ESL Teacher Salary in South Carolina
The median esl teacher salary in South Carolina is $49,840 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $56,000.
ESL Teacher Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for esl teacher compensation. ESL Teacher salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $49,840 per year, esl teachers in South Carolina earn $6,160 less than the national median of $56,000.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $49,840 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $56,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: esl teachers at the 10th percentile earn $32,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $78,320 — a $46,280 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, where the median reaches $58,800.
Nationally, esl teacher employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for esl teachers across the country.
ESL Teacher Salary in South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level esl teacher earns around $33,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,760 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $49,840? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,160 |
| Median (50th) | $49,840 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $78,320 |
ESL Teacher Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for esl teachers in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a ESL Teacher in South Carolina
Education
Most esl teacher positions require a bachelor's degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, esl teacher employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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