Do Pennsylvania teachers get paid during the summer?

Most Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?

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 Pennsylvania.

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

Yes. Almost every Pennsylvania 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.

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2026 Salary Guide

Teacher Salaries in Pennsylvania

Q: What is the average teacher salary in Pennsylvania?

The average public-school teacher salary in Pennsylvania is approximately $72,280 per year (source: Pennsylvania Department of Education / NEA 2023–24). Pay varies by district, years of experience, and degree level — most districts publish a salary schedule.

Q: How does Pennsylvania teacher pay compare to the national average?

Pennsylvania teachers earn about 6% above 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.

Pennsylvania teachers earn an average of $72,280 per year — 6% above the national average.

$72,280State Average

$44,000Entry-Level (BS)

#5National Rank

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Pennsylvania Teacher Salary Overview

$44,000Entry-Level Salary (BS+0)Starting pay for new teachers with a bachelor's degree

$72,280Average Teacher SalaryState average across all experience levels and districts

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

▲ Pennsylvania teachers earn 6% more than the national average (+$3,811)

How Pennsylvania Teacher Salaries Work

Pennsylvania salaries are among the highest in the nation, negotiated locally. The Lower Merion, Tredyffrin-Easttown, and other Main Line Philadelphia suburban districts are among the highest-paying in the country. Pittsburgh and Philadelphia districts also offer competitive salaries.

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:

Pennsylvania has no state minimum teacher salary, but local bargaining typically results in strong starting pay. PSERS (Public School Employees' Retirement System) provides significant pension benefits.

Top Hiring Districts in Pennsylvania

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.

Philadelphia City SD141 open positions Downingtown Area SD27 open positions Allentown City SD26 open positions Haverford Township SD21 open positions Montgomery Area SD19 open positions Octorara Area SD16 open positions Wilson Area SD15 open positions Southeast Delco SD14 open positions Reading SD13 open positions Bristol Township SD13 open positions

629 total open positions across Pennsylvania school districts.

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Pennsylvania ranks #5 nationally by raw salary. How does it rank after adjusting for cost of living?

Compare All States →

Ready to Teach in Pennsylvania?

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

Pennsylvania Certification Guide →

Ready to apply?

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

View Pennsylvania jobs → Browse by subject

Data sources: Pennsylvania Department of 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 Pennsylvania Department of Education.