Elementary School Teacher salary in Philadelphia, PA
Median pay, Philadelphia metro
$78,570/year
Middle half earns $61,300 – $97,410
Half of elementary school teachers in the Philadelphia metro area earn more than $78,570 a year and half earn less. That's 23% higher than the national median of $63,970, and ranks #12 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $58,650 |
| 25th | $61,300 |
| Median (50th) | $78,570 |
| 75th | $97,410 |
| 90th (top earners) | $100,940 |
Is your offer fair?
For a elementary school teacher job in the Philadelphia metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $61,300. Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $61,300 to $97,410. The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $97,410. 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, Philadelphia 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.