Missouri Teacher Salaries

When it comes to wages, teachers in Missouri come out at the head of the class when compared to many other professions. Missouri teacher salaries averaged $45,317 in 2009-10, according to the National Education Association—over 13 percent higher than the average annual salary in Missouri across all industries. ⁽¹⁾

In addition, Missouri teaching salaries usually come with a generous benefits package. If you're employed at a public school in Springfield, Missouri, for example, you can expect medical, dental and life insurance options; fitness center membership and other local business discounts; a retirement plan; and numerous other perks. ⁽²⁾ On top of all that, the cost of living in Missouri is the 8th lowest in the United States. ⁽³⁾

So what's the catch? There really isn't one. But you should be aware that Missouri teacher salaries can vary dramatically depending on your degree level, what grade you teach and how much experience you have in the classroom. If you're just starting out, don't expect to earn as much as an experienced teacher. For example, an elementary school teacher at the entry level earns $31,070 compared to a more experienced elementary school teacher, who may earn $50,040 or more. ⁽³⁾

In Missouri, teacher salaries also show a great deal of geographic variation—another factor to be aware of when you're researching education jobs. Here are secondary school teacher earnings for five of the largest metropolitan areas in the state: ⁽⁴⁾

• Columbia: $39,260
• Kansas City: $44,600
• Saint Joseph: $37,610
• Saint Louis: $50,330
• Springfield: $42,100

If education is your calling and you're planning to teach in Missouri, you'll want to research more than just teacher salaries. Start here at Teacher World. Find out what it takes to become a teacher in Missouri at any one of our many accredited education schools.

Sources:
(1) Missouri Economic Research and Information Center
(2) Springfield Public Schools
(3) Missouri Economic Research and Information Center
(4) U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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