Overview Salaries

Substitute Teacher Salaries

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
Position
Salary

How much does a Substitute Teacher make?

The average salary for a Substitute Teacher is $41,234 per year in the US.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Substitute Teacher positions, showing an average salary of $41,234 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Substitute Teacher positions, showing an average salary of $41,234 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Substitute Teacher positions, showing an average salary of $41,234 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Substitute Teacher positions, showing an average salary of $41,234 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Substitute teachers play a key role in the education system. They step in when a regular teacher is absent. The salary for substitute teachers can vary. The average yearly salary for this job is about $41,234. This number comes from looking at the different income levels of substitute teachers.


Many substitute teachers make between $27,850 and $65,300 a year. Here is how the income breaks down:

  • 6.47% earn less than $22,500
  • 19.75% earn between $22,500 and $27,850
  • 20.70% earn between $27,850 and $33,200
  • 16.07% earn between $33,200 and $38,550
  • 10.83% earn between $38,550 and $43,900
  • 9.05% earn between $43,900 and $49,250
  • 4.45% earn between $49,250 and $54,600
  • 3.75% earn between $54,600 and $59,950
  • 2.18% earn between $59,950 and $65,300
  • 0.94% earn between $65,300 and $70,650
  • 0.80% earn more than $70,650

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What are the highest paying cities for a Substitute Teacher?

Substitute Teachers can find lucrative job opportunities in several cities. Fargo, ND, offers the highest average salary for this role. Other top cities include Lincoln, NE, and Bakersfield, CA, where salaries are also competitive. Exploring options in Vallejo, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, may provide attractive compensation packages as well. Buffalo, NY, Worcester, MA, and San Francisco, CA, show promising salaries for Substitute Teachers. Positions in Salem, OR, and Minneapolis, MN, also provide good earning potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting Fargo, ND with the highest at $194,261 and Minneapolis, MN with the lowest at $57,910.

  1. Fargo, ND
    Average Salary: $194,261
    In Fargo, one can find fulfilling opportunities teaching across various grades. The local school district collaborates with prominent organizations like Great Plains Education Association to support educators. Job seekers can enjoy a strong community and a focus on student success.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Fargo, ND


  2. Lincoln, NE
    Average Salary: $97,952
    Working as an educator in Lincoln offers a welcoming environment with supportive colleagues. Schools here partner with Lincoln Public Schools, providing numerous growth opportunities. Teachers can look forward to a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Lincoln, NE


  3. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $68,512
    Bakersfield presents a dynamic teaching environment where substitute teachers can engage with diverse student populations. The Kern High School District is a key player, offering various professional development programs. The city's growth makes it an exciting place to teach and learn.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  4. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $66,612
    Teaching in Vallejo means joining a dedicated community of educators. The Solano County Office of Education offers numerous resources to support substitute teachers. The waterfront location adds a unique charm to the city, making it a pleasant place to work and live.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Vallejo, CA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $62,379
    Los Angeles offers a bustling educational landscape with many opportunities for substitute teachers. The Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest in the nation, providing a variety of experiences. The city's diverse culture enriches the teaching environment.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $61,690
    Buffalo provides a strong network for substitute educators with the Buffalo Public Schools system. Teachers here benefit from a supportive community and various professional growth options. The city's rich history and vibrant arts scene add to the teaching experience.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Buffalo, NY


  7. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $61,030
    In Worcester, educators find a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on innovation. The Worcester Public Schools system supports substitute teachers with various resources. The city's proximity to Boston offers additional cultural and professional opportunities.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Worcester, MA


  8. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $59,636
    San Francisco offers a unique teaching experience with diverse student populations. The San Francisco Unified School District provides numerous opportunities for professional development. The city's tech-driven environment adds an exciting dimension to the educational experience.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  9. Salem, OR
    Average Salary: $59,305
    Salem presents a supportive teaching environment with the Salem-Keizer School District. Teachers here benefit from a close-knit community and a variety of professional development opportunities. The city’s historic charm makes it a pleasant place to work and live.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Salem, OR


  10. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $57,910
    Minneapolis offers a vibrant educational landscape for substitute teachers. The Minneapolis Public Schools system provides extensive support and resources. The city’s cultural scene and outdoor activities enrich the overall experience for educators.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Minneapolis, MN

