The average teacher salary in Connecticut is approximately $81,000 per year. This figure can vary based on district, experience, and education level. Entry-level teachers earn around $50,000, while experienced teachers with advanced degrees can exceed $100,000.
How Much Do Teachers in Connecticut Really Make?
Most teachers in Connecticut earn between $70,000 and $90,000 a year, depending on where they work and how long they’ve been teaching. Some top-tier districts offer over $150,000. Others start new teachers closer to $50,000.
Here’s a snapshot of recent salary data:
| Connecticut Teacher Salary Table |
|---|
| Source |
| TEACH Connecticut |
| CareerExplorer |
| Salary.com (High School) |
| ZipRecruiter |
| Patch |
| Salary.com (Public School) |
| NEA |
Starting Pay vs. Veteran Pay
New teachers typically earn $43,000 to $50,000. But salaries climb fast with time and education. Veteran teachers with a master’s degree or higher can earn well over $100,000.
- First-year teacher in Coventry: Around $48,000
- 10+ years in Greenwich: Up to $152,915
- Master’s degree + 20 years in West Hartford: $95,000+
Big Gaps Between Districts
Pay depends heavily on where you teach. In high-income districts like Greenwich or Darien, teachers take home significantly more than peers in lower-funded districts like Bridgeport or Meriden.
Examples:
- Greenwich: Avg. salary $152,915
- Darien: Avg. over $120,000
- Bridgeport: Starting pay closer to $50,000
This difference comes down to local taxes, cost of living, and union contracts.
How Teacher Pay Compares to Other Careers
Connecticut teachers earn as much or more than many careers that require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Plus, they work fewer days per year: 180 to 190 vs. 260 in most other jobs.
Average salaries in similar fields:
- Registered Nurse: $85,000
- Accountant: $78,000
- Social Worker: $72,000
Factor in summer breaks, holidays, and job stability—and it adds up.
Benefits Make a Big Difference
It’s not just about base pay. Teachers in Connecticut also get strong benefits:
- Health insurance
- Pensions (through the STRS system)
- Paid sick and personal days
- Union protections
- Tuition reimbursement and PD support
These extras make teaching a more secure and rewarding long-term career.
What’s Next for Teacher Pay in Connecticut?
Lawmakers are pushing to raise the minimum starting salary to $60,000. That’s a big jump from the current $43,000–$50,000 most districts offer. The goal? Attract new teachers and stop burnout.
If approved, this could reshape the career pipeline statewide.
The proposal is still under review, and any updates will be posted on official state pages once approved.
Quick Answers
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
How do Connecticut teacher salaries compare to other professions requiring a bachelor’s or master’s degree?
They’re competitive. Teachers earn similar or better pay—and work fewer days per year.
Are there big differences between districts?
Yes. Some districts offer $150K+. Others stay below $70K.
What’s the latest on the proposed $60K minimum starting salary?
It’s still in legislative review. If passed, it would boost entry pay by $10,000+ in many towns.
It’s still in legislative review. If passed, it would boost entry pay by $10,000+ in many towns.
Yes. Teachers work 180–190 days, compared to 260 in most jobs. That means more time off and a higher per-day rate.
