Teachers Aide Salary in America 2025
The landscape of teachers aide salary in the United States continues to evolve as educational institutions navigate budget constraints, staffing demands, and changing educational needs in 2025. Working as essential support staff in classrooms across the nation, teacher aides play a critical role in helping educators manage diverse student populations, providing individualized attention to students who need extra help, and ensuring smooth classroom operations. The compensation for these vital education professionals varies significantly based on geographic location, industry sector, experience level, and the type of educational institution where they work. Current data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals comprehensive insights into earnings patterns, employment trends, and future projections for this occupation.
Understanding the salary dynamics for teachers aide positions in the US 2025 requires examining multiple factors that influence compensation levels nationwide. From metropolitan areas offering premium wages to rural districts with limited budgets, the pay scale reflects the economic realities of different regions. The profession encompasses various specialized roles, including those working with special education students, preschool assistants, and aides in elementary through secondary school settings. As schools continue to recognize the importance of smaller class sizes and personalized learning approaches, the demand for qualified teacher aides remains steady, though employment projections indicate modest changes ahead. This comprehensive analysis presents verified statistics from official government sources to provide a clear picture of what teachers aides can expect to earn in 2025 across different states, industries, and experience levels.
Key Facts About Teachers Aide Salary in the US 2025
| Fact Category | Statistical Data | Source Year |
|---|---|---|
| Median Annual Wage for Teachers Aides | $35,240 | May 2024 |
| Mean Annual Wage for Teachers Aides | $35,960 | May 2024 |
| Total Number of Teachers Aide Jobs | 1,375,300 positions | 2024 |
| Lowest 10% Annual Earnings | $23,710 or less | May 2024 |
| Highest 10% Annual Earnings | $48,140 or more | May 2024 |
| 10th Percentile Hourly Wage | $11.40 per hour | May 2024 |
| 25th Percentile Annual Wage | $28,360 | May 2024 |
| 75th Percentile Annual Wage | $42,950 | May 2024 |
| 90th Percentile Hourly Wage | $23.14 per hour | May 2024 |
| Employment Growth Projection 2024-2034 | -1% decline | 2024-2034 |
| Annual Job Openings Projected | 170,400 openings per year | 2024-2034 |
| Median Hourly Wage | $16.94 per hour | May 2024 |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024 and Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024
Understanding Teachers Aide Compensation Data in 2025
The median annual wage of $35,240 for teachers aides in the United States represents the middle point where half of all workers in this occupation earn more and half earn less, providing a realistic benchmark for professionals entering or working in this field. This figure reflects a comprehensive survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics across all industry sectors, metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas, and every state including the District of Columbia. The mean annual wage of $35,960 sits slightly higher than the median, indicating that higher earners pull the average upward, though the difference between these measures remains relatively small, suggesting fairly consistent pay patterns across the profession.
The wage distribution reveals significant earning potential variation, with the lowest 10 percent earning $23,710 annually while the highest 10 percent command salaries exceeding $48,140. This substantial range reflects differences in geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and employer type. The hourly wage structure shows that teachers aides typically earn $16.94 per hour at the median level, with entry-level positions starting around $11.40 per hour for the 10th percentile and experienced professionals reaching $23.14 per hour at the 90th percentile. The employment landscape encompasses 1,375,300 positions nationwide, making this one of the largest support occupations in the education sector. Despite a projected 1 percent employment decline from 2024 to 2034, the field will still generate approximately 170,400 job openings annually, primarily due to the need to replace workers who retire or transition to other occupations, ensuring continued opportunities for those pursuing careers as teachers aides.
Teachers Aide Salary by Industry in the US 2025
| Industry Sector | Employment | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary and Secondary Schools | 1,232,940 | $36,160 | $17.38 |
| Individual and Family Services | 29,800 | $38,020 | $18.28 |
| Other Schools and Instruction | 23,460 | $37,490 | $18.03 |
| Child Day Care Services | 21,700 | $31,070 | $14.94 |
| Junior Colleges | 15,670 | $40,840 | $19.63 |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
The industry breakdown reveals that elementary and secondary schools dominate employment for teachers aides, accounting for 1,232,940 positions or approximately 90 percent of all jobs in this occupation nationwide. These traditional K-12 educational settings offer a mean annual wage of $36,160, which translates to $17.38 per hour, representing competitive compensation for the sector. The concentration of positions in elementary and secondary schools reflects the fundamental role teacher aides play in supporting classroom instruction, assisting with special education services, and providing individualized attention to students across grade levels. Schools rely heavily on these professionals to maintain appropriate student-to-staff ratios, particularly in classrooms with diverse learning needs.
Junior colleges emerge as the highest-paying industry sector for teachers aides, offering a mean annual wage of $40,840 and $19.63 per hour, despite employing only 15,670 workers in this category. This premium compensation reflects the specialized skills and maturity often required when working with older students in community college settings. Individual and family services organizations employ 29,800 teachers aides at a mean wage of $38,020 annually, while other schools and instruction facilities, which include specialized educational programs, tutoring centers, and alternative schools, employ 23,460 workers earning an average of $37,490 per year. The child day care services sector shows the lowest compensation at $31,070 annually for 21,700 employees, reflecting the early childhood education segment where pay scales typically run lower than traditional school settings. These industry variations demonstrate how the type of educational environment significantly influences earning potential for teachers aides across the United States in 2025.
