Substitute Teacher Salaries

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Substitute Teacher make?

The average salary for a Substitute Teacher is $46,250 per year in the US.

Substitute teachers play a vital role in maintaining the flow of education when regular teachers are absent. Their salaries vary widely, influenced by factors like location, experience, and the school district. On average, substitute teachers earn about $46,250 per year.


Salaries can start around $23,050 for those new to the field or working part-time. As they gain experience, many move up to an annual salary of around $29,136 or more. Experienced substitutes can earn $35,223 or even reach $41,309 as they enhance their skills and take on more responsibilities.


For those at the top of their game, salaries can reach $65,655 or even $90,000 depending on the district and their level of experience. This range shows that with dedication and experience, substitute teachers can achieve competitive salaries while contributing positively to students' education.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Substitute Teacher?

San Francisco, CA tops the list for Substitute Teacher salaries with an impressive average of $76,137. Honolulu, HI and Seattle, WA follow closely, offering average salaries of $73,800 and $72,858 respectively. These cities present great opportunities for those seeking higher compensation in the education sector.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $76,137 and Beaumont, TX with the lowest at $61,152.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $76,137
    Working in San Francisco as a substitute in schools offers opportunities to engage with diverse student populations. The city's educational landscape includes prestigious institutions that value innovative teaching methods.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $73,800
    In Honolulu, you will experience a unique cultural environment while teaching students from various backgrounds. The beautiful surroundings and vibrant community make every day a rewarding adventure.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Honolulu, HI


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $72,858
    Seattle's educational system is known for its focus on creative teaching and learning. By substituting here, you contribute to a strong community that places emphasis on technology and innovative educational practices.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $71,748
    Bakersfield offers a supportive community atmosphere where educators can make a significant impact. The schools are dedicated to fostering a positive learning environment for students of all ages.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $64,753
    As a substitute in Los Angeles, you will work in a city buzzing with opportunities in education. The rich diversity and numerous robust school districts provide a dynamic atmosphere for teaching.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Fargo, ND
    Average Salary: $62,417
    Fargo boasts a friendly community with a focus on academic achievement. As a substitute teacher here, you will play an essential role in helping students thrive in a warm and inviting environment.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Fargo, ND


  7. Pueblo, CO
    Average Salary: $61,325
    In Pueblo, educators enjoy a close-knit community and supportive staff. Working as a substitute here allows you to inspire students while being part of a team dedicated to educational success.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Pueblo, CO


  8. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $61,309
    San Jose is known for its focus on technology and innovation in education. Substituting in this vibrant city means engaging with students eager to learn in a progressive environment.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in San Jose, CA


  9. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $61,287
    New Haven offers a rich educational history and dynamic school environment. Working as a substitute here provides the chance to impact students' lives positively in a city known for its academic excellence.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in New Haven, CT


  10. Beaumont, TX
    Average Salary: $61,152
    In Beaumont, you will find a welcoming community with passionate educators. Schools here are committed to supporting students, and as a substitute, you will play a key role in their journey.
    Find Substitute Teacher jobs in Beaumont, TX

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

For substitute teachers seeking high-paying positions, several companies stand out. Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. offers an impressive average salary of $131,000, followed closely by Illinois School District U-46 at $120,353. Other noteworthy options include Southeast Delco School District and Edmonds School District, with average salaries of $110,240 and $91,601, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Substitute Teacher jobs, highlighting Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. with the highest at $131,000 and Two Rivers Public Charter School with the lowest at $82,574.
  1. Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc.
    Average Salary: $131,000
    Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Substitute Teachers, with an impressive average salary of $131,000. The company operates in various locations across the United States, focusing on providing quality educational services.


  2. Illinois School District U-46
    Average Salary: $120,353
    Illinois School District U-46 values its educators, including Substitute Teachers, who earn an average salary of $120,353. This district primarily serves the Elgin area and is committed to fostering a supportive educational environment.


  3. Southeast Delco School District
    Average Salary: $110,240
    Southeast Delco School District, located in Pennsylvania, pays its Substitute Teachers an average salary of $110,240. The district is known for its dedication to student success and providing a positive teaching atmosphere.


  4. Edmonds School District
    Average Salary: $91,601
    Edmonds School District in Washington State offers a solid average salary of $91,601 for Substitute Teachers. The district values quality education and ensures a supportive environment for its staff.


  5. PediaStaff
    Average Salary: $91,115
    PediaStaff focuses on providing skilled educators and therapists within various school settings. Substitute Teachers can expect an average salary of $91,115, with opportunities in different locations across the country.


  6. Seattle Public Schools
    Average Salary: $89,448
    Seattle Public Schools offers competitive salaries for Substitute Teachers, averaging $89,448. The district serves a diverse student population and provides a dynamic teaching environment in Washington.


  7. Pediatric Developmental Services
    Average Salary: $89,158
    Pediatric Developmental Services provides Substitute Teachers with comprehensive support and an average salary of $89,158. The positions often focus on special education and developmental support, spanning various locations.


  8. Bentley School
    Average Salary: $83,521
    Bentley School in California is known for its rigorous academic programs and pays Substitute Teachers an average salary of $83,521. The school is committed to creating an enriching environment for both teachers and students.


  9. Match Education
    Average Salary: $83,441
    Match Education focuses on high-impact teacher training and placements, offering an average salary of $83,441 for Substitute Teachers. The organization primarily operates in urban areas, providing support to a diverse student body.


  10. Two Rivers Public Charter School
    Average Salary: $82,574
    Two Rivers Public Charter School in Washington, D.C. offers an average salary of $82,574 for its Substitute Teachers. Known for its innovative educational approaches, the school encourages a collaborative atmosphere among its educators.

How to earn more as a Substitute Teacher?

As a substitute teacher, you have opportunities to not only make a positive impact on students but also to earn more. Here are five factors to consider for increasing your income:

  1. Specialize in subjects: Focus on teaching high-demand subjects like math, science, or special education. Schools often pay higher rates for substitutes in these areas.
  2. Take on long-term assignments: Accept positions that last several weeks or months. Long-term substitutes often earn higher daily rates compared to one-day jobs.
  3. Expand your certifications: Obtain additional teaching certifications, such as for special education or ESL (English as a Second Language). Extra qualifications make you more attractive to schools.
  4. Network with local schools: Build strong relationships with school administrators and teachers. They may call you first for substitute assignments, increasing your opportunities.
  5. Utilize online platforms: Sign up on platforms that connect substitutes with schools. Some sites offer incentives or higher pay rates for jobs secured through them.

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Currently 4,051 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
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Substitute Teacher
4,051 Job Openings