Teaching English Abroad abroad salaries: what to expect

Dreaming of teaching English abroad but wondering if the pay will cover your travel and lifestyle goals? Teaching English in another country can open doors to amazing experiences, but it’s important to understand how much you can expect to earn in different regions. Let’s break down what TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teachers typically make worldwide and what factors can impact your salary abroad.

1. Asia: High Salaries and Added Benefits

Asia is home to some of the highest teaching salaries, and it’s a popular choice for new and experienced teachers alike. Countries like South Korea, China, and Japan lead in competitive pay, sometimes adding perks like free housing, airfare reimbursement, and health insurance.

Salaries in Asia

• South Korea: $1,600 - $2,500 per month
  Benefits like free housing and airfare make this even more attractive, and the EPIK (English Program in Korea) is a well-known route for teachers seeking stability.

• China: $1,200 - $2,800 per month
  China’s demand for English teachers is huge, with some schools even covering accommodation and meals. Larger cities tend to pay more, but living costs can be higher in places like Beijing and Shanghai.

• Japan: $2,000 - $3,000 per month
  Japan has a high cost of living, but with programs like JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching Program) offering competitive pay, it remains a popular destination. Additional perks may include flight reimbursements and housing stipends.

• Vietnam and Thailand: $1,000 - $1,500 per month
  Though the pay is lower in Southeast Asia, the cost of living is much more affordable. It’s easy to live comfortably and even save a bit in these locations, especially if you’re mindful of your expenses.

2. Middle East: The Highest Salaries with Some Requirements

The Middle East has some of the highest teaching salaries, especially in places like United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. Tax-free salaries and comprehensive benefits, such as housing, flights, and insurance, make the Middle East a top choice for saving money.

Salaries in the Middle East

• United Arab Emirates (UAE): $3,000 - $5,000 per month
  Teachers in the UAE often receive housing, travel allowances, and health insurance, which means much of your paycheck can go toward savings or travel.

• Saudi Arabia: $2,500 - $4,000 per month
  Along with tax-free income, many Saudi schools offer free housing and generous vacation time, although the cultural differences can require some adjustment.

• Qatar and Kuwait: $2,000 - $3,500 per month
  With similar benefits to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, these countries also provide opportunities for high earnings and perks that make saving easy.

Requirements

Most Middle Eastern countries require a bachelor’s degree and 2+ years of teaching experience. In some cases, employers may also prefer candidates with a TEFL certification or experience in teaching specific subjects like business English.

3. Europe: Modest Salaries with a High Cost of Living

Europe offers a unique experience but usually lower salaries compared to Asia or the Middle East. It’s common to see lower wages paired with a higher cost of living in many European countries, so it may be challenging to save much while teaching.

Salaries in Europe

• Spain: $700 - $1,500 per month
  Programs like Auxiliares de Conversación in Spain offer modest stipends, but private tutoring can supplement income. Housing and food can be costly, so many teachers share apartments with roommates.

• France: $800 - $1,600 per month
  The French TAPIF program (Teaching Assistant Program in France) is popular among North American teachers, but similar to Spain, the income mainly covers living expenses.

• Italy: $800 - $1,400 per month
  Although Italy has one of Europe’s lower salary averages for English teachers, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking rich cultural immersion, even if savings are minimal.

Requirements

Most European countries require a TEFL certification and, for non-EU citizens, a visa process that can be lengthy and competitive. Private tutoring can be a good way to increase your income here, especially in Western Europe.

4. Latin America: Lower Pay, High Adventure

Latin America doesn’t pay as much as other regions, but the cost of living is often low, and the experience is rich with cultural opportunities. It’s a great choice for those more focused on adventure and immersion than on earning or saving large amounts.

Salaries in Latin America

• Mexico: $500 - $800 per month
  Though the pay is lower, living costs are very manageable, and private lessons are popular to boost income.

• Colombia: $600 - $1,000 per month
  Colombia has a growing demand for English teachers, and you can usually live comfortably on the salary. Some programs may offer housing assistance or bonuses.

• Chile and Argentina: $700 - $1,200 per month
  Teaching salaries in Chile and Argentina cover basic expenses, but don’t expect to save much. These locations are ideal for teachers who prioritize lifestyle and cultural exploration.

Requirements

While a TEFL certificate is generally preferred, many schools in Latin America are more flexible, especially in remote areas. A bachelor’s degree may also be optional in several countries, making this region accessible for teachers without advanced qualifications.

5. Teaching English Online: Flexible Pay with Global Reach

With the rise of online teaching platforms, many teachers are taking their skills digital. Online English teaching offers flexibility in location, so you can travel while you teach or work from home. Earnings can vary widely based on your schedule, experience, and the platform you choose.

Average Pay for Online Teaching

• Hourly Rate: $10 - $30 per hour
  Many platforms pay by the hour, allowing teachers to set their own schedules and potentially work with students from around the world.

Requirements

Most online teaching platforms require a TEFL certification and a stable internet connection. Some platforms also prefer a bachelor’s degree, but there are several that do not. It’s a popular option for teachers who want the flexibility of teaching from anywhere.

Factors That Impact Your Salary

Wherever you decide to teach, a few factors can impact how much you make and what benefits you receive:

• Location: Salaries vary greatly depending on the country and city. For instance, teachers in cities like Tokyo or Dubai tend to earn more than those in smaller towns.
• Experience: Some schools offer higher pay for teachers with experience or specialized certifications in areas like business English.
• Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree and TEFL certification can increase your earning potential and eligibility for benefits in many countries.
• Contract Type: Full-time roles in public or international schools often come with more benefits, while part-time or private tutoring jobs may offer less stability but greater flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Teaching English abroad provides more than just a paycheck—it’s a chance to explore, connect, and make a positive impact in the lives of your students. While salaries can vary by country and role, most teachers find that their income allows them to live comfortably and immerse themselves in a new culture. Whether you’re looking to save, explore, or simply cover your travel costs, there’s a teaching opportunity out there that fits your goals.

Ready to start your teaching journey? With the right preparation, the world of teaching English abroad is full of opportunities for adventure, growth, and meaningful connections. 🌍