Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 14,200 career/technical education teachers, middle schools, and they earn a median of $63,620/year. The range runs from $47K to $98K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level career/technical education teachers, middle schools start around $47K. The gap between that and the median ($64K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $98K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $101K | 640 |
| Rhode Island | $94K | 40 |
| Connecticut | $82K | 80 |
| Ohio | $81K | 260 |
| Massachusetts | $80K | 50 |
| Illinois | $80K | 160 |
| Minnesota | $78K | 170 |
| New York | $78K | 1,560 |
| Wisconsin | $77K | 630 |
| Pennsylvania | $73K | 930 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a career/technical education teachers, middle school make?▼
The median career/technical education teachers, middle school salary in the United States is $63,620 per year ($0/hour). Entry-level positions start around $47,090, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,430.
What education do you need to become a career/technical education teachers, middle school?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for career/technical education teachers, middle schools?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for career/technical education teachers, middle schools.
What are the highest paying states for career/technical education teachers, middle schools?▼
The highest paying states for career/technical education teachers, middle schools are Washington ($101,340), Rhode Island ($93,590), Connecticut ($81,860), Ohio ($80,910), Massachusetts ($80,290). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.