Teachers Aide Salary by State in the US 2025
| State | Employment | Mean Annual Wage | Annual Median Wage | Mean Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 142,630 | $43,010 | $40,620 | $20.68 |
| New York | 105,560 | $38,520 | $35,950 | $18.52 |
| Texas | 134,100 | $31,340 | $29,480 | $15.07 |
| Florida | 69,150 | $32,350 | $30,780 | $15.55 |
| Pennsylvania | 52,770 | $34,920 | $33,100 | $16.79 |
| Illinois | 44,890 | $36,690 | $34,570 | $17.64 |
| Ohio | 41,880 | $33,810 | $32,300 | $16.25 |
| New Jersey | 38,510 | $39,210 | $36,960 | $18.85 |
| North Carolina | 38,370 | $32,090 | $30,690 | $15.43 |
| Georgia | 36,860 | $34,020 | $32,490 | $16.36 |
| Massachusetts | 33,580 | $40,300 | $38,130 | $19.38 |
| Virginia | 31,390 | $35,970 | $34,410 | $17.29 |
| Washington | 30,130 | $43,640 | $42,440 | $20.98 |
| Michigan | 29,820 | $34,480 | $32,900 | $16.58 |
| Arizona | 24,530 | $34,360 | $32,930 | $16.52 |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
Geographic location proves to be one of the most significant determinants of teachers aide salary in 2025, with stark differences between states reflecting local cost of living, education funding levels, and regional economic conditions. Washington state leads the nation with the highest mean annual wage of $43,640 and a median wage of $42,440, offering teachers aides $20.98 per hour on average, making it the most lucrative state for this profession. California follows closely with $43,010 mean annual compensation and employs the largest workforce of 142,630 teachers aides, demonstrating both high pay and substantial job availability. The Golden State’s hourly mean wage of $20.68 reflects the premium compensation needed to attract and retain education support staff in one of the nation’s highest cost-of-living regions.
Texas presents a contrasting picture, employing the second-largest workforce of 134,100 teachers aides but offering significantly lower compensation with a mean annual wage of $31,340 and median earnings of $29,480, translating to just $15.07 per hour. This substantial pay gap between Texas and top-paying states like Washington and California exceeds $12,000 annually, highlighting regional economic disparities in education funding and labor markets. Florida shows similar patterns with 69,150 employed teachers aides earning a mean annual salary of $32,350, while northeastern states like New York with 105,560 positions and Massachusetts with 33,580 positions offer more competitive wages at $38,520 and $40,300 respectively. The data reveals that teachers aides in high-cost coastal states generally earn 30 to 40 percent more than their counterparts in southern and central states, though employment opportunities remain robust across all regions. Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and New Jersey cluster in the middle range with mean wages between $33,810 and $39,210, demonstrating that populous states with strong education systems tend to offer more competitive compensation packages even when accounting for regional cost-of-living differences.
Highest Paying Metropolitan Areas for Teachers Aide in the US 2025
| Metropolitan Area | Employment | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Location Quotient |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | 5,240 | $52,470 | $25.23 | 0.95 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 17,120 | $50,180 | $24.12 | 1.29 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | 1,630 | $49,030 | $23.57 | 1.46 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | 13,240 | $48,460 | $23.30 | 1.25 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | 1,620 | $47,770 | $22.97 | 1.72 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | 62,510 | $43,740 | $21.03 | 1.05 |
| Urban Honolulu, HI | 4,590 | $43,080 | $20.71 | 1.74 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA | 9,000 | $42,880 | $20.62 | 1.57 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | 18,700 | $42,590 | $20.48 | 1.23 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 41,630 | $42,090 | $20.24 | 1.12 |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
Metropolitan area analysis reveals where teachers aides earn the highest compensation in 2025, with California’s Bay Area dominating the top positions. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara metro area offers the absolute highest mean annual wage of $52,470, equivalent to $25.23 per hour, representing premium compensation that reflects the region’s exceptionally high cost of living and competitive labor market driven by the technology sector’s influence on local wages. Despite offering top dollar, the area employs 5,240 teachers aides with a location quotient of 0.95, indicating slightly lower concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting that while pay is excellent, competition for positions may be intense given the limited number of openings relative to other occupations in the region.
The San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward metropolitan area ranks second nationally with a mean annual wage of $50,180 and employs a substantially larger workforce of 17,120 teachers aides earning $24.12 per hour. This region’s location quotient of 1.29 indicates higher-than-average concentration of teachers aide positions, providing both excellent pay and more abundant opportunities. Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue emerges as the highest-paying non-California metro area with $48,460 annual mean wages, employing 13,240 workers at $23.30 per hour, demonstrating that Pacific Northwest metropolitan regions offer competitive compensation approaching Bay Area levels. The New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area, despite being the nation’s largest, offers comparatively modest mean wages of $43,740 for its massive workforce of 62,510 teachers aides, though this still represents solid compensation in absolute terms.
California metros dominate the top ten, with Santa Rosa, Vallejo-Fairfield, Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim all offering mean annual wages between $42,090 and $49,030. Smaller California metros like Santa Rosa and Vallejo-Fairfield show impressive location quotients of 1.46 and 1.72 respectively, indicating these areas have particularly high concentrations of teachers aide employment relative to their overall job markets. Urban Honolulu appears as the only non-mainland metro in the top ten with $43,080 mean annual wages for 4,590 employees and an exceptional location quotient of 1.74, reflecting Hawaii’s unique island economy and educational system needs. The Boston-Cambridge-Nashua metro rounds out the list with $42,590 annual compensation for 18,700 teachers aides, demonstrating that high-cost northeastern metros also provide competitive wages, though not quite matching West Coast levels.
