Elementary School Teacher salary in San Diego, CA
Median pay, San Diego metro
$97,000/year
Middle half earns $75,030 – $110,420
Half of elementary school teachers in the San Diego metro area earn more than $97,000 a year and half earn less. That's 52% higher than the national median of $63,970, and ranks #7 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $62,140 |
| 25th | $75,030 |
| Median (50th) | $97,000 |
| 75th | $110,420 |
| 90th (top earners) | $123,450 |
Is your offer fair?
For a elementary school teacher job in the San Diego metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $75,030. Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $75,030 to $110,420. The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $110,420. 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, San Diego 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.