School Principal vs Teacher salary
In South Africa, a school principal earns about 78% more than a teacher — $38,403 vs $21,587 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is ZAR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Pays more
Education
School Principal$38,403/yr
- Monthly
- $3,198
- Hourly
- $18
- Range
- $26,308–$53,190
- 10-yr outlook
- +1%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | School Principal | Teacher |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $26,308 | $15,759 |
| 25th | $32,355 | $18,670 |
| Median | $38,403 | $21,587 |
| 75th | $45,797 | $25,146 |
| Senior (90th) | $53,190 | $28,711 |
National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Education comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a school principal or teacher earn more in South Africa?
- A school principal earns more, at about R 628 000 per year vs R 353 000 for a teacher — roughly 78% (R 275 000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
- A school principal typically earns R 430 200–R 869 800, while a teacher earns R 257 700–R 469 500 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a school principal averages about R 52 300 and a teacher about R 29 400.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a school principal earns about R 430 200 while a teacher earns about R 257 700 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a school principal earns about R 869 800 while a teacher earns about R 469 500 per year.
- Are school principal and teacher similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Education category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.