Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 104,450 career/technical education teachers, secondary schools, and they earn a median of $63,910/year. The range runs from $49K to $99K. 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, secondary schools start around $49K. The gap between that and the median ($64K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $99K, 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 | $99K | 3,330 |
| Connecticut | $97K | 1,760 |
| District of Columbia | $97K | 110 |
| Massachusetts | $93K | 2,890 |
| Alabama | $85K | 120 |
| California | $82K | 3,420 |
| New Jersey | $81K | 2,370 |
| Maryland | $80K | 450 |
| New York | $80K | 6,260 |
| Oregon | $80K | 340 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a career/technical education teachers, secondary school make?▼
The median career/technical education teachers, secondary school salary in the United States is $63,910 per year ($0/hour). Entry-level positions start around $48,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,720.
What education do you need to become a career/technical education teachers, secondary 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, secondary schools?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for career/technical education teachers, secondary schools.
What are the highest paying states for career/technical education teachers, secondary schools?▼
The highest paying states for career/technical education teachers, secondary schools are Washington ($98,580), Connecticut ($97,020), District of Columbia ($96,710), Massachusetts ($92,600), Alabama ($85,400). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.