Teacher (K-12) Salary in Missouri
The median teacher (k-12) salary in Missouri is $54,287 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $61,690.
Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. Teacher (K-12) salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,287 per year, teacher (k-12)s in Missouri earn $7,403 less than the national median of $61,690.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $54,287 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,690 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $36,432, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $88,880 — a $52,448 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $56,755.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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Earning $54,287? 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 Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,432 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,944 |
| Median (50th) | $54,287 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,696 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,880 |
Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Teacher (K-12) in Missouri
Education
Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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