Preschool Teacher Salaries

Updated on Dec 17, 2024
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Salary

How much does a Preschool Teacher make?

The average salary for a Preschool Teacher is $35,787 per year in the US.

A Preschool Teacher plays an essential role in early childhood education. For those considering this career, understanding the potential salary can be motivating. The average yearly salary for a Preschool Teacher is around $35,787. However, salaries can vary based on experience and location.


Entry-level positions typically start at about $23,100. This figure can increase significantly with experience. Teachers with more years in the field can earn between $26,273 and $58,000, depending on their qualifications and the specific educational setting.


As you gain experience, you may find opportunities to earn more. About 20% of Preschool Teachers earn around $29,445, while another 18% might see their salaries rise to approximately $32,618. The top earners in this field can expect salaries nearing $58,000.


This career can be rewarding not only in emotional fulfillment but also in financial growth over time. With dedication and experience, Preschool Teachers can enjoy a stable and satisfying career.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Preschool Teacher?

Preschool teachers can find some of the highest salaries in cities like San Francisco, CA, where the average annual pay reaches $56,247. Other top-paying locations include San Jose and Salinas, with average salaries of $50,577 and $48,445, respectively. Job seekers in these cities can enjoy competitive wages while making a positive impact on young children's lives.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Preschool Teacher jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $56,247 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $43,570.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $56,247
    Working as an educator for young children in San Francisco offers diverse opportunities in an innovative and vibrant city. The city is home to various educational organizations like Bright Horizons and Children’s Day School, focusing on nurturing young minds.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $50,577
    Teaching young children in San Jose allows you to be part of a growing tech hub that values education. Institutions like Kidango and the Academy for Children emphasize creating a strong foundation for learning in a supportive environment.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $48,445
    In Salinas, you will have the chance to make a difference in a community rich in culture and agriculture. Local centers, such as the Salinas Valley Community Health Foundation, work to provide children with a solid start in their early education.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Salinas, CA


  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $47,466
    Seattle offers a dynamic setting for those teaching early childhood education, with a focus on creativity and inclusivity. Renowned organizations such as the Seattle Kindering Center create enriching experiences for young learners.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $45,228
    Working with young children in the nation’s capital presents unique experiences in education and cultural diversity. Institutions like the Washington Language School emphasize the importance of early learning and instill a love for education.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $45,085
    Boston provides a rich educational landscape as an educator for young children. With institutions like the Boston Children's Museum and various high-quality daycares, you will engage with innovative approaches to early childhood education.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Boston, MA


  7. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $44,509
    In Santa Rosa, you can contribute to the growth of children in a community known for its parks and art. Organizations like the Sonoma Country Day School prioritize early education, fostering creativity and exploration.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  8. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $44,055
    Boulder offers an inspiring environment for teaching young children with its commitment to outdoor education and healthy living. Schools like the Boulder Valley School District emphasize hands-on learning and community involvement.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Boulder, CO


  9. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $43,934
    Teaching young learners in Santa Maria allows you to be part of a nurturing community. Local centers, such as Good Samaritan Shelter, focus on providing early education services to families, enriching the lives of children.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $43,570
    Los Angeles is a vibrant city for those working with young children, filled with diversity and a wide array of opportunities. Prestigious programs like LAUP focus on ensuring all children have access to quality early childhood education.
    Find Preschool Teacher jobs in Los Angeles, CA

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

Preschool teachers can find some of the highest salaries at companies like Resort Travel & Xchange, where the average pay reaches over $122,000. Other well-paying organizations include ICF and CAPS Collaborative, offering salaries around $84,000 and $81,500 respectively. If you're seeking better financial prospects in preschool education, consideration of these companies can be a step in the right direction.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Preschool Teacher jobs, highlighting Resort Travel & Xchange with the highest at $122,314 and Clark County School District with the lowest at $64,455.
  1. Resort Travel & Xchange
    Average Salary: $122,314
    As a Preschool Teacher at Resort Travel & Xchange, you will work in a vibrant environment dedicated to early childhood education. The company operates primarily in resort areas, focusing on enriching experiences for children while their families enjoy vacation time.


  2. ICF
    Average Salary: $84,978
    ICF provides strong support for Preschool Teachers, emphasizing educational research and development. With locations across the United States, this company empowers educators to create impactful learning experiences.


  3. CAPS Collaborative
    Average Salary: $81,506
    CAPS Collaborative focuses on diverse educational needs and supports Preschool Teachers in developing individualized learning plans. The organization serves various locations, creating inclusive classrooms for young learners.


  4. Wu Yee Children's Services
    Average Salary: $77,218
    Wu Yee Children's Services is committed to high-quality early childhood programs. Preschool Teachers here work in the San Francisco area, helping children gain foundational skills in a nurturing environment.


  5. United Staffing Solutions
    Average Salary: $76,250
    United Staffing Solutions matches dedicated Preschool Teachers with schools and organizations that need them. This company operates in numerous states and offers opportunities to work in various educational settings.


  6. Mission Neighborhood Centers
    Average Salary: $75,508
    Mission Neighborhood Centers supports community-based education for young children. Preschool Teachers here work primarily in the Mission District of San Francisco, enriching the lives of children and families.


  7. Elwyn
    Average Salary: $74,472
    Elwyn provides innovative educational programs for children with diverse needs. Preschool Teachers at Elwyn work in several states, focused on fostering growth in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.


  8. Hawaii State Department of Education
    Average Salary: $66,594
    With its beautiful backdrop, the Hawaii State Department of Education offers Preschool Teachers the opportunity to work in sunny schools across the islands, nurturing children’s development in unique cultural settings.


  9. Prince William County Public Schools
    Average Salary: $65,242
    Prince William County Public Schools values early childhood education and provides resources for Preschool Teachers to excel. This district operates in Virginia, ensuring all children have access to quality learning experiences.


  10. Clark County School District
    Average Salary: $64,455
    The Clark County School District prioritizes early learning and offers great support for Preschool Teachers. Located in Nevada, the district serves a large population, making a significant impact on valuable developmental stages.

How to earn more as a Preschool Teacher?

To increase your earnings as a preschool teacher, consider these important factors:
  • Gain More Experience: More years in the field often lead to higher salaries. Seek opportunities for hands-on experience in different settings.
  • Pursue Advanced Education: Earning a higher degree or specialized certifications can enhance your skills and make you more attractive to employers.
  • Work in Higher-Paying Areas: Some regions or school districts pay more for preschool teachers. Research areas with competitive salaries and consider relocating.
  • Take on Leadership Roles: Position yourself as a leader within your school. Roles like lead teacher or program director often come with increased pay.
  • Specialize in Niche Areas: Focusing on areas such as special education or early childhood development can make you stand out and command a higher salary.

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Currently 9,532 Preschool Teacher job openings, nationwide!

How's the job market for a Preschool Teacher in the US?

Learn what a Preschool Teacher does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Preschool Teacher today.
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Preschool Teacher
9,532 Job Openings