Teachers have the challenging but rewarding task of teaching tomorrow’s leaders. Besides working in a dynamic environment, teachers have the opportunity to shape lives. The more tangible rewards that come with teaching, including job security, a good salary and an interesting social life, often depend on location. Some cities and states have more to offer than others, so if you don’t have ties to a specific school or location, then it pays to look around.
To help you get started, here is Teaching Community’s list of the best places to teach in the United States.
10. Honolulu, Hawaii
The National Education Association (NES) ranks Hawaii second among all states for starting teacher salary ($43,157) — only New Jersey pays new teachers more. There’s no denying that Hawaii is one of the most beautiful states, which is probably why Honolulu’s unemployment rate remains low. The cost of living can be challenging, but average commute times are short and the beach is nearby for after-school fun. Find out more about how to become a teacher in Hawaii.
9. Denver, Colorado
Nicknamed the ‘Mile High City’ because of its elevated location at the base of the Rocky Mountains, this scenic state capital offers residents a strong economy, mild climate, and diverse neighborhoods, as well as a wide range of cultural events and recreational activities. The Denver Public School System serves about 73,000 students and employs more than 13,000 teachers and staff members. Visit Become a Teacher in Colorado to learn about teacher certification in the state.
8. Portland, Oregon
Portland consistently shows up on lists of best places to live in the West. This bicycle-friendly city is home to more than 1,200 tech companies, including computer chip maker Intel, and to Powell’s City of Books, which claims to be the world’s largest independent bookstore. Portland has seen steady growth in the education sector in the past few years, which is another reason to consider it for a teaching career. Read the requirements for teaching in Portland at Become a Teacher in Oregon.
7. Rochester, New York
Teachers in New York state receive some of the highest salaries in the nation. Rochester, which is the third largest city in the state (behind New York City and Buffalo), has several Fortune 1000 companies among its biggest employers. The city also has a relatively low cost of living and the least expensive real estate prices of any major city in New York. If you’re considering a teaching career in Rochester, visit Become a Teacher in New York.
6. Seattle, Washington
Some of the most prominent corporations in America are headquartered in Seattle, including Microsoft, Amazon and Starbucks. Located on Puget Sound and surrounded by breathtaking mountains, Seattle is one of the most scenic locations in the United States. It’s also one of the most vibrant, with a thriving arts scene, renowned dining and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. With more than 43,000 students in 97 schools and an average teacher salary above $70,000, Seattle might be the perfect place for you to teach. Find out more at Become a Teacher in Washington.
5. Raleigh, North Carolina
The Raleigh metropolitan region is one of the nation’s fastest growing areas and has been ranked as the “Best City to Live” and the “Best Place for Business and Careers” by Forbes. According to Monster’s Teaching Community, North Carolina has been a popular destination for teachers for the past decade. Think you might be interested in relocating to the City of Oaks? Visit Become a Teacher in North Carolina.
4. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
The capital of a state that actively supports quality education, Oklahoma City has recently experienced employment increases in mining, construction and energy exploration. The city offers a busy nightlife scene and a variety of cultural venues as well as rodeos and historic sites that pay tribute to the area’s Western heritage. Click here to learn more about how to become a teacher in Oklahoma.
3. Salt Lake City, Utah
If you want to live in a city that feels more like a small town, consider teaching in Salt Lake City. This family-friendly city attracts entrepreneurs and lovers of the outdoors, and unemployment is below the national average. Sound good to you? Then check out Become a Teacher in Utah.
2. San Antonio, Texas
As the second largest city in Texas, San Antonio has job opportunities in health care, manufacturing and service as well as education. Tourism also plays an important role in the city’s economy. Whether you live in the center of the city or in an outlying rural area, you’ll find good schools that are looking for teachers. The first step is finding out about Texas teacher certification at Become a Teacher in Texas.
1. Austin, Texas
At the top of the list of best cities to teach is Austin, the capital of Texas and home to the largest university in the country. Austin is a technology hub that boasts a thriving local music scene. Forbes named Austin, Texas the “Best City for Job Growth” and the fastest-growing city in America. Teaching opportunities are available within the Austin Independent School District, which employs nearly 6,000 teachers on 128 school campuses. If you’re thinking about teaching in Austin, visit Become a Teacher in Texas.
As you can see, there are many location options for teachers looking for a change of scenery. If you’re considering a career in teaching, our guide to How to Become a Teacher is a great place to start.
