Teacher Salaries in Wyoming: Average Pay & How to Increase Earnings

Wyoming is known for wide open spaces, national parks, and outdoor activities. It’s a mostly rural state with just under six residents per square mile, and it is also one of the top 20 most affordable states in the country, as reported by U.S. News & World Report. 

There are more than 350 public schools in Wyoming, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, along with another 30 private schools. The student-to-teacher ratio is great — 13:1, per the NCES — but how much do teachers earn? What’s the average teacher salary in Wyoming, how does it compare to other states, and how can teachers in the Equality State advance their salaries along with their careers? 

Starting Teacher Salary in Wyoming  

The average starting teacher salary in Wyoming is $50,214, according to the National Education Association. That’s the 12^th highest rate in the country for starting teachers.

Average Teacher Salary in Wyoming 

The average teacher salary for all experience levels in Wyoming is $63,669. That’s No. 28 in the nation and more than $13,000 a year higher than the state’s average salary for starting teachers.  

It’s important to note these are averages, and specific salaries vary from school to school and based on factors like education level, degree type, and experience. Teachers in Wyoming also receive benefits including health and life insurance and are included in the state pension program.

Average Teacher Salary in Wyoming vs. the National Average  

Nationwide, the average starting teacher salary is $46,526, according to the NEA, putting Wyoming teachers ahead by about $3,688. 

For overall teacher salaries — taking into account all experience levels — Wyoming teachers are earning approximately $8,361 less. This is partially offset by the state’s low cost of living, however. And again, these are averages, and specific salaries will vary from district to district.

Variation in Teacher Salaries Across Wyoming 

When it comes to school funding, Wyoming attempts to level the playing field by re-allocating money from wealthy school districts to those with fewer resources. Still, teacher salaries can vary widely from one district to the next.  

According to salaries posted on Indeed, teachers in Sheridan earned upwards of $81,000 per year, while teachers in Cheyenne posted salaries of $62,000 per year, and teachers in Laramie posted salaries in the $51,000 range.  

Factors Influencing Teacher Salaries in Wyoming 

Several key factors influence teacher salaries in Wyoming, including:  

• Regional differences: Some wealthier areas of Wyoming may provide higher teacher salaries than other areas. Though, again, because of state funding policies, the differences in Wyoming might not be as stark as in other states.
• Education level: Teachers with higher credentials, such as a master’s degree or National Board Certification, move up “steps” in the district pay schedule and earn higher salaries. 
• Years of experience: As teachers gain more years of experience, they earn additional pay.  
• Teaching licensure: Educators who have earned their initial or standard teaching license will typically earn more than teachers with a temporary permit.  
• Specialty areas: Teachers who fill high-need areas, such as special education or STEM, may receive additional pay.
• Collective bargaining: Teacher’s unions have a presence in Wyoming, and areas with strong unions typically have higher pay rates than areas without strong unions. 

Advancing Beyond Average Teacher Salary in Wyoming 

Wyoming teachers have multiple 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.  
• Advance to a leadership position: A role such as instructional coach, grade-level chair, or department head can come with additional pay. Moreland’s Master’s in Educational Leadership provides teachers with the skills and credential they need to move into a leadership role.  
• 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 extracurricular stipends. This could also include covering summer school.  

Budget and Funding Factors in Wyoming 

Only 13% of education funding in Wyoming comes from the federal government. The rest is up to the state and local communities. This means that teacher salaries are decided at the local level and set district-by-district. Though, again, Wyoming has specific state policies to balance funding levels among districts.   

Grow Your Wyoming Teaching Salary with Moreland University 

Living in Wyoming means mountain views, national parks in your backyard, and ample time outdoors. For teachers, Wyoming can be a great place to build a career. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance to the next level, Moreland University provides the expertise and flexibility you need. 

You could earn your teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland or your license plus an M.Ed. in as little as 12 months. Moreland’s programs are 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.