Teachers looking at a board.
It Pays to Teach
It's true: teaching is a career that requires a real commitment. It is also a career that comes with real rewards. Learn about the competitive starting salaries here in Dallas-Fort Worth.
It's true: teaching is a career that requires a real commitment. It is also a career that comes with real rewards. Learn about the competitive starting salaries here in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Teaching Salaries Start High

Bar chart of median starting salaries in Dallas region - general teacher, STEM teacher, bilingual teacher

You probably have heard rumors about teacher salaries—but did you know that most people underestimate how much teachers take home?

Starting salaries for teachers in Dallas-Fort Worth districts might be higher than you expect. Among our 15 partner school districts all across Dallas-Fort Worth, the median starting salary for teachers is over $52,000.

And, there’s more. Many districts offer annual stipends of up to several thousand dollars for teaching science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) or in a bilingual classroom. It's no wonder teachers like Miranda Korschun are living their best lives as teachers.

Bar chart of median starting salaries in Dallas region - general teacher, STEM teacher, bilingual teacher
Bar chart: Median teacher salary compared to other jobs in Dallas region

Starting Salaries For Teachers Are Competitive Compared to Other Jobs

Bar chart: Median teacher salary compared to other jobs in Dallas region

In Dallas-Fort Worth, teaching has a competitive starting salary compared with many other fields that require a bachelors degree.

So the next time your parents tell you that you should be an accountant... you can show them this.

 

Great Growth Potential for High-Performing Teachers.

Line chart: Years 1 to 8 salary levels of high performing teachers in one Dallas area district

You don’t have to make less to make an impact in education. In one Dallas-area school district, teachers can earn as much as $90,000.

Additionally, many teachers choose to pursue school or district leadership roles during their careers, where they will easily earn into the six figures. Education, whether in the classroom or another role, has great potential for impact and income.

Find out more about what strategic compensation programs are available to teachers in DFW.

Line chart: Years 1 to 8 salary levels of high performing teachers in one Dallas area district

Generous Benefits

The benefits you get on top of salary are part of your total compensation, and teachers tend to get a better benefit package than most other jobs. In particular, teachers get compensated with more generous retirement plans and vacation time, plus the standard medical, dental, and vision insurance you would expect as a professional. And, at most schools, you’ll have nearly three months to travel, earn extra income, pursue hobbies, or develop yourself. Doesn’t that sound like a deal?

  • Loan Repayment

    • Deciding to teach can definitely feel scary. It’s an important question to answer: how are you going to fund it?


      However, stepping into a classroom can mean stepping out of debt. If you have a student loan, you may be eligible for relief if you’re willing to commit to teaching for several years. If this interests you, learn more here.

  • Funding Opportunities

    • Looking for scholarships? Want to pursue a development experience? You will find thousands of grants, scholarships, and fellowships for teachers.


      Grants, scholarships, and fellowships for teachers number in the thousands. Consult the expansive scholarships and aid database to learn more about specific opportunities.

  • Housing Assistance

    • Given the relatively low cost of living and competitive teaching salaries in Dallas-Fort Worth, finding great housing isn’t usually an issue. But there are additional benefits to help teachers find a home that is just right for relaxing and recharging!

       

      The Homes for Texas Heroes Home Loan program is a loan assistance program built specifically for teachers buying a home in Texas. With it, you could assistance with your down payment up to 3%-5% of the loan amount.


      Additionally, the government has created the Good Neighbor Next Door is a program for teachers. In order to contribute to community revitalization, the U.S. Department of Housing and Development offers a discount of 50% from the list price of the home to teachers.

  • Shopping Deals

    • The world’s best brands offer discounts to teachers. Think J. Crew, Madewell, Apple Store, and Marriott Hotels.


      That means classroom materials are cheaper. Plane tickets take your further. Cell phone bills and gym memberships cost less.Your wardrobe has more options. And new technology is so much closer. Discounts vary by district and state, but this list is a good starting place to find some teacher’s perks.

Confident teacher standing by tree
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