Teachers Aide Employment by State in the US 2025
| State | Total Employment | Employment per 1,000 Jobs | Location Quotient | Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 142,630 | 8.00 | 1.19 | $43,010 |
| Texas | 134,100 | 9.70 | 1.45 | $31,340 |
| New York | 105,560 | 11.05 | 1.65 | $38,520 |
| Florida | 69,150 | 7.36 | 1.10 | $32,350 |
| Pennsylvania | 52,770 | 8.78 | 1.31 | $34,920 |
| Illinois | 44,890 | 7.44 | 1.11 | $36,690 |
| Ohio | 41,880 | 7.81 | 1.17 | $33,810 |
| New Jersey | 38,510 | 9.29 | 1.39 | $39,210 |
| North Carolina | 38,370 | 8.16 | 1.22 | $32,090 |
| Georgia | 36,860 | 7.88 | 1.18 | $34,020 |
| Virginia | 31,390 | 7.78 | 1.16 | $35,970 |
| Massachusetts | 33,580 | 9.27 | 1.38 | $40,300 |
| Washington | 30,130 | 8.19 | 1.22 | $43,640 |
| Michigan | 29,820 | 7.11 | 1.06 | $34,480 |
| Arizona | 24,530 | 7.62 | 1.14 | $34,360 |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
The distribution of teachers aide employment across states in 2025 reveals significant concentration in populous states with large education systems. California leads with 142,630 positions, representing the largest workforce of teachers aides in any single state, though its employment per 1,000 jobs ratio of 8.00 and location quotient of 1.19 indicate only moderate concentration relative to the state’s overall massive job market. Texas employs the second-largest workforce with 134,100 teachers aides and shows notably higher concentration with 9.70 positions per 1,000 jobs and a robust location quotient of 1.45, suggesting the state’s education system relies more heavily on teachers aides relative to other occupations compared to California, despite offering significantly lower compensation at $31,340 annually.
New York demonstrates the highest concentration among large states with 105,560 employed teachers aides, 11.05 positions per 1,000 jobs, and a location quotient of 1.65, indicating exceptionally strong demand for these education support professionals relative to the state’s overall employment base. This high concentration coupled with competitive mean annual wages of $38,520 reflects New York’s substantial investment in education support services across its diverse urban and rural school districts. Florida, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and New Jersey form the next tier with employment ranging from 38,510 to 69,150 positions, each maintaining solid location quotients between 1.10 and 1.39 that demonstrate consistent reliance on teachers aide support across different regional education models.
States like North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Massachusetts, Washington, Michigan, and Arizona employ between 24,530 and 38,370 teachers aides, with location quotients spanning 1.06 to 1.38, indicating that most states maintain fairly consistent ratios of teachers aides to overall employment regardless of size. The employment per 1,000 jobs metric ranges from 7.11 in Michigan to 11.05 in New York, showing that even lower-ranked states maintain substantial teachers aide workforces relative to their populations. The correlation between employment levels and wages remains imperfect, as Washington combines relatively modest employment numbers of 30,130 positions with the highest mean annual wage of $43,640, while Texas offers among the lowest compensation despite having the second-largest workforce, demonstrating that market size doesn’t necessarily translate to higher pay and that regional economic factors, cost of living, and state education funding priorities play dominant roles in determining compensation levels.
Teachers Aide Hourly Wage Distribution in the US 2025
| Wage Percentile | Hourly Wage | Annual Equivalent | Percentage of Workforce |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $11.40 | $23,710 | Bottom 10% |
| 25th Percentile | $13.64 | $28,360 | Bottom 25% |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $16.94 | $35,240 | Middle 50% |
| 75th Percentile | $20.65 | $42,950 | Top 25% |
| 90th Percentile | $23.14 | $48,140 | Top 10% |
| Mean Wage | $17.29 | $35,960 | Average across all workers |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
The hourly wage distribution for teachers aides in 2025 provides granular insight into earning potential at different career stages and experience levels. The 10th percentile hourly wage of $11.40, translating to $23,710 annually, represents entry-level compensation for the bottom ten percent of earners, typically reflecting positions in rural districts, lower-cost-of-living areas, or workers with minimal experience and basic qualifications. Moving to the 25th percentile reveals $13.64 per hour or $28,360 annually, marking a moderate increase that generally corresponds to teachers aides with 1-3 years of experience or those working in slightly more competitive markets, though these workers still earn below the national median and may struggle in high-cost areas.
The median hourly wage of $16.94, equivalent to $35,240 per year, represents the true middle of the earnings distribution where half of all teachers aides earn more and half earn less. This benchmark figure provides the most reliable indicator for professionals entering or currently working in the field to gauge reasonable compensation expectations. The mean hourly wage of $17.29 sits slightly above the median at $35,960 annually, reflecting the influence of higher-paid workers pulling the average upward, though the modest gap between mean and median suggests relatively balanced distribution without extreme outliers.
Higher earners experience substantial wage growth, with the 75th percentile reaching $20.65 per hour or $42,950 annually, representing experienced professionals, those with specialized skills or additional certifications, or workers in premium-paying metropolitan areas and school districts. The top ten percent of teachers aides earn $23.14 hourly or $48,140+ annually, more than double the entry-level 10th percentile wage, demonstrating meaningful career progression potential despite the occupation’s generally modest pay scale. This top tier typically includes teachers aides with extensive experience, specialized expertise in areas like special education, advanced degrees, or positions in the highest-paying states and metropolitan areas such as San Jose, San Francisco, and Seattle, where local market conditions support premium compensation levels.
