Teacher Salaries in New Jersey: What You Need to Know

New Jersey, the “Garden State,” is known for a little bit of everything — the shore, the cities of Newark and Camden, and rolling farmland in between. There are 2,506 schools in New Jersey, according to the state department of education, and the cost of living in New Jersey is higher than the U.S. average. 

So, what does this mean for teacher salaries? How much do teachers in New Jersey earn, and how can Garden State teachers advance their salaries along with their careers? 

Starting Teacher Salary in New Jersey   

The average starting teacher salary in New Jersey is $57,603, according to the National Education Association. That’s the fourth-highest rate in the country, per the NEA, meaning only three U.S. states have a higher starting salary for teachers.

However, in New Jersey, that starting teacher salary is still $27,526 lower than the state’s minimum living wage (again, based on NEA data). This means that as teachers get established in their careers, they will need to be aware of managing their budgets within a higher cost-of-living state.

Average Teacher Salary in New Jersey 

The average teacher salary in New Jersey for all experience levels is $82,877, No. 8 in the nation, according to the NEA. That salary is much closer to the minimum living wage in the state, which is $85,129 — but it’s still just over $2,000 short. 

It’s important to note that these are averages, and specific teacher salaries will vary by district, education, experience level, title, and other factors. Teachers in New Jersey do receive benefits including health and dental, and enrollment in the state pension program.

Average Teacher Salary in New Jersey vs. the National Average  

On average, teachers in New Jersey are paid more than the national average. The national average teacher salary is $46,526 for starting teachers and $72,030 for teachers at all experience levels. 

For starting teachers in New Jersey, their average salary is $11,077 higher than the nationwide figure.  

For all experience levels, New Jersey teachers are earning an average of $10,847 more. 

Again, exact figures will vary from district to district across the state, and those gains may be offset by the higher cost of living.  

Variation in Teacher Salaries Across New Jersey 

Teacher salaries in New Jersey vary from district to district. The differences in teacher salaries reflect local tax revenue and funding sources. For example, according to Indeed, teachers in Camden can earn $127,701 per year and teachers in Newark also earn higher salaries ($79,417). By contrast, teachers in Union City ($42,691) and Lakewood ($37,681) list lower salaries. 

Factors Influencing Teacher Salaries in New Jersey  

Several key factors influence teacher salaries in New Jersey, including:  

• Regional differences: Some areas of New Jersey, like those close to New York City or other urban centers, are more expensive than others. This means that while teacher salaries may be higher, they also may not guarantee a higher quality of living.
• Education level: Teachers with higher credentials, such as a master’s degree or National Board Certification, move up “steps” in the district pay matrix and earn higher salaries.
• Years of experience: As teachers garner years of experience, they move up the district pay matrix. For example, in Newark, a teacher moves up $250 to $500 per year as they advance through the steps.
• Specialty areas: Teachers who fill high-need areas, such as special education or STEM, may receive additional pay.
• Collective bargaining: The New Jersey Education Association has a presence in New Jersey. Areas with strong unions typically have higher pay rates than areas without strong unions.  

Advancing Beyond Average Teacher Salary in New Jersey 

New Jersey teachers have various options to increase their earnings and advance their careers:  

• Earn additional certifications or advanced degrees: Earning a Master’s in Education or becoming National Board Certified can boost a teacher’s salary and expand career opportunities.
• Pursue leadership positions: A role such as instructional coach, grade-level chair, or department head can come with additional pay. Moreland University’s Master’s in Educational Leadership provides teachers with the credential and skills to advance into leadership roles. 
• Advance to a Standard Certificate: Teachers with a Standard Certificate will typically earn more than those with a Provisional Certificate (not to mention the job stability and increased career options that come with a Standard Certificate). Programs like Moreland’s 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program support teachers who are seeking to advance their certification in a short amount of time, while working full-time.
• Take on additional responsibilities: Within a school, teachers who take on additional responsibilities, such as mentoring, coaching, or leading after-school activities, can increase their total compensation through extra-curricular stipends.
• Pick up summer school or additional classes: Teachers can earn additional money by teaching summer school or covering extra classes.  

Budget and Funding Factors in New Jersey 

In New Jersey, schools are funded overwhelmingly through state and local taxes. Only 7.7% of school funding comes from the federal government. This means that teacher salaries are decided at the local level and set by the district. Federal aid that is added to district budgets typically supports teacher compensation in Title 1 schools, special education, and federal programs that are implemented at the local level.  

Grow Your New Jersey Teaching Salary with Moreland University 

Whether you’re just beginning your teaching career in New Jersey or are ready to advance to the next level, Moreland University provides the expertise and flexibility to help you succeed. 

You could earn your teaching certification in as little as 9 months with Moreland or your certification plus an M.Ed. in as little as 12 months. Our programs are fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.   

Ready to take the next step? Apply for free today (takes less than 15 minutes), and you‘ll hear back within 2 business days.