School Bus Monitors: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 72,140 school bus monitors, and they earn a median of $34,980/year. The range runs from $27K to $43K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level school bus monitors start around $27K. The gap between that and the median ($35K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $43K, 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 | $42K | 490 |
| Minnesota | $40K | 1,110 |
| Hawaii | $40K | 160 |
| California | $39K | 1,480 |
| Wyoming | $39K | 300 |
| Oregon | $38K | 450 |
| Delaware | $38K | 250 |
| Utah | $38K | 310 |
| Vermont | $37K | 90 |
| Wisconsin | $37K | 320 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a school bus monitors make?▼
The median school bus monitors salary in the United States is $34,980 per year ($17/hour). Entry-level positions start around $27,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $43,240.
What education do you need to become a school bus monitors?▼
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 school bus monitors?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for school bus monitors.
What are the highest paying states for school bus monitors?▼
The highest paying states for school bus monitors are Washington ($41,720), Minnesota ($40,000), Hawaii ($39,820), California ($39,190), Wyoming ($38,790). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.