Lowest Paying States for Teachers Aide in the US 2025
| State | Employment | Mean Annual Wage | Annual Median Wage | Mean Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | 10,280 | $26,860 | $25,630 | $12.91 |
| West Virginia | 6,180 | $27,550 | $26,290 | $13.25 |
| South Dakota | 3,990 | $28,380 | $27,100 | $13.64 |
| Alabama | 16,620 | $28,490 | $27,130 | $13.70 |
| Kentucky | 14,100 | $28,960 | $27,590 | $13.92 |
| Arkansas | 11,950 | $29,150 | $27,810 | $14.01 |
| Louisiana | 18,380 | $29,420 | $28,080 | $14.14 |
| Idaho | 6,140 | $29,490 | $28,150 | $14.18 |
| Oklahoma | 13,610 | $29,580 | $28,240 | $14.22 |
| Tennessee | 21,640 | $29,750 | $28,400 | $14.30 |
| Montana | 3,710 | $29,840 | $28,480 | $14.35 |
| New Mexico | 8,570 | $30,010 | $28,650 | $14.43 |
| Missouri | 21,960 | $30,470 | $29,100 | $14.65 |
| Indiana | 21,630 | $30,660 | $29,280 | $14.74 |
| Utah | 13,160 | $30,870 | $29,480 | $14.84 |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
The lowest-paying states for teachers aides in 2025 cluster predominantly in the South and Mountain West regions, reflecting economic conditions, education funding priorities, and cost-of-living differences that create substantial geographic wage disparities. Mississippi ranks as the absolute lowest-paying state with a mean annual wage of $26,860 and median earnings of $25,630, translating to just $12.91 per hour for 10,280 employed teachers aides. This compensation level sits $9,100 below the national median and nearly $17,000 less than top-paying states like Washington and California, representing a staggering 39 percent wage gap that highlights profound regional inequality in education support compensation.
West Virginia follows closely as the second-lowest paying state with $27,550 mean annual wages and employs 6,180 teachers aides earning $13.25 hourly, while South Dakota rounds out the bottom three at $28,380 annually for 3,990 workers. These states share common characteristics of lower overall wage levels across most occupations, rural populations with limited economic bases, and constrained state education budgets that affect compensation for all school employees. Alabama, Kentucky, Arkansas, Louisiana, Idaho, Oklahoma, and Tennessee form the next tier with mean wages ranging from $28,490 to $29,750, all falling below the $30,000 annual threshold and offering hourly rates between $13.70 and $14.30, substantially below the national median of $16.94 per hour.
Despite being lower-paying states, several maintain sizeable teachers aide workforces, with Tennessee employing 21,640 positions, Missouri with 21,960, Louisiana with 18,380, and Alabama with 16,620, demonstrating that these states still rely heavily on education support staff even while offering below-average compensation. Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Indiana complete the bottom fifteen states with mean wages between $29,840 and $30,870, barely crossing the $30,000 annual mark but remaining well below national averages. The consistent pattern across these states reveals that teachers aides in lower-cost-of-living regions face a double challenge: not only do they earn significantly less in absolute terms compared to coastal states, but many also find that even with lower living costs, their purchasing power remains constrained, with starting wages in some states barely exceeding minimum wage levels and experienced workers struggling to reach middle-class income thresholds.
Teachers Aide Experience Level Salary Progression in the US 2025
| Experience Level | Years of Experience | Mean Annual Salary | Mean Hourly Wage | Salary Increase from Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | Less than 1 year | $28,500 – $30,000 | $13.70 – $14.42 | Baseline |
| Early Career | 1-4 years | $30,000 – $33,000 | $14.42 – $15.87 | 5-10% |
| Mid-Career | 5-9 years | $33,000 – $38,000 | $15.87 – $18.27 | 16-27% |
| Experienced | 10-19 years | $38,000 – $43,000 | $18.27 – $20.67 | 33-43% |
| Late Career | 20+ years | $43,000 – $48,000 | $20.67 – $23.08 | 51-60% |
Data Source: Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics wage distribution data and industry salary progression patterns for May 2024
Experience significantly influences teachers aide salary progression in 2025, with compensation increasing steadily as professionals gain years of service, develop specialized skills, and demonstrate consistent performance in educational settings. Entry-level teachers aides with less than one year of experience typically earn between $28,500 and $30,000 annually, roughly $13.70 to $14.42 per hour, positioning them near the 10th to 25th percentile of the wage distribution. These beginning professionals often start at or slightly above local minimum wage standards, with exact compensation depending heavily on geographic location, school district budget conditions, and whether positions require specific certifications or educational backgrounds beyond a high school diploma.
Early career teachers aides with 1-4 years of experience see modest wage growth reaching $30,000 to $33,000 annually, representing 5-10 percent increases from entry-level compensation as they develop classroom management skills, build relationships with teachers and students, and demonstrate reliability. Mid-career professionals with 5-9 years of experience achieve more substantial gains climbing to $33,000 to $38,000 annually or $15.87 to $18.27 hourly, reflecting 16-27 percent increases from starting wages. At this stage, teachers aides often specialize in particular areas such as special education, bilingual support, or specific grade levels, which can command higher compensation.
Experienced teachers aides with 10-19 years of service reach $38,000 to $43,000 annual earnings, achieving 33-43 percent wage growth compared to entry-level positions, while late-career professionals with 20+ years of experience can earn $43,000 to $48,000 annually, representing 51-60 percent increases over their career trajectories. These senior teachers aides often work in the same districts for decades, benefiting from regular step increases, cost-of-living adjustments, and accumulated knowledge that makes them invaluable resources to their schools. However, the relatively compressed wage scale means that even after 20+ years, many teachers aides earn less than $50,000 annually, highlighting the profession’s fundamental challenge with long-term earning potential compared to other education careers that require similar dedication and experience.
Employment Outlook for Teachers Aide in the US 2024-2034
| Employment Metric | 2024 Data | 2034 Projection | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Employment | 1,400,000 jobs | 1,386,000 jobs | -14,000 jobs |
| Percent Change | Baseline | 10-year projection | -1% decline |
| Annual Job Openings | Current | 2024-2034 average | 170,400 openings |
| Reason for Openings | N/A | Replacement needs | 100% from turnover |
| National Average Growth | All occupations | 2024-2034 average | +3% growth |
| Comparison to Average | Current field | Industry comparison | 4 percentage points slower |
| Retirement Replacements | N/A | Primary opening source | Majority of openings |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2024-2034 and Occupational Outlook Handbook
The employment outlook for teachers aides from 2024 to 2034 presents a challenging picture with a projected 1 percent decline in total positions, shrinking from approximately 1,400,000 jobs in 2024 to 1,386,000 jobs by 2034, representing a loss of roughly 14,000 positions over the decade. This modest contraction stands in contrast to the projected 3 percent average growth expected across all occupations nationwide, making the teachers aide field 4 percentage points slower than the overall labor market. The decline reflects several converging factors including enrollment changes in K-12 schools, budget constraints facing educational institutions, increased use of educational technology that may reduce demand for human assistance in some contexts, and shifting priorities in how schools allocate support staff resources.
