Creative & Education Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Teacher (K-12) Salary in Massachusetts

The median teacher (k-12) salary in Massachusetts is $83,282 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $61,690.

Median Salary
$83,282
vs National
+$21,592
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for teacher (k-12)s seeking high pay. At $83,282 per year, teacher (k-12)s in Massachusetts earn $21,592 more than the national median of $61,690.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $83,282 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $61,690.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $55,890, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $136,350 — a $80,460 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $98,704.

Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for teacher (k-12)s across the country.

Teacher (K-12) Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $56,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,200 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$56,700
+$14,700 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$83,700
+$21,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$124,200
+$32,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $55,890
25th Percentile $65,880
Median (50th) $83,282
75th Percentile $106,920
90th Percentile $136,350

Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Teacher (K-12) in Massachusetts

Education

Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Lesson PlanningClassroom ManagementAssessmentDifferentiated InstructionCommunicationEducational Technology

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Teacher (K-12)s who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $40,918 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Teacher (K-12) Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Teacher (K-12) make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median teacher (k-12) salary in Massachusetts is $83,282 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $61,690. Salaries range from $55,890 (10th percentile) to $136,350 (90th percentile).
How much does a Teacher (K-12) make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $83,282, a teacher (k-12) in Massachusetts earns approximately $40 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for teacher (k-12)s? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level teacher (k-12)s earn $56,700, while senior professionals earn $124,200.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for teacher (k-12) salary? ▼
The highest paying state for teacher (k-12)s is Hawaii at $104,873. Massachusetts's median of $83,282 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($104,873) and California ($85,132).
What is the entry-level teacher (k-12) salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level teacher (k-12) in Massachusetts earns approximately $56,700 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $83,700. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $124,200.
What city in Massachusetts pays teacher (k-12)s the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for teacher (k-12)s, with a median salary of $98,704. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.