What Is The Average Teaching Salary In China?

With an estimated 400 million English language learners and 1 million English language teachers, it’s no surprise that teaching English as a Foreign Language in China is popular with TEFL graduates. 

Read more: Teach English in China

But one main question still is, what is the average salary in China?

It’s not only the job market that attracts teachers to this country, though. China is a country of extremes, and that’s what makes it fascinating. It boasts some of the world’s tallest buildings, ancient landmarks and futuristic skylines. There are about as many reasons to visit China as people are living there, and that’s a lot!

However, if you’re thinking of teaching English in China, there are a few things you need to consider. 

Culture shock is inevitable, but it’s also part of your new way of life. Life in China is unlike anywhere else, and you’ll quickly notice how different it feels from home.

Before you pack your bags for China, it helps to picture what life there actually looks like. Where will you live, what will you eat, and how will you spend your weekends? And, of course, how much will you be earning?

The average teaching salary in China

The average base salary for ESL teachers in China in 2025 is ¥225,000 ($31,600) a year. That’s about  ¥18,750 a month ($2,635 USD).

Salaries vary significantly depending on:

• Location: Salaries are location-dependent. You’ll earn a higher salary in Tier 1 cities like Shanghai and Beijing than in Tier 3 cities like Hangzhou and Zhuzhuo. 
• Type of school: International schools and kindergartens pay the highest, while private language schools and public schools generally pay on the lower side of the scale
• Teaching credentials: Teachers with just a TEFL certificate earn less than those with additional qualifications, like a Master’s degree, specialised certifications, or several years of experience.

Highly qualified teachers can earn  ¥14,000 to ¥21,000 ($2,500-$3,400).

TTA alumnus and TEFL teacher Joshua taught in Beijing and earned around ¥25,000 ($3,500) a month, which is higher than the average salary.

Read more: Life In A Tier 1 City In China: Beijing

But, it’s better to consider your salary in terms of purchasing power rather than focusing solely on the digits. The salary in a Tier 1 city may be higher, but so is the cost of living. 

You also need to factor in your teaching hours. A lower salary may reflect lower teaching hours. 

If you want to boost your earnings, private tutoring is a popular option, with rates ranging from ¥70 to ¥250 ($10-$35) an hour, but as high as ¥150 to ¥ 250 ($50-$80) an hour in a Tier 1 city.

Read more: Why TEFL Is A Great Online Side Hustle

Cost of living in China

According to Expatistan.com, living in Shanghai is 63% cheaper than in London, and living in Hangzhou is 72% cheaper than in London. 

Benefits of teaching contracts in China

Teaching salaries in China often come with added benefits that make a big difference to your overall pay.

What’s usually covered:

• Flights: Round-trip airfare is standard, though you may be reimbursed for your arrival flight upfront and your departure flight upon contract completion
• Visa: Your work visa (Z visa) will be taken care of and paid for by the school. 
• Housing: This is usually included, either as free accommodation (sometimes on the school premises) or a housing allowance, depending on the city. 
• Meals: Many schools provide lunch (unless you’re at a language school), with some offering breakfast and dinner as well. Some schools provide all three meals.

The cherry on top, though, must be the vacation. 

As a teacher in China, you are given 10 days of paid vacation, but there are 13 national holidays — all paid. As a TEFL teacher in a school, you’ll get a total of three months’ holiday, though any days which are not national holidays may be unpaid. 

Read more: How To Live & Work In China As A Foreigner

So even if you’re earning a very average salary of ¥15,000 and living in Shanghai, you’d still only need to worry about half your meals and your entertainment. If you’re smart, you could save the majority of your salary for travelling during your holidays, of course.

Ultimately, salaries in China can vary, with some teachers bringing in a decent chunk and others a bit less.

Either way, with perks and cheaper day-to-day costs, your pay can stretch further than you’d imagine, and the life you’ll live there is unlike anywhere else.

Author Bio

Written by

Lauren Johnstone

Lauren is a Web Content Writer & Editor for The TEFL Academy with a background in media, film, and education, and a passion for language and learning. A University of Cape Town graduate, she holds a PGCE, is a licensed teacher, and is TEFL-qualified. She has taught English to learners of all ages and levels, both in South African and South Korean classrooms, as well as online. When she’s not writing, she’s likely deep into academic readings or enjoying a well-earned gym session. Read Lauren Johnstone's story →