Elementary School Teacher salary in Chicago, IL
Median pay, Chicago metro
$78,390/year
Middle half earns $60,630 – $102,430
Half of elementary school teachers in the Chicago metro area earn more than $78,390 a year and half earn less. That's 23% higher than the national median of $63,970, and ranks #13 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $48,960 |
| 25th | $60,630 |
| Median (50th) | $78,390 |
| 75th | $102,430 |
| 90th (top earners) | $105,250 |
Is your offer fair?
For a elementary school teacher job in the Chicago metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $60,630. Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $60,630 to $102,430. The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $102,430. Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Teacher pay is usually set by a district salary schedule based on years of experience and degree level, so ask for the schedule.
- Pay here is yearly. BLS doesn't publish hourly figures for teachers because the school year isn't a standard full-time schedule.
- Extra duties like coaching or after-school programs often come with stipends.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, Chicago metro. Occupation: Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education (SOC 25-2021). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.