Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding profession that allows individuals to live and work abroad while making a difference in learners’ lives. While many are drawn to the lifestyle and cultural experiences, salary can be a crucial factor for those looking to build savings or support families. Fortunately, there are countries that offer English teachers excellent remuneration, often well above the global average. In this article, we’ll explore the highest TEFL salaries worldwide, examining what each country offers in terms of compensation, benefits, and living standards.
1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Average Monthly Salary: $3,500–$5,500
Top Hiring Locations: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
The UAE is widely regarded as one of the most lucrative TEFL destinations. Teachers working here especially in private international schools, language centres, or government programmes like ADEC are usually highly qualified and experienced. Salaries are tax-free and often come with comprehensive benefits such as free accommodation, annual return flights, medical insurance, and contract completion bonuses.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (often in English or Education)
- TEFL certificate (CELTA preferred)
- At least 2 years of teaching experience
- PGCE or equivalent is often required for public schools
Living Costs: While the UAE’s cities can be expensive, the high salary and housing allowance help offset costs considerably.
2. Saudi Arabia
Average Monthly Salary: $3,000–$4,500
Top Hiring Locations: Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam
Saudi Arabia offers some of the highest TEFL salaries in the world. With strong demand in universities, oil companies, and language institutes, this destination is ideal for teachers looking to maximise their earnings. Benefits are similar to those in the UAE: free housing, flight reimbursement, health insurance, and generous holidays.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- TEFL certificate (CELTA or DELTA preferred)
- 2+ years of experience (often mandatory)
Living Costs: Daily expenses are low, and with limited entertainment options, saving a large portion of one’s salary is achievable.
3. Qatar
Average Monthly Salary: $2,500–$4,500
Top Hiring Locations: Doha, Al Rayyan
Qatar, like its Gulf neighbours, is known for competitive TEFL salaries. English teachers often work in government schools, universities, or international schools. Compensation packages frequently include tax-free income, furnished housing, annual flights, and health insurance.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Education or English)
- TEFL certification (CELTA/DELTA ideal)
- Prior teaching experience (2–3 years minimum)
Living Costs: Doha is relatively expensive, but generous housing allowances mitigate this.
4. Japan
Average Monthly Salary: $2,000–$3,000
Top Hiring Locations: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka
Japan remains one of the most popular TEFL destinations due to its mix of tradition, modernity, and high salaries. Positions in private language schools (eikaiwas), public schools through the JET Programme, and universities offer competitive pay, often with subsidised housing and transport.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- TEFL certificate (not always mandatory for JET)
- Native-level English proficiency
Living Costs: Urban centres can be costly, but many employers help with accommodation and transport expenses.
6. China
Average Monthly Salary: $1,800–$3,500
Top Hiring Locations: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen
China is a vast market for TEFL teachers. While salaries can vary, top-tier international schools and universities offer highly competitive wages, especially in first-tier cities. Packages frequently include free accommodation, flight allowances, bonuses, and medical coverage.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 120-hour TEFL certificate
- Two years’ work experience
- Must pass a criminal background check
Living Costs: Second- and third-tier cities are much cheaper to live in, allowing for greater savings.
7. Vietnam
Average Monthly Salary: $1,500–$2,500
Top Hiring Locations: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang
Vietnam is increasingly becoming a TEFL hotspot due to its low cost of living and decent salary packages. Teachers often work in private language schools or public schools with the opportunity for private tutoring on the side. Benefits sometimes include housing allowances, bonuses, and work permit assistance.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- TEFL certification (120+ hours)
- Native-level English
Living Costs: Vietnam’s affordability makes it possible to live well and still save significantly on a modest salary.
8. Taiwan
Average Monthly Salary: $2,000–$3,000
Top Hiring Locations: Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung
Taiwan offers competitive pay alongside excellent living standards. Teaching positions are found in cram schools (buxibans), public schools, and international schools. Contracts often include airfare, health insurance, and housing stipends.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- TEFL certificate
- Native-level English
Living Costs: Taiwan’s cost of living is lower than Japan and South Korea, allowing for better savings potential.
9. Oman
Average Monthly Salary: $2,000–$3,500
Top Hiring Locations: Muscat, Salalah
Oman offers a quieter Gulf experience with similarly attractive TEFL salaries and benefits. Positions are often available in colleges and universities, with a focus on experienced and qualified teachers. Salaries are tax-free and packages usually include housing, medical insurance, and flights.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (often a Master’s preferred)
- TEFL certification
- 2–3 years’ teaching experience
Living Costs: Cheaper than Dubai or Doha, Oman allows teachers to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and save money.
10. Kazakhstan
Average Monthly Salary: $2,000–$3,000
Top Hiring Locations: Almaty, Nur-Sultan (Astana)
Kazakhstan is an emerging destination offering surprisingly high TEFL salaries, especially in international schools and universities. Packages often include flights, accommodation, and relocation allowances.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- TEFL certificate (CELTA preferred)
- Previous experience often required
Living Costs: Relatively low, enabling a comfortable lifestyle and reasonable savings.
Key Factors That Influence TEFL Salaries
While location is the biggest factor in determining TEFL pay, the following elements also play a crucial role:
- Qualifications: Teachers with CELTA, DELTA, or a PGCE earn higher wages.
- Experience: More years in the classroom can open doors to better-paying positions.
- Type of Institution: International schools and universities offer higher salaries than language centres.
- Location within the Country: Capital cities and economic hubs generally offer more lucrative opportunities.
Tips to Maximise Your TEFL Salary
- Choose High-Paying Countries: Focus on the Middle East and East Asia for the best compensation.
- Upgrade Your Credentials: Consider a CELTA, DELTA, or even a Master’s in TESOL.
- Target International Schools: These institutions pay the most but require strong qualifications.
- Negotiate: Don’t hesitate to ask for housing, bonuses, or higher pay, especially if you’re experienced.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Countries like Spain or Italy offer great culture but modest pay ideal only if money isn’t the primary motivator.
While TEFL can be an enriching experience no matter where you go, the potential to earn a high salary depends significantly on where you teach and how well qualified you are. Countries in the Middle East, East Asia, and certain parts of Central Asia stand out as the best-paying destinations. With careful planning, the right credentials, and a bit of ambition, it’s entirely possible to build a lucrative and fulfilling career teaching English abroad.
