Home / Career & Work / Teacher Pay Up 27% Since...

Teacher Pay Up 27% Since 2015, But Still 5% Below 2015 Levels After Inflation

Left 29% Center coverage: 14 sources Right

Washington, D.C., USA

May 20, 2025 Negative General

Washington, D.C., USA: A new NEA report shows teacher salaries rose nearly 27% nominally over the past decade but remain 5% lower in real terms once inflation is factored in. Starting salaries saw their biggest nominal jump in 15 years, yet still lag behind cost-of-living increases. Teachers’ unions argue this fuels shortages and burnout as educators face higher housing and grocery bills. States like California top the pay chart at $100k+, while Mississippi lags near $54k.

What this means for you:

•	If you’re an educator, look into programs (e.g. National Board Certification) for salary incentives.
•	Families should be aware that teacher shortages can lead to larger class sizes or fewer course offerings.
•	Considering a teaching career? Research cost-of-living in your target district and explore housing assistance options.
•	Advocate for legislative changes if local teacher pay fails to keep pace with inflation.

Key Entities

• National Education Association (NEA): A major teachers’ union founded in 1857.
• Publishes annual pay reviews, calling for better compensation.
• U.S. Public School Teachers: About 3 million nationwide.
• Many report side jobs or leaving the profession due to financial struggles.
• State Education Departments: Set funding formulas and teacher pay scales, varying widely.
• Becky Pringle: NEA President.
• Advocates for more federal and state investments in educator salaries.

Bias Distribution

Left: 57% (8 sources)

Center: 29% (4 sources)

Right: 14% (2 sources)

Multi-Perspective Analysis

Left-Leaning View

Demands larger budget allocations for teacher pay, seeing education as a cornerstone of society.

Centrist View

Recognizes the pay gap but weighs it against other fiscal priorities.

Right-Leaning View

Often emphasizes accountability measures and performance outcomes before boosting salaries.

Want to dive deeper?

We've prepared an in-depth analysis of this story with additional context and background.

Featuring Our Experts' Perspectives in an easy-to-read format.

Read Deep Dive

Related Roadmaps

Explore step-by-step guides related to this story, designed to help you apply this knowledge in your life.

Loading roadmaps...

Please wait while we find relevant roadmaps for you.

Explore All Roadmaps

Your Opinion

Would higher teacher salaries encourage you or someone you know to pursue or stay in teaching?

Your feedback helps us improve our content.

Comments (0)

Add your comment

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!