Despite the overall employment decline, the field will still generate substantial opportunities with approximately 170,400 annual job openings projected throughout the 2024-2034 period. This seemingly contradictory situation occurs because the vast majority of openings arise from replacement needs rather than employment growth, as teachers aides retire, transition to teaching positions, leave the workforce entirely, or move to different occupations. The high turnover rate typical in this field, driven by relatively modest wages, demanding work conditions, limited advancement opportunities, and the physical and emotional challenges of working with children, ensures consistent hiring needs even as total employment shrinks slightly.
The replacement-driven job market means that individuals entering the teachers aide profession in 2025 will find opportunities available, particularly in high-need areas such as special education support, bilingual assistance, and schools serving disadvantaged populations where retention challenges remain most acute. Geographic variations will create uneven opportunity landscapes, with growing suburban and exurban school districts in states experiencing population growth likely maintaining stable or increasing demand, while rural districts and areas with declining school-age populations may see more significant position reductions. Teachers aides considering long-term careers should recognize that while job security remains reasonable and opportunities will exist, advancement typically requires additional education to transition into teaching roles or other education careers, as the teachers aide position itself offers limited upward mobility within its classification structure.
Teachers Aide Salary by Education Level in the US 2025
| Education Requirement | Typical Minimum | Estimated Mean Salary | Percentage of Positions | Career Advancement Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High School Diploma | GED or equivalent | $32,000 – $34,000 | 60-65% | Limited without further education |
| Some College/No Degree | 48+ college credits | $34,000 – $37,000 | 20-25% | Moderate with experience |
| Associate Degree | 2-year degree | $37,000 – $40,000 | 10-15% | Good pathway to teaching |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4-year degree | $40,000 – $45,000 | 3-5% | Excellent for teacher transition |
| Specialized Certification | Additional training | $35,000 – $42,000 | Varies | Enhanced in specialization area |
Data Source: Analysis based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics educational requirements and compensation patterns for teacher assistants, 2024
Educational credentials significantly influence teachers aide salary levels in 2025, though the impact remains more modest compared to many other professions where advanced degrees command substantial premium compensation. The majority of teachers aide positions (60-65 percent) require only a high school diploma or GED equivalent, with these workers typically earning $32,000 to $34,000 annually, slightly below the national median for the occupation. Many school districts set this as their minimum qualification, particularly for elementary school aides working in general education classrooms where responsibilities focus on basic instructional support, classroom management assistance, and administrative task completion under direct teacher supervision.
Teachers aides with some college education but no completed degree represent 20-25 percent of the workforce and earn moderately higher wages in the $34,000 to $37,000 range, reflecting the value many districts place on higher education exposure even without credential completion. Several states mandate that teacher assistants working in Title I programs funded by federal dollars must complete at least 48 credit hours of college coursework or pass rigorous skills assessments, creating a bifurcated market where federally-funded positions often require more education than other teachers aide roles. Associate degree holders comprise 10-15 percent of teachers aides, earning $37,000 to $40,000 annually, with two-year degrees in early childhood education, elementary education, or special education proving particularly valuable.
A small segment of teachers aides (3-5 percent) hold bachelor’s degrees, often working in these positions temporarily while pursuing teaching credentials or unable to secure full teaching positions due to certification requirements or market conditions. These highly educated aides typically earn $40,000 to $45,000 annually, approaching or exceeding the 75th percentile for the occupation, and frequently transition to teaching roles within a few years. Specialized certifications in areas such as special education support, English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction assistance, behavioral intervention, or specific instructional methodologies can boost compensation by $2,000 to $5,000 annually regardless of base education level, with exact premiums varying by district need and certification scarcity. School districts facing critical shortages in specialized areas may offer additional stipends or higher placement on salary schedules for teachers aides possessing sought-after skills, making targeted professional development a strategic career investment for those committed to remaining in the field long-term.
Teachers Aide Part-Time vs Full-Time Salary in the US 2025
| Employment Status | Typical Hours | Mean Annual Salary | Mean Hourly Wage | Benefits Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (12-Month) | 40 hours/week year-round | $38,000 – $42,000 | $18.27 – $20.19 | Comprehensive benefits package |
| Full-Time (School Year) | 40 hours/week during school year | $32,000 – $36,000 | $16.94 – $19.05 | Partial benefits, no summer pay |
| Part-Time (Regular) | 20-30 hours/week | $18,000 – $24,000 | $15.87 – $18.27 | Limited or no benefits |
| Part-Time (Substitute) | Variable hours | $13.00 – $18.00 per hour | $13.00 – $18.00 | No benefits typically |
| Part-Time (Specialized) | 20-30 hours/week | $20,000 – $27,000 | $17.29 – $19.71 | Some benefits possible |
Data Source: Analysis based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment patterns and compensation structures for teacher assistants, 2024
The distinction between full-time and part-time employment dramatically affects annual earnings and overall compensation packages for teachers aides in 2025, with employment structure proving nearly as influential as geographic location in determining take-home pay. Full-time teachers aides working 12-month schedules represent the highest-earning segment, typically employed in year-round schools, extended school year programs, or districts offering summer programming, earning $38,000 to $42,000 annually at $18.27 to $20.19 per hour while receiving comprehensive benefit packages including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and sometimes tuition reimbursement programs for continuing education.
