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. Their job is to keep the classroom running smoothly. The average yearly salary for a substitute teacher is around $40,865. This can vary based on several factors.
Several things can affect the salary of a substitute teacher. These include the location and the school district. Some areas pay more than others. Urban districts often have higher salaries compared to rural ones. The level of experience also matters. More experienced substitute teachers may earn more than those just starting out. Additionally, the demand for substitute teachers in a particular area can influence pay rates.
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 community makes it a great place for educators. Substitutes can gain valuable experience in diverse classrooms.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $70,855
Bakersfield provides a vibrant environment for substitute teachers. Working with Kern High School District allows for interaction with a wide range of students. The city's growing economy offers many opportunities for career growth.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $65,503
Vallejo offers a unique setting for substitute teachers. The city's schools, including the Vallejo City Unified School District, provide a mix of urban and suburban experiences. Substitutes can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while gaining valuable teaching experience.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $64,382
Worcester is a historic city with a strong educational system. Substitute teachers can work with Worcester Public Schools, gaining experience in a diverse and dynamic community. The city's rich culture adds to the rewarding experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $61,140
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment for substitute teachers. Working with the Los Angeles Unified School District provides exposure to a wide variety of students. The city's entertainment industry also offers unique cultural experiences.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $60,468
San Francisco provides a vibrant and diverse setting for substitute teachers. Working with the San Francisco Unified School District offers a mix of urban and progressive educational experiences. The city's tech industry adds to the dynamic work environment.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $59,262
Salem offers a peaceful and supportive environment for substitute teachers. Working with Salem-Keizer School District provides a mix of suburban and rural experiences. The city's strong community spirit makes it a rewarding place to work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $56,236
San Jose offers a fast-paced and innovative environment for substitute teachers. Working with the San Jose Unified School District provides exposure to a diverse and tech-savvy student population. The city's booming economy offers many opportunities for career growth.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $55,229
Buffalo provides a vibrant and diverse setting for substitute teachers. Working with the Buffalo Public Schools offers a mix of urban and suburban experiences. The city's strong community spirit makes it a rewarding place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $54,538
Seattle offers a dynamic and innovative environment for substitute teachers. Working with the Seattle Public Schools provides exposure to a diverse and tech-savvy student population. The city's strong community spirit makes it a rewarding place to work.
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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: $253,212
West Fargo Public Schools offers competitive salaries for Substitute Teachers. They operate in West Fargo, North Dakota, providing a supportive environment for teaching. The district emphasizes professional growth and community involvement.
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Worcester Public Schools
Average Salary: $87,235
Worcester Public Schools in Massachusetts offers a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Worcester, offering a diverse educational experience. The district focuses on innovation and student success.
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Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools
Average Salary: $78,642
Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools in New Jersey provides a fair salary for Substitute Teachers. They operate in Manalapan and Englishtown, offering a nurturing educational environment. The district values collaboration and student achievement.
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Southeast Delco School District
Average Salary: $76,188
Southeast Delco School District in Pennsylvania offers a solid salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in the southeastern part of Delaware County. The district emphasizes community engagement and student development.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $72,402
The Stepping Stones Group provides a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They operate in various locations, offering flexible teaching opportunities. The company focuses on professional development and student success.
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Ednovate
Average Salary: $70,913
Ednovate offers a competitive salary for Substitute Teachers. They work in multiple locations, providing innovative educational opportunities. The company emphasizes creativity and student engagement.
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BRIDGEWATER-RAYNHAM REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Average Salary: $70,342
BRIDGEWATER-RAYNHAM REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT in Massachusetts offers a fair salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Bridgewater and Raynham. The district focuses on academic excellence and community involvement.
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MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Average Salary: $69,750
MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS in Minnesota provides a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They operate in Mounds View, offering a supportive educational environment. The district values diversity and student achievement.
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shaker heights city school district
Average Salary: $68,615
Shaker Heights City School District in Ohio offers a fair salary for Substitute Teachers. They serve students in Shaker Heights, providing a strong educational foundation. The district emphasizes community and student success.
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Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279
Average Salary: $68,082
Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279 in Minnesota offers a good salary for Substitute Teachers. They operate in Osseo and surrounding areas, offering a supportive educational environment. The district focuses on student growth and community involvement.
How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?
Substitute teaching can be a rewarding career choice, offering flexibility and the chance to make a difference in many students' lives. To maximize earnings in this role, consider these key factors. Building a strong reputation with schools and teachers can lead to more frequent and longer-term assignments. Establishing connections with school administrators and teachers helps create a network that can provide more job opportunities. Flexibility in scheduling can also increase earning potential. Being available during peak times, such as before and after school, or on days when regular teachers are absent, can lead to more assignments and higher pay. Additionally, investing in professional development can enhance skills and qualifications, making a substitute teacher more attractive to hiring schools. Continuous learning and certification in specialized areas can open up higher-paying opportunities.
Another important factor is gaining experience in high-demand subjects or grade levels. Schools often seek substitutes with expertise in specific areas, such as special education, STEM, or foreign languages. Having specialized skills can command higher pay rates. Lastly, maintaining a positive attitude and professional demeanor can lead to better job offers and longer-term contracts. Schools value substitutes who are reliable, adaptable, and capable of managing a classroom effectively. By focusing on these factors, substitute teachers can increase their earning potential and job satisfaction.
Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Build relationships with school staff.
- Be flexible with scheduling.
- Invest in professional development.
- Gain expertise in high-demand subjects.
- Maintain a positive and professional attitude.



