Salary is one factor that leads to overall satisfaction in a career.
After graduation, elementary education graduates typically earn high salaries compared to the national average. Top earners make $52,711, while the bottom 20% make closer to $29,851. The median grad salary is $39,667.
Elementary Education graduate salaries over time
The typical early career salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education is $28,577, and within five years of graduation, this average salary goes up to $37,398.
This chart maps the average workforce wage by years of experience:
Wage ($USD)
Years of work experience
Highest paying jobs for elementary education graduates
The highest paying careers for elementary education graduates are principal, kindergarten teacher, elementary school teacher and special education teacher, with top salaries averaging around $68,130.
Highest Paying Careers
Avg Pay (USD)
As per most recent US census
Pro tip
Still unsure if a degree in elementary education is your calling? Read our comprehensive guide on choosing a career