Massachusetts: education overview
Average teacher salary $93,554 (2024-25), #5 of 51. Source
Public vs private schools
| Public | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Schools | 1,837 | 660 |
| Students | 915,932 | 118,600 |
| Share of students | 89% | 11% |
Latest federal counts; public and private figures come from different school years, so the share is approximate.
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
Students, teachers, districts
- Public school districts
- 322
- Public school teachers (full-time equivalent)
- 76,978
- Public school students
- 915,932
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
How teacher pay is structured
Municipal K–12 systems normally use one teacher schedule, but some towns run elementary districts while separate regional districts operate secondary grades; regional vocational districts are additional separate employers. Salary schedules are generally collectively bargained locally, with no statewide step schedule; the legacy statutory minimum is far below prevailing negotiated pay.
Separate high school districts: someStatewide salary schedule: minimumSource
For prospective educators
You'd be a good fit if you want top-tier pay, strong unions, and many town districts — some with separate regional high schools — to choose from.
A general summary, not advice. Pay and conditions vary by district.