How does Missouri teacher pay compare to the national average?

Missouri teachers earn about 22% below the national average of $68,469 (National Education Association (NEA) Rankings and Estimates 2023–24). Cost of living in your specific city plays a big role in how that translates to take-home value.

Do Missouri teachers get paid during the summer?

Most Missouri districts pay teachers on a 12-month schedule even though instructional time is ~10 months — the annual salary is spread evenly across the year. Some districts offer a 10-month payment option; check your district's HR for specifics.

What's the highest-paying school district in Missouri?

Pay scales vary district-to-district. Districts in higher cost-of-living areas typically offer higher base salaries. The "Top Hiring Districts" list on this page shows districts currently hiring across Missouri.

Does experience or a master's degree increase teacher pay in Missouri?

Yes. Almost every Missouri district uses a step-and-lane salary schedule: "steps" reward years of teaching experience and "lanes" reward degree level (BA, BA+15, MA, MA+30, etc.). Earning a master's typically adds $3,000–$8,000 annually depending on the district.

← Home

2026 Salary Guide

Teacher Salaries in Missouri

Missouri teachers earn an average of $53,490 per year — 22% below the national average.

$53,490State Average

$32,000Entry-Level (BS)

#44National Rank

Browse Missouri Teaching Jobs All Missouri Job Categories

Missouri Teacher Salary Overview

$32,000Entry-Level Salary (BS+0)Starting pay for new teachers with a bachelor's degree

$53,490Average Teacher SalaryState average across all experience levels and districts

$68,469National AverageNational Education Association (NEA) Rankings and Estimates 2023–24

▼ Missouri teachers earn 22% less than the national average (-$14,979)

How Missouri Teacher Salaries Work

Missouri has a relatively low minimum teacher salary. The state legislature passed a $38,000 minimum in 2024 (phased in). Kansas City and St. Louis area districts offer higher pay, but rural districts often pay near the minimum.

Key Factors That Affect Your Salary

Years of Experience (Steps): Salaries increase with each additional year of teaching service.
Education Level (Lanes): A master's degree, specialist degree, or doctorate earns a higher salary lane.
District: Each district sets its own salary schedule above the state minimum. Urban and suburban districts near major metro areas typically pay more.
Subject Area: Some districts offer bonuses or supplements for high-demand areas like special education, STEM, and bilingual education.

Additional context:

Missouri has experienced significant teacher workforce challenges. The minimum salary increase is intended to improve recruitment and retention in shortage areas.

Top Hiring Districts in Missouri

These districts currently have the most open teaching positions on EduJobsBoard. Districts with more openings are often the most actively growing or have the most competitive pay.

St. Louis City226 open positions Community R-VI119 open positions Center 5879 open positions Fox C-659 open positions Ferguson-Florissant R-II45 open positions Hazelwood38 open positions Cape Girardeau 6328 open positions Lindbergh Schools27 open positions Poplar Bluff R-I25 open positions Mehlville R-IX25 open positions

1,676 total open positions across Missouri school districts.

Browse All Missouri Teaching Jobs

See the full picture

Missouri ranks #44 nationally by raw salary. How does it rank after adjusting for cost of living?

Compare All States →

Ready to Teach in Missouri?

Before you start earning those salaries, you'll need a valid Missouri teaching certificate. Learn about degree requirements, required exams, and the certification timeline.

Missouri Certification Guide →

Ready to apply?

Browse current teaching positions in Missouri — apply directly on district sites.

View Missouri jobs → Browse by subject

Data sources: Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education / NEA 2023–24. Salary figures represent approximate state averages and minimums; actual pay varies by district, experience, and education level. For the most current salary schedules, consult your district's human resources department or the Missouri Department of Education.

Frequently asked questions about teacher salary in Missouri

What is the average teacher salary in Missouri?: The average public-school teacher salary in Missouri is approximately $53,490 per year (source: Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education / NEA 2023–24). Pay varies by district, years of experience, and degree level — most districts publish a salary schedule.
How does Missouri teacher pay compare to the national average?: Missouri teachers earn about 22% below the national average of $68,469 (National Education Association (NEA) Rankings and Estimates 2023–24). Cost of living in your specific city plays a big role in how that translates to take-home value.
Do Missouri teachers get paid during the summer?: Most Missouri districts pay teachers on a 12-month schedule even though instructional time is ~10 months — the annual salary is spread evenly across the year. Some districts offer a 10-month payment option; check your district's HR for specifics.
What's the highest-paying school district in Missouri?: Pay scales vary district-to-district. Districts in higher cost-of-living areas typically offer higher base salaries. The "Top Hiring Districts" list on this page shows districts currently hiring across Missouri.
Does experience or a master's degree increase teacher pay in Missouri?: Yes. Almost every Missouri district uses a step-and-lane salary schedule: "steps" reward years of teaching experience and "lanes" reward degree level (BA, BA+15, MA, MA+30, etc.). Earning a master's typically adds $3,000–$8,000 annually depending on the district.