How Much Can I Earn As A Foreign Teacher In China in 2025?

In 2025, salaries vary significantly based on location, type of school, and a teacher’s qualifications. Here’s our guide of what you can expect to earn as a foreign teacher in China this year.

PLEASE NOTE: These are pre-tax figures that include housing allowances. These figures are based on internal offers for our teachers and can change with the market.

• Tier 1 Cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen – China's largest, most international cities.
  
  

• Tier 1.5 Cities: Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu, Suzhou – Economically developed but smaller in size.
  
  

• Tier 2 Cities: Wuhan, Xi’an, Qingdao, Changsha – Developing urban centers with growing expat communities.

💰  Don’t Forget!

• PD: Many employers provide Professional Development allowances or training, which contribute to your skills, experience, and competitiveness as a teacher.
  
  

• Bonuses: Contracts often include end-of-year bonuses, flight reimbursement, and visa support.

• Tuition: Some schools will offer free or substantially discounted tuition for a teacher’s dependants, which equals a LOT of money saved.
  
  

• Living Costs: Lower in Tier 1.5 and Tier 2 cities, so even a modest salary can go further.
  
  

• Qualifications: Teachers with advanced degrees, teaching licenses, or IB/AP experience command higher pay.
  
  

Despite a changing market, China still offers competitive packages for foreign teachers in 2025, especially for teachers who are willing to work outside the top-tier cities or who bring strong credentials. Additional benefits, such as housing stipends and bonuses, also increase the overall value of an employment package.

It’s always good to be aware of the market rates and have up-to-date information. Having unrealistic salary expectations may lead to employers not considering you as a serious candidate.