Elementary School Teacher salary in Washington, DC
Median pay, Washington DC metro
$79,470/year
Middle half earns $64,140 – $102,750
Half of elementary school teachers in the Washington DC metro area earn more than $79,470 a year and half earn less. That's 24% higher than the national median of $63,970, and ranks #11 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $60,790 |
| 25th | $64,140 |
| Median (50th) | $79,470 |
| 75th | $102,750 |
| 90th (top earners) | $122,580 |
Is your offer fair?
For a elementary school teacher job in the Washington DC metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $64,140. Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $64,140 to $102,750. The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $102,750. 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, Washington DC 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.