Average Teacher Salary in Europe: Country-by-Country Guide

Teaching is one of the most globally transferable professions, and Europe offers a wide range of opportunities — from international schools to state systems actively recruiting from abroad.

Switzerland

Swiss secondary school teachers earn CHF 80,000–110,000 (€84,000–116,000), making Switzerland Europe's highest-paying country for educators. Fluency in German, French, or Italian is required depending on the canton.

Germany

German state school teachers (Beamte) earn €52,000–€75,000 and benefit from civil servant status (pension, job security). International schools in major cities pay similar rates and often recruit English-first teachers.

Netherlands

Teachers earn €38,000–€60,000 in state schools. The Netherlands has a significant teacher shortage — the government has been actively recruiting from Spain, Portugal, and beyond.

Spain

State school teachers in Spain earn €28,000–€42,000, while private international schools can pay up to €50,000–€65,000. TEFL-qualified teachers from the UK or US can enter via British/American school networks.