Full breakdown of elementary, secondary, and college teacher salaries across Canada with take-home pay calculations.
Teaching remains one of Canada's most stable professional careers, with salaries negotiated through provincial collective agreements. Teachers receive defined-benefit pensions, summers off, and comprehensive benefits — making total compensation substantially higher than base salary suggests.
| Role | Annual Salary Range | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Teacher | $52,000 – $100,000 | $78,000 |
| Secondary Teacher | $55,000 – $105,000 | $83,000 |
| College/CEGEP Instructor | $62,000 – $110,000 | $88,000 |
| Special Education Teacher | $58,000 – $102,000 | $82,000 |
| Vice-Principal | $95,000 – $130,000 | $112,000 |
| Principal | $110,000 – $150,000 | $128,000 |
Each province sets its own salary grid for teachers. Salaries typically progress based on years of experience and education level (B.Ed., M.Ed., etc.).
| Province | Average Teacher Salary | Est. Take-Home (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $96,000 | $6,020 |
| British Columbia | $90,000 | $5,610 |
| Ontario | $92,000 | $5,710 |
| Quebec | $72,000 | $4,280 |
| Saskatchewan | $79,000 | $4,930 |
| Manitoba | $76,000 | $4,720 |
| Nova Scotia | $71,000 | $4,380 |
| New Brunswick | $68,000 | $4,190 |
Estimated Annual Take-Home Pay:
An Ontario teacher earning $90,000 in 2026 faces the following approximate deductions:
| Deduction | Amount |
|---|---|
| Federal Income Tax | ~$14,200 |
| Ontario Provincial Tax | ~$7,100 |
| CPP Contributions | ~$3,800 |
| EI Premiums | ~$1,049 |
| Ontario Teachers' Pension (approx.) | ~$7,000 |
| Take-Home (excl. pension) | ~$63,850/yr ($5,320/mo) |
Note: Ontario Teachers' Pension deductions vary by salary. The pension is an employer-matched benefit worth significantly more than the employee contribution — factor this into your total compensation.
In most provinces, teachers with a master's degree earn $5,000–$12,000 more annually due to higher grid placement. Many boards offer tuition reimbursement — check your collective agreement.
Teachers with defined-benefit pensions have a Pension Adjustment (PA) that reduces RRSP room. Most teachers have $5,000–$12,000 of RRSP contribution room per year despite the pension. Use it to reduce current taxes.
Because pension income is taxable in retirement, building a TFSA alongside your pension provides tax-free income flexibility. Maximize your $7,000/year annual TFSA contribution.
Union dues, professional development courses, and classroom supply expenses not reimbursed by your board may be deductible. Keep all receipts.
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