The more common full-time school-year-only positions, following traditional 9-10 month academic calendars, generate $32,000 to $36,000 in annual income despite similar hourly rates of $16.94 to $19.05, as these workers receive no compensation during summer months unless they secure additional employment. Many districts offer these employees the option to spread their school-year earnings across 12 monthly payments to ease budgeting challenges, though total annual compensation remains substantially lower than year-round positions. These school-year employees typically receive partial benefits, often including health insurance (sometimes with reduced employer contributions), retirement plan access, and limited paid leave, but face the financial strain of 2-3 unpaid months annually.
Part-time teachers aides working regular 20-30 hour weekly schedules earn $18,000 to $24,000 annually, with hourly rates of $15.87 to $18.27 that may match full-time rates but generate far lower annual income due to reduced hours. These positions rarely include benefits beyond legally mandated minimums, leaving workers to secure health insurance independently and forgo retirement contributions, paid leave, and other valuable perquisites. Substitute teachers aides working variable hours represent the most precarious employment category, earning $13.00 to $18.00 per hour with zero benefits, no guaranteed hours, and income volatility that makes financial planning extremely challenging. However, specialized part-time positions supporting students with significant disabilities or intensive intervention needs may command premium hourly rates of $17.29 to $19.71, generating $20,000 to $27,000 annually with occasionally negotiated partial benefits reflecting the valuable specialized skills these workers bring. The part-time/full-time divide creates a two-tiered system where similarly skilled workers experience vastly different economic realities based primarily on their employers’ budget structures and staffing models rather than performance or qualifications.
Teachers Aide Salary in Private vs Public Schools in the US 2025
| School Type | Mean Annual Salary | Mean Hourly Wage | Estimated Employment | Benefits Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Elementary/Secondary | $36,160 | $17.38 | 1,232,940 | Comprehensive state/district benefits |
| Private Elementary/Secondary | $32,500 – $34,000 | $15.63 – $16.35 | 45,000 – 55,000 | Variable, often less comprehensive |
| Public Special Programs | $37,500 – $39,000 | $18.03 – $18.75 | Included in public total | Enhanced for specialized roles |
| Religious/Parochial Schools | $28,000 – $31,000 | $13.46 – $14.90 | 20,000 – 25,000 | Minimal, often no retirement |
| Private Special Education | $38,000 – $42,000 | $18.27 – $20.19 | 15,000 – 20,000 | Competitive in specialized settings |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data for public schools and industry analysis for private sector estimates, 2024
The public versus private school divide creates substantial compensation differences for teachers aides in 2025, with public school positions consistently offering superior wages and benefits compared to most private educational settings. Public elementary and secondary schools employ the vast majority of teachers aides with 1,232,940 positions offering a mean annual salary of $36,160 and $17.38 per hour, backed by comprehensive benefit packages including health insurance with significant employer contributions, state pension systems or 403(b) retirement plans with employer matching, substantial paid time off, job security protections, and union representation in many districts that provides additional employment protections and grievance procedures.
Private elementary and secondary schools typically pay $32,500 to $34,000 annually or $15.63 to $16.35 hourly, representing $3,000 to $4,000 less than comparable public positions, while employing an estimated 45,000 to 55,000 teachers aides nationwide. Private school benefit packages vary tremendously by institution, with elite independent schools sometimes offering competitive benefits while smaller private academies provide minimal coverage, often requiring employees to shoulder larger portions of health insurance premiums and offering limited or no retirement benefits. The compensation gap reflects private schools’ generally tighter budgets, reliance on tuition revenue without public funding supplements, and different market dynamics where mission-driven employees may accept lower pay to work in specific educational philosophies or religious environments.
Religious and parochial schools represent the lowest-paying segment, offering just $28,000 to $31,000 annually or $13.46 to $14.90 per hour for an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 teachers aides, with benefits often limited to basic health insurance or nothing at all beyond legally required coverage. These institutions frequently rely on employees’ commitment to religious mission as partial compensation, though this creates financial hardship for workers who earn $8,000 or more below public school equivalents. Conversely, private special education schools and therapeutic programs emerge as exceptions to the private school penalty, paying competitive $38,000 to $42,000 annually for 15,000 to 20,000 highly specialized teachers aides working with students who have significant disabilities or behavioral challenges. These specialized private settings often match or exceed public school compensation due to the intensive training required, challenging work conditions, and competition from public special education programs that also seek these skilled professionals, creating a niche high-wage segment within the broader private education landscape.
Teachers Aide Salary by Urban, Suburban, and Rural Areas in the US 2025
| Area Classification | Mean Annual Salary | Mean Hourly Wage | Cost of Living Impact | Employment Concentration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major Urban Centers | $40,000 – $45,000 | $19.23 – $21.63 | High cost, moderate real income | High employment density |
| Suburban Districts | $36,000 – $40,000 | $17.31 – $19.23 | Moderate cost, better value | Highest overall employment |
| Small Cities/Towns | $32,000 – $35,000 | $15.38 – $16.83 | Low cost, reasonable real income | Moderate employment |
| Rural Areas | $28,000 – $32,000 | $13.46 – $15.38 | Lowest cost, constrained income | Lower employment density |
| Remote Rural | $26,000 – $29,000 | $12.50 – $13.94 | Very low cost, limited opportunities | Sparse employment |
Data Source: Analysis based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics metropolitan and nonmetropolitan area wage data, 2024
Geographic classification beyond state boundaries reveals how urban, suburban, and rural locations influence teachers aide compensation in 2025, with the urban-rural divide creating wage differentials that rival state-to-state variations. Major urban centers including cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, and San Francisco pay $40,000 to $45,000 annually or $19.23 to $21.63 per hour, representing the highest absolute wages but often yielding only moderate real purchasing power after accounting for expensive housing, transportation costs, and higher prices for goods and services. These dense metropolitan areas concentrate large numbers of teachers aide positions due to substantial student populations, but competition for affordable housing and challenging commutes can offset wage advantages.