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

West Fargo Public Schools pays substitute teachers the most, with an average salary of about $413,448. Worcester Public Schools and Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools also offer competitive wages for this role. The Stepping Stones Group and Billerica Public Schools provide good salaries, too, around $74,000 on average. Exploring opportunities with these schools can lead to rewarding and well-compensated positions. Companies like YMCA of the East Bay and Shrewsbury Public Schools also offer stable incomes for substitute teachers. Each of these employers provides a supportive environment and valuable experience for those in the education field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting West Fargo Public Schools with the highest at $413,448 and Shrewsbury Public Schools with the lowest at $65,333.

  1. West Fargo Public Schools
    Average Salary: $413,448
    West Fargo Public Schools offers rewarding Substitute Teacher jobs. This district operates in North Dakota, providing numerous opportunities for substitute teaching roles. The schools emphasize a supportive environment for teachers and students alike.


  2. Worcester Public Schools
    Average Salary: $92,132
    Worcester Public Schools offers competitive salaries for Substitute Teachers. Located in Massachusetts, the district values education and aims to provide a nurturing learning environment. Substitute teachers here play a crucial role in maintaining educational standards.


  3. Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools
    Average Salary: $75,333
    Manalapan Englishtown Regional Schools provides a positive work atmosphere for Substitute Teachers. This district is in New Jersey and prides itself on creating a collaborative educational experience. Substitute teachers contribute to the smooth operation of classrooms across multiple locations.


  4. The Stepping Stones Group
    Average Salary: $74,441
    The Stepping Stones Group offers Substitute Teacher positions with a strong support system. This private agency operates across the United States, partnering with various school districts. They focus on providing quality education and flexible opportunities for substitute teachers.


  5. BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
    Average Salary: $72,188
    BILLERICA PUBLIC SCHOOLS provide Substitute Teacher jobs with a competitive salary. Located in Massachusetts, they aim to create a vibrant learning community. Substitute teachers here have the chance to impact students’ lives positively and contribute to a dynamic school environment.


  6. shaker heights city school district
    Average Salary: $71,523
    The Shaker Heights City School District offers Substitute Teacher roles with a good salary package. This district in Ohio emphasizes academic excellence and community involvement. Substitute teachers here play a vital role in maintaining the high standards of education.


  7. Zen Educate
    Average Salary: $71,516
    Zen Educate offers Substitute Teacher positions with a fair salary. This agency works with schools in various locations, providing flexible and rewarding opportunities. They focus on creating a positive impact on students’ learning experiences.


  8. Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279
    Average Salary: $69,626
    Osseo Area Schools - ISD 279 provides Substitute Teacher jobs with a good compensation package. This district in Minnesota aims to offer a nurturing educational environment. Substitute teachers here contribute to a positive and engaging classroom experience.


  9. YMCA of the East Bay
    Average Salary: $67,818
    YMCA of the East Bay offers Substitute Teacher opportunities with a decent salary. This organization focuses on community and education, providing flexible roles. Substitute teachers here have the chance to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives.


  10. Shrewsbury Public Schools
    Average Salary: $65,333
    Shrewsbury Public Schools provides Substitute Teacher positions with a solid salary. Located in Massachusetts, they emphasize academic growth and a supportive learning environment. Substitute teachers here are integral to maintaining the district’s educational standards.

How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?

Becoming a substitute teacher can be a fulfilling career. It also offers a chance to earn more. Here are some ways to increase earnings in this role.

First, gaining more experience will help. Schools often pay more to teachers with more time in the classroom. Second, specializing in high-demand subjects like math or science can lead to higher pay. Third, obtaining certifications can boost earnings. Certificates in special education or ESL can make a substitute teacher more valuable. Fourth, working in areas with a shortage of teachers will likely result in higher pay. Fifth, networking within the school district can lead to more job opportunities. Building a good relationship with school administrators can open doors to higher-paying assignments.

Substitute teachers who follow these tips can earn more. They can also make their career more rewarding and stable.

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Specialize in high-demand subjects
  3. Obtain additional certifications
  4. Work in high-need areas
  5. Network within the school district

Currently 2,125 Substitute Teacher job openings, nationwide.

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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.
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Substitute Teacher
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