Teaching English in China offers a unique insight into the education industry. Whether you see TEFL as a short-term opportunity or you’re in it for the long haul, there are plenty of benefits to be gained. While of course you’ll be able to see the world, experience a new culture, and bolster your resume, you’ll also wonder how it may benefit your wallet.
Here’s what you can expect - and factors to consider - when it comes to your salary expectations for teaching English in China!

Factors to Consider for English Teachers' Salaries in China
There are many factors to consider when it comes to your salary teaching English in China. No two jobs are the same, and this also goes for teachers. Here are some of the most prominent factors to consider which will affect your salary teaching English in China.
Teaching Qualifications: Your level and type of qualifications will have a significant impact on your salary potential when teaching in China. Most positions will require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree, and while most teachers settle for a 120 hour online TEFL course, others will have gone the extra mile with a CELTA or even a teaching license. Needless to say, the higher the qualification, the greater your salary potential teaching in China.
Experience: Experienced teachers will understandably receive higher salaries than entry-level teachers. Not only does direct teaching experience go a long way, but experience teaching in China will increase your earning potential because employers will know that you can function confidently in Chinese society and the workplace.
Teaching Location: You’ll also need to consider where to teach English in China. There is a strong correlation between the teacher’s salary and the location’s cost of living, with high-paying cities including Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. If there is a greater international presence - and therefore a higher demand for English speakers - teachers are likely to receive higher salaries in these locations.
School type: Entry-level teachers will often find positions in public schools or private training centres which offer lower salaries, whereas more experienced teachers can find work in international schools. While universities also require high levels of qualifications, they don’t necessarily have salaries as high as international schools.
What is the Average Salary for English Teachers in China?
The average salary for teaching English in China can range from around $1,200 to $4,000 USD (or even more!) depending on your qualifications, experience, school type, and location.
Entry-Level Teaching: Entry-level teachers can expect to earn around $1,200–$2,000 USD per month depending on where they teach. Often, these teachers will work at public schools or private language centers.
Mid-Level Positions: Teachers who have more experience or higher qualifications can earn from around $2,000–$3,500 USD per month working at international schools in China.
Advanced and Specialized Roles: After obtaining experience teaching English in China and abroad, some teachers can sidestep into roles such as curriculum developers, teacher trainers, administrators, and so on. These specialized roles can offer salaries ranging from around $2,000-$4,000 USD per month.
Additional Benefits and Perks for English Teachers in China
Teachers shouldn’t forget that they will typically receive additional benefits and perks for teaching English in China. In addition to the high salary and the soul-nourishing aspects of traveling, teachers can expect a range of benefits such as:
Free accommodation or housing allowance
Reimbursed airfare
Paid holiday
Health insurance
Completion bonus
Cost of Living in China
While the salary may be high, teachers should also consider the cost of living in China. The cost of living will vary from location, with popular cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen posing higher living expenses. While these living expenses are often offset by your teacher salary, you may need to consider your lifestyle if you want to save up money while in China.
Here is a breakdown of some of the average costs for teachers living in China:
Average rent in the city center: $500-$1,000 USD
Average rent outside the city center: $300-$600 USD
One month transportation pass: $30 USD
Gym pass: $40 USD
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $3-$5 USD
A cup of coffee: $3 USD
Beer: $2 USD
Source: Numbeo
How to Increase your Teaching English in China Salary
Whether you’re currently in-country or you’re dreaming of teaching English in China from afar, there are many ways you can increase your earning potential.
Consider these tips to maximize your teaching English in China salary:
Private tutoring: The academic environment is a competitive one in China. Parents want their children to gain any edge possible, and that means taking on additional lessons after school. Depending on your current contract, you may be able to take on additional tutoring to supplement your income.
Upskill: Consider upgrading from your 120 hour online TEFL. During your spare time - or over the summer vacation - consider taking on a higher qualification to impress employers and maximize your teaching English in China salary.
Negotiate: Some schools may be more flexible than others when it comes to negotiating your contract. If you believe that you’re an asset to the ESL classroom, consider negotiating before re-signing your contract.
Compare jobs salaries: Before you dive into the first job you find or blindly agree to extend your current contract, research the market. You can compare the salaries of job offers at others schools to put into perspective whether you’re currently getting the most out of your work.
Maximize your Teaching English in China Salary

Now that you know the various factors that influence your teaching salary in China, you can teach abroad knowing that you’re getting the most of your experience! Teaching is an amazing opportunity, but it can also be demanding and tiring. It’s important to know your worth and boost your earning potential while teaching English in China.
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