Suburban school districts surrounding major metropolitan areas emerge as potentially the most advantageous locations, offering $36,000 to $40,000 annual salaries at $17.31 to $19.23 hourly, which frequently provides superior real income compared to urban centers due to moderately lower living costs while maintaining reasonable wage levels. Suburban districts employ the highest overall numbers of teachers aides as middle-class families concentrate in these areas, creating robust demand for education support services across numerous school buildings. These communities often feature newer facilities, smaller class sizes, and family-friendly environments that make them attractive workplaces beyond pure compensation considerations.
Small cities and towns pay $32,000 to $35,000 annually or $15.38 to $16.83 per hour, with significantly lower costs of living potentially yielding competitive real purchasing power despite modest absolute wages. Rural areas offer $28,000 to $32,000 or $13.46 to $15.38 hourly, with lower employment density but also substantially reduced living expenses that can make these wages workable for families with multiple income sources or lower housing costs through home ownership. The most challenging situations exist in remote rural areas paying just $26,000 to $29,000 annually at $12.50 to $13.94 per hour, where even low costs of living cannot fully compensate for wages barely above poverty levels for families, limited advancement opportunities, and frequently inadequate benefits due to small district budgets. These remote areas often struggle with recruitment and retention, experiencing chronic vacancies that burden existing staff, yet budget limitations prevent addressing compensation gaps, creating a persistent challenge for educational quality in underserved communities most in need of stable, experienced support staff.
Teachers Aide Benefits Package Value in the US 2025
| Benefit Type | Public School Value | Private School Value | Typical Coverage | Annual Dollar Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Employer pays 70-90% | Employer pays 40-60% | Medical, dental, vision | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Retirement Contributions | 8-14% of salary | 0-3% of salary | Pension or 403(b)/401(k) | $2,900 – $5,000 |
| Paid Time Off | 10-15 sick days, 10-12 holidays | 5-10 sick days, 8-10 holidays | Sick leave, holidays, personal | $2,700 – $4,000 |
| Life Insurance | 1-2x annual salary | Often not provided | Basic coverage | $300 – $800 |
| Disability Insurance | Short and long-term | Rarely provided | Income protection | $400 – $900 |
| Professional Development | $500 – $2,000 annually | $0 – $500 annually | Training, certifications | $500 – $2,000 |
| Total Benefits Package Value | $16,800 – $27,700 | $5,000 – $10,000 | All benefits combined | 47-77% of base salary (public) |
Data Source: Analysis based on typical education sector benefit packages and Bureau of Labor Statistics benefits data, 2024-2025
The true value of teachers aide compensation in 2025 extends far beyond base salary figures, with comprehensive benefits packages adding substantial worth that varies dramatically between public and private sector positions. Public school teachers aides typically receive benefits valued at $16,800 to $27,700 annually, representing 47 to 77 percent of base salary depending on wage levels and employer contribution rates. Health insurance emerges as the single most valuable benefit, with employers typically covering 70 to 90 percent of premium costs for employee coverage and often substantial portions of family coverage, providing protection worth $10,000 to $15,000 annually that would cost employees those amounts if purchased independently on private insurance markets.
Retirement benefits constitute the second most valuable component, with public school systems contributing 8 to 14 percent of salary into pension systems or defined contribution plans, adding $2,900 to $5,000 annually in employer contributions for a worker earning the median salary. Many teachers aides participate in the same state pension systems as teachers, earning retirement credits based on years of service and final average salary, though their lower wages result in more modest pension benefits compared to certified teachers. Paid time off including 10 to 15 sick days, 10 to 12 paid holidays, and often 1 to 3 personal days provides economic value worth $2,700 to $4,000 annually, allowing workers to handle illnesses, family emergencies, and personal needs without lost income, a critical benefit for workers earning modest wages who cannot afford unpaid leave.
Additional benefits including basic life insurance coverage typically valued at one to two times annual salary, short and long-term disability insurance protecting income if illness or injury prevents work, and professional development funding for continuing education or certification programs add $1,200 to $3,700 in combined value annually. Some districts also offer tuition reimbursement programs encouraging teachers aides to pursue teaching degrees, employee assistance programs providing counseling and support services, and union membership benefits including legal representation and grievance procedures. Private school teachers aides receive dramatically less comprehensive packages typically worth just $5,000 to $10,000 annually, often limited to partial health insurance subsidies with no retirement contributions beyond legally required Social Security, minimal paid time off, and few if any additional benefits. This benefits gap means that public school teachers aides earning $36,000 base salary with full benefits effectively receive total compensation exceeding $50,000, while private school counterparts earning $33,000 with minimal benefits effectively receive closer to $38,000, widening the real compensation differential between sectors beyond what salary figures alone suggest.
Gender and Diversity Statistics for Teachers Aide in the US 2025
| Demographic Category | Percentage of Workforce | Median Annual Salary | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Female | 91-93% | $35,180 | Overwhelming majority of workforce |
| Male | 7-9% | $35,420 | Small percentage, slightly higher median |
| White (Non-Hispanic) | 66-68% | $35,800 | Largest racial group |
| Hispanic/Latino | 17-19% | $33,900 | Second largest, lower median pay |
| Black/African American | 13-15% | $34,200 | Significant representation |
| Asian | 2-3% | $36,500 | Smallest major group, higher median |
| Other Races | 2-3% | $34,800 | Small percentage of workforce |
| Age 55 and Older | 28-32% | $37,200 | Higher wages reflect experience |
| Age 25-54 | 60-65% | $35,000 | Prime working age majority |
| Age Under 25 | 5-8% | $28,500 | Entry level, lower compensation |
Data Source: Analysis based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics demographic data and Current Population Survey patterns for education support occupations, 2024
The teachers aide workforce in 2025 demonstrates pronounced demographic patterns reflecting broader trends in education support roles across the United States. Women comprise 91 to 93 percent of all teachers aides, making this one of the most female-dominated occupations in the American labor market, a pattern consistent across elementary, secondary, and special education settings. This overwhelming gender imbalance stems from historical associations between caregiving roles and female employment, scheduling that accommodates family responsibilities with school-hour work and summer breaks, and societal expectations that continue channeling women toward education support careers despite efforts to diversify the profession.
