School Principal vs Teacher salary
In United States, a school principal earns about 82% more than a teacher — $123,000 vs $67,400 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
Pays more
Education
School Principal$123,000/yr
- Monthly
- $10,300
- Hourly
- $59
- Range
- $84,300–$170,400
- 10-yr outlook
- +1%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | School Principal | Teacher |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $84,300 | $49,200 |
| 25th | $103,600 | $58,300 |
| Median | $123,000 | $67,400 |
| 75th | $146,700 | $78,500 |
| Senior (90th) | $170,400 | $89,600 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Education comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a school principal or teacher earn more in United States?
- A school principal earns more, at about $123,000 per year vs $67,400 for a teacher — roughly 82% ($55,600) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A school principal typically earns $84,300–$170,400, while a teacher earns $49,200–$89,600 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a school principal averages about $10,300 and a teacher about $5,600.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a school principal earns about $84,300 while a teacher earns about $49,200 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a school principal earns about $170,400 while a teacher earns about $89,600 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.