Highest Paying Countries for Teaching English Abroad in 2026

Curious how much you can earn as an English teacher abroad? Depending on the country and your prior teaching experience and qualifications, you can be earning anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000 USD per month! Many of the highest-paid English teaching jobs can be found in the Middle East and Asia, though it varies by region. 

However,  salary isn't the only variable for a financially rewarding job teaching abroad. While some jobs will offer other benefits like a furnished apartment, flight reimbursements, and health insurance, you should also take into consideration the cost of living.

Read on for the highest paying countries for teaching English abroad!

• Average ESL teacher salary: $3,500-$5,500 USD/month
• Average cost of living: $1,200-$1,900 per month
• Typical job requirements: Experience and / or teaching certification from home country

Generally speaking, the highest-paid ESL teaching salaries globally are found in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the two biggest cities in the UAE. Salary packages here can range between $3,500-$5,500 USD (12,300-22,000 AED) per month, depending on experience. However, like most Middle Eastern countries, the requirements are stringent, and most jobs require teachers to be certified to teach in their home countries or at least have several years of teaching experience. 

Additionally, while highly experienced teachers can make a salary around - or even above - $6,000 USD per month, the average teacher is making much closer to 16,000 AED ($4,350). TEFL teachers can also expect extensive benefits including a housing allowance, relocation allowance, flights home, and government health care. Plus, your salary will most likely be tax-free! 

Read more:

• Guide to Teaching Jobs in UAE
• How to Get a Job Teaching English in Dubai
• What Salary Will You Earn Teaching Abroad in the United Arab Emirates?

• Average ESL teacher salary: $2,200-$4,000 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)
• Cost of living: $1,000 per month
• Typical job requirements: TEFL certificate and experience preferred but not required

The cuisine, snow-capped mountains, springtime cherry blossoms, steaming bowls of noodles, and welcoming people have given teaching in Japan a broad appeal. Plus, salaries in Japan have a range of $2,200-$4,000 (¥220,000-¥610,000) per month, depending on your certifications and prior teaching experience. Some schools may offer additional bonuses such as housing assistance and free flights to their ESL teachers.

Although previous teaching experience isn't necessary, it can be tough to find a position without it since the job market in Japan is extremely competitive. Entry-level teachers often participate in the JET Program, but be sure to consider the alternatives. ESL teachers participating in the JET program average a monthly wage of $2,550 USD (280,000 JPY). Japan has a high cost of living relative to the United States, and a teacher here should expect to pay at least $1,500 USD a month.

Read more:

• The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Japan: Requirements, Salary, & Benefits
• The 5 Best Programs to Teach English in Japan

• Average ESL teacher salary: $2,400-$4,500 USD/month
• Cost of living: $1,000 per month
• Typical job requirements: Bachelor's degree and TEFL certificate; international schools generally require a valid teaching license 

Even thousands of miles away from home, you won't feel so alone with Qatar's lively expat community. This tax-free teaching destination is not only safe for Western professionals, but salaries in Qatar typically range from$2,400-$4,500 USD (9,000 to 16,300 QAR) per month depending on experience. 

ESL teachers in Qatar can also expect extensive benefits packages, often including housing, flights, and the potential for a transportation allowance. Qatar has a lower cost of living relative to the United States, so an ESL teaching salary can go a long way. The generous salary range offers significant room for savings.

• Average ESL teacher salary: $2,600-$4,000 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)
• Cost of living: $1,500 per month
• Typical job requirements: Experience and TEFL certificate 

Due to the high number of international schools, job opportunities are plentiful for English teachers in Kuwait. This vibrant desert city is buzzing and modern, littered with skyscrapers, green parks, clubs, shopping, and a vibrant expat community. 

ESL teacher salaries in Kuwait range from $2,600-$4,000 (785-1,200 KWD) per month, tax-free. Most employers require teacher certification and experience, especially for higher salaries in this range. Kuwait also has a reasonable cost of living, so the quality of life English teachers can experience is high. Combining the low cost of living, a modern city, and a robust salary range makes Kuwait an excellent destination for prospective ESL teachers.

• Average ESL teacher salary: $2,000-$3,500 USD/month (based on experience & credentials)
• Cost of living: $800 per month
• Typical job requirements: TEFL certificate 

Oman is one of the most developed countries in the Arab world, and it has seen rapid advancements in its education system in recent years. Teacher salaries in Oman can range from $2,000-$3,500 (750-1,350 OMR) per month, and with a very low cost of living you'll live comfortably and have plenty of opportunities to expand your savings. Although opportunities to teach English in the country are somewhat limited, it is an excellent opportunity to help develop the ESL field in Oman and earn a competitive salary.