Men represent only 7 to 9 percent of teachers aides but earn a median annual salary of $35,420, slightly exceeding the female median of $35,180, though this modest wage gap of approximately $240 annually likely reflects different distribution across specialized roles rather than direct discrimination, with higher percentages of male teachers aides working in secondary schools, special education settings requiring physical intervention capabilities, and positions involving behavioral support where physical presence provides de-escalation advantages. The narrow wage differential suggests that explicit gender-based pay disparities remain minimal in this heavily regulated public sector occupation with standardized salary schedules.
Racial and ethnic composition reveals a workforce somewhat more diverse than teaching ranks but less diverse than the student populations served, with White non-Hispanic workers comprising 66 to 68 percent of teachers aides earning a median of $35,800 annually. Hispanic/Latino workers constitute 17 to 19 percent of the workforce, their median earnings of $33,900 falling notably below overall medians, potentially reflecting concentration in lower-paying states like Texas, Florida, and parts of the Southwest, or employment in positions requiring bilingual skills that don’t command corresponding wage premiums despite their value. Black/African American teachers aides represent 13 to 15 percent of workers with median earnings of $34,200, while Asian workers comprise just 2 to 3 percent but earn the highest group median at $36,500, possibly reflecting higher education levels or concentration in premium-paying West Coast metropolitan areas.
Age distribution shows that 28 to 32 percent of teachers aides are age 55 or older, earning median salaries of $37,200 that reflect accumulated experience, seniority-based raises, and long tenure in stable positions. This substantial older worker presence indicates that many teachers aides make long-term careers in the field despite modest wages, valuing job stability, benefits, work schedules, and satisfaction from working with children. The prime working age group of 25 to 54 comprises 60 to 65 percent of workers earning close to the overall median of $35,000, while workers under age 25 represent just 5 to 8 percent with significantly lower median earnings of $28,500, reflecting entry-level status, part-time schedules common among college students working as aides, and limited experience that places these youngest workers at the bottom of salary scales regardless of potential.
Teachers Aide Salary Compared to Related Occupations in the US 2025
| Related Occupation | Mean Annual Salary | Mean Hourly Wage | Employment | Salary Difference vs Teachers Aide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teachers Aide | $35,960 | $17.29 | 1,375,300 | Baseline comparison |
| Preschool Teachers | $40,760 | $19.60 | 383,700 | +$4,800 (+13%) |
| Teacher Assistants, Postsecondary | $36,030 | $17.32 | 119,990 | +$70 (+0.2%) |
| Library Assistants | $35,710 | $17.17 | 89,930 | -$250 (-0.7%) |
| Childcare Workers | $31,830 | $15.30 | 555,710 | -$4,130 (-11.5%) |
| Recreation Workers | $34,680 | $16.67 | 287,260 | -$1,280 (-3.6%) |
| Special Education Teachers | $71,820 | $34.53 | 485,260 | +$35,860 (+100%) |
| Elementary School Teachers | $69,690 | $33.51 | 1,393,130 | +$33,730 (+94%) |
| School Counselors | $66,510 | $31.98 | 335,810 | +$30,550 (+85%) |
| Instructional Coordinators | $75,710 | $36.40 | 187,360 | +$39,750 (+111%) |
Data Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Survey, May 2024
Comparing teachers aide salaries to related education and childcare occupations in 2025 reveals where this position fits within the broader educational support and instruction landscape. Teachers aides with a mean annual salary of $35,960 earn slightly less than preschool teachers who command $40,760 annually, a difference of $4,800 or 13 percent that reflects the higher qualification requirements and greater independent responsibility preschool teachers assume as lead classroom instructors. Postsecondary teacher assistants working in colleges and universities earn nearly identical wages at $36,030, just $70 more annually, despite working with older students, suggesting that higher education settings don’t necessarily translate to significantly better compensation for support roles.
Library assistants and teachers aides cluster at remarkably similar compensation levels with library assistants earning $35,710, only $250 less annually, demonstrating that education support roles across different specializations maintain comparable wage structures. However, childcare workers earn substantially less at $31,830 annually, $4,130 below teachers aides representing an 11.5 percent wage disadvantage, reflecting the generally lower compensation standards in early childhood care settings outside formal school systems, where regulatory requirements, education expectations, and funding sources differ substantially. Recreation workers similarly trail at $34,680, $1,280 less than teachers aides, showing that structured educational environments typically pay premiums compared to less formal youth development settings.
The dramatic salary gap between teachers aides and certified teaching positions highlights the profession’s ceiling without additional credentials. Special education teachers earn $71,820 annually, literally double the teachers aide mean salary with a difference of $35,860 or 100 percent, while elementary school teachers at $69,690 earn $33,730 more representing a 94 percent premium. School counselors command $66,510, $30,550 above teachers aides at an 85 percent increase, and instructional coordinators top the education occupation wage scale at $75,710, exceeding teachers aides by $39,750 or 111 percent. These substantial differentials underscore that teachers aides face severe earning limitations without pursuing bachelor’s degrees and teaching certifications, with the teaching credential alone typically more than doubling lifetime earning potential despite involving similar work environments and student populations. For teachers aides considering long-term education careers, these comparisons demonstrate both the challenge of current compensation and the substantial financial rewards available through additional education and professional advancement into certified teaching positions or specialized education roles.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
