History Teachers, Postsecondary: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 19,860 history teachers, postsecondarys, and they earn a median of $81,500/year. The range runs from $48K to $158K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level history teachers, postsecondarys start around $48K. The gap between that and the median ($82K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $158K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| California | $121K | 1,680 |
| New Hampshire | $107K | 110 |
| Rhode Island | $106K | 150 |
| Arizona | $102K | 170 |
| New York | $101K | 1,780 |
| Massachusetts | $101K | 850 |
| New Jersey | $100K | 640 |
| Connecticut | $100K | 330 |
| Oregon | $98K | 170 |
| Montana | $93K | 60 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a history teachers, postsecondary make?▼
The median history teachers, postsecondary salary in the United States is $81,500 per year ($0/hour). Entry-level positions start around $47,730, while experienced professionals earn up to $158,140.
What education do you need to become a history teachers, postsecondary?▼
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 history teachers, postsecondarys?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for history teachers, postsecondarys.
What are the highest paying states for history teachers, postsecondarys?▼
The highest paying states for history teachers, postsecondarys are California ($121,020), New Hampshire ($106,810), Rhode Island ($106,240), Arizona ($101,510), New York ($101,180). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.