• Average ESL teacher salary: $1,700-$2,650 USD/month (based on job type, experience & credentials)
• Cost of living: $900-$1000 per month
• Typical job requirements: Bachelor's degree; TEFL certificate and experience preferred but not required

English teachers are flocking to South Korea, where the salary for ESL teachers is $1,700-$2,650 (2-3.2 million KRW) per month and often includes housing and complete or partial flight reimbursement. Considering the additional overtime and bonus opportunities, and a lower cost of living, South Korea is one of the best destinations for teaching abroad. A minimum of a TEFL certificate and bachelor’s degree is generally required to teach English in Korea, especially for the EPIK program. 

Read more:

• The Best Opportunities to Teach Abroad in South Korea
• How to Get a Job Teaching English in South Korea

• Average ESL teacher salary: $2,000-$3,000 USD/month (based on hourly wage, experience & credentials)
• Cost of living: $1,000 per month
• Typical job requirements: Bachelor's degree 

Similar to ESL salaries in Korea, the salaries in Taiwan range from $2,000-$3,000 (60,000-90,000 TWD) per month, with an even lower cost of living, milder winters, and lively, tropical summers. Saving money can be very easy, and ESL teaching jobs are available across the board. You can find jobs from kindergarten to university-level, and roles in both public and private schools. Many ESL teachers in Taiwan find it possible to save at least $1,000 a month! 

TEFL certification isn't a legal requirement, but most schools will require one. Additionally, applicants will need a bachelor's degree (or, in a few cases, an associate's degree) and will have to pass a background check to get a teaching job in Taiwan.

• Average ESL teacher salary: $1,400-$4,500 USD/month
• Cost of living: $1,000 per month
• Typical job requirements: Bachelor's degree 

With a high demand for teachers, generous benefits packages and low cost of living, China is one of the most popular locations for both culturally and financially driven TEFL teachers. As a significant player in international trade and politics, the demand for English speakers is high, creating an abundance of opportunities for TEFL teachers.  

China does require ESL teachers to obtain a TEFL certification and a bachelor's degree. Among the benefits, TEFL teachers often receive free housing, flight reimbursement, health insurance, a completion bonus, and more. Many of the employment packages available in China include a TEFL certification course, adding to the benefits of choosing China as your destination to teach English abroad. 

Read more:

• The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in China
• 10 Insider Tips for Teaching English in China

• Average ESL teacher salary: $1,200-$2,100 USD/month (based on experience & credentials)
• Cost of living: $700 per month
• Typical requirements: Bachelor's degree and TEFL certificate 

While salaries here aren't as high for ESL teachers as other countries on the list, Vietnam has a much lower cost of living than most. Ranging from $1,200-$2,100 per month (27,000,000-48,000,000 VND), you can stand to save a good bit if you don't splurge on extravagant housing. 

Vietnam isn't the most popular option in Asia for ESL teachers, but it's an incredibly beautiful and friendly country with a lot to offer. Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon have many modern amenities and thriving international communities. Regional travel is affordable so making low-cost Vietnam your home base is a great choice for teachers interested in exploring Asia. 

Read more: How to Get a Teaching Job in Vietnam

Did you know that you can earn money teaching English online? If you're thinking about teaching English abroad, but want to test the waters, teaching English online is an excellen way to see if it's right for you. As with most professions, teaching certifications plus prior experience will help you significantly raise your salary. Urban centers and towns or cities with a high international student population tend to have more teaching opportunities and better wages - though they might also have a higher overall cost of living. 

Teaching English online is also a great way to gain experience, connect with an international community, and save money, all while maintaining maximum flexibility. Salaries vary widely, but you can expect to earn between $10-$25 per hour depending on your experience, qualifications, and student demographic. 

Read more: The 11 Best Companies for Teaching English Online

The TEFL salary for each country will range considerably due to a number of factors, like experience and qualifications. Inexperienced teachers, especially those without any TEFL or teaching certification, should expect a salary on the lower end. Those with several years of experience, a relevant degree, and a TEFL certification will be able to make more - regardless of destination. 

A TEFL certificate is highly recommended for anyone interested in teaching English abroad. It'll prepare you for the classroom and help you provide students with a highly valuable experience. Additionally, many TEFL programs will help you find a job in the country you get certified. You may also want to consider gaining skills in teaching test preparation. This could lead to salary increases, more job opportunities, or the possibility of added income from outside tutoring.

Teaching English abroad is a great way to pay off student loans, travel, save money, add to your skillset, and immerse yourself in a new culture. With contracts that range from 6 months to 2 years, it’s possible to cater your experience to suit your needs. Remember that the job and visa requirements for teaching in different countries are constantly changing. With a little bit of luck and research, you can earn both a good wage and an unforgettable life experience!

Read more about teaching English abroad:

• Can You Really Teach English Abroad and Get Free Housing & Airfare? Here's What to Know
• Travel and Save Money: Ultimate Guide to Budgeting as a TEFL Teacher Abroad
• How to Get Started Teaching English Abroad