đź“Š Kindergarten Teacher Salaries in the U.S.
According to ZipRecruiter (June 2025), the national average is $45,082 per year (~$21.67/hour). Salaries typically range between $34,500 (25th percentile) and $53,500 (75th percentile). Top earners may reach up to $61,000 annually. Another source, Jobted, reports an average of $43,390/year, with starting salaries around $32,480 and top earnings near $58,770.
🏙️ State-by-State Snapshot (ZipRecruiter)
Here are some of the highest-paying states:
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| State | Avg. Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $51,060 | $24.55 |
| District of Columbia | $50,944 | $24.49 |
| New York | $49,321 | $23.71 |
| Massachusetts | $49,235 | $23.67 |
| Alaska | $48,551 | $23.34 |
| Vermont | $47,934 | $23.05 |
| North Dakota | $47,700 | $22.93 |
| Oregon | $47,665 | $22.92 |
| Colorado | $47,405 | $22.79 |
| Hawaii | $46,838 | $22.52 |
| Nevada | $45,907 | $22.07 |
Though national averages for kindergarten teachers ($45k) are slightly below K–12 teacher averages ($74k), certain states like California ($101k) and New York ($95k) pay significantly more.
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âś… Common FAQs from Kindergarten Teachers
1. What’s the starting salary?
Entry-level roles: $32,000–$38,000, depending on region .
2. How much can I earn with experience?
Mid-career (4–9 yrs): approx. $42,600/year
Senior (10+ yrs): around $49,720/year, with upper ranges approaching $73k .
3. Why do salaries vary state-to-state?
Differences stem from cost of living, state budgets, and district pay scales. E.g., California/DC offer much higher wages than Mississippi or South Dakota .
4. Do I need a bachelor’s degree to teach kindergarten?
Yes. All public-school kindergarten teachers must hold at least a bachelor’s in Early Childhood or Elementary EducationÂ
5. What certifications are common?
Typically, certification for Early Childhood (K–3) or Elementary Education (K–6), depending on state
