innovation. The city's schools are known for their strong academic programs. Substitute teachers can expect to work in a dynamic environment that values their expertise.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Jose, CA


  6. Salem, OR
    Average Salary: $57,340
    Salem offers a peaceful and supportive environment for educators. The city's schools are committed to providing quality education. Substitute teachers can expect to work in a community that values their contributions.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Salem, OR


  7. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $55,472
    Boulder provides a unique and engaging environment for educators. The city's schools are known for their progressive approach to education. Substitute teachers can expect to work in a community that values creativity and innovation.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Boulder, CO


  8. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $54,007
    Buffalo offers a diverse and dynamic environment for educators. The city's schools are committed to student success. Substitute teachers can expect to work in a community that values their contributions and expertise.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Buffalo, NY


  9. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $53,979
    Santa Rosa provides a supportive and engaging environment for educators. The city's schools are known for their strong community involvement. Substitute teachers can expect to work in a collaborative environment that values their contributions.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  10. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $53,662
    Stockton offers a welcoming and supportive environment for educators. The city's schools are committed to providing quality education. Substitute teachers can expect to work in a community that values their expertise and contributions.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Stockton, CA

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

Illinois School District U-46 offers the highest pay for substitute teachers, with an average salary of $344,498. Robbinsdale Area Schools and The Stepping Stones Group also provide competitive salaries, with averages of $74,332 and $73,515, respectively. These companies offer attractive compensation packages, making them top choices for substitute teachers seeking rewarding job opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting Illinois School District U-46 with the highest at $344,498 and Warren County Public Schools with the lowest at $64,316.
  1. Illinois School District U-46
    Average Salary: $344,498
    Illinois School District U-46 provides Substitute Teacher jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in Illinois, offering a variety of educational opportunities. Their commitment to quality education makes them a top choice for educators.


  2. Robbinsdale Area Schools
    Average Salary: $74,332
    Robbinsdale Area Schools offers Substitute Teacher positions with a solid salary. They serve the communities in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. This district values education and offers a supportive environment for teachers.


  3. The Stepping Stones Group
    Average Salary: $73,515
    The Stepping Stones Group provides Substitute Teacher jobs with a good salary. They operate in multiple locations across the United States. This company offers flexibility and a range of educational settings for teachers.


  4. Arlington Public Schools
    Average Salary: $71,620
    Arlington Public Schools offers Substitute Teacher positions with a competitive salary. They serve Arlington, Virginia. This district is known for its dedication to student success and teacher support.


  5. Ednovate
    Average Salary: $70,400
    Ednovate provides Substitute Teacher jobs with a strong salary. They operate in various locations, focusing on innovative education. Their commitment to educational excellence makes them a great choice for educators.


  6. Worcester Public Schools
    Average Salary: $68,624
    Worcester Public Schools offers Substitute Teacher positions with a good salary. They serve Worcester, Massachusetts. This district is known for its supportive community and dedication to student achievement.


  7. Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279
    Average Salary: $67,250
    Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279 provides Substitute Teacher jobs with a solid salary. They operate in the Osseo area, Minnesota. This district values education and offers a collaborative environment for teachers.


  8. Swing Education
    Average Salary: $65,579
    Swing Education offers Substitute Teacher positions with a fair salary. They operate in multiple locations across the United States. This company provides flexibility and a variety of educational settings for teachers.


  9. YES Prep Public Schools
    Average Salary: $65,000
    YES Prep Public Schools provides Substitute Teacher jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in Texas, focusing on college and career readiness. Their commitment to student success makes them a top choice for educators.


  10. Warren County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $64,316
    Warren County Public Schools offers Substitute Teacher positions with a good salary. They serve Warren County, Virginia. This district is known for its supportive community and dedication to student achievement.

How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?

Substitute teaching offers flexibility and the chance to earn more. To maximize earnings, consider these key factors. First, gaining experience helps build a strong reputation. Schools often prefer teachers they know and trust. Second, specializing in high-demand subjects like math or science can lead to higher pay. Third, maintaining a clean background check ensures eligibility for more job opportunities. Fourth, being punctual and reliable makes a positive impression. Lastly, networking with other teachers can lead to more job offers.

To increase earnings, substitute teachers should focus on these strategies. First, seek out schools in areas with higher pay rates. Research local school districts to find these locations. Second, take advantage of any available bonuses. Many schools offer extra pay for certain qualifications or certifications. Third, consider working during peak times. Substitutes are often needed during holidays or when teachers are absent. Fourth, aim to work in multiple schools. This can increase the number of days available for teaching. Lastly, stay organized and keep track of job opportunities. Use a planner or digital tool to manage assignments.

Currently 2,178 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
2,178 Job Openings