Are you looking for a rewarding and stable career as an English teacher in the United States? Whether you want to work in a school, teach English online from home, or find part-time opportunities, there are thousands of English teacher jobs available right now. With the right qualifications and guidance, you can begin teaching today and help students learn a skill that opens doors worldwide.
Where Can I Find English Teacher Jobs in the USA?
Finding English teacher jobs in the USA is easier than ever, thanks to online job boards, school district websites, and education-focused hiring platforms. Many public and private schools are constantly searching for qualified English teachers for elementary, middle, and high school students. Major platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and TeachAway list thousands of English teacher openings each month.
Additionally, large school districts like New York City Public Schools, Los Angeles Unified School District, Chicago Public Schools, and others frequently post job openings. These districts often offer competitive salaries, benefits, and ongoing training opportunities. For those interested in private schools or charter schools, websites like National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and EdJoin are great resources.
Don’t forget about rural areas and underserved communities—they’re often in high demand for English teachers and may offer relocation incentives, signing bonuses, or student loan forgiveness programs. So if you’re flexible with your location, you can increase your chances of getting hired fast.
How Much Do English Teachers Make in the USA?
The salary for English teachers in the USA varies depending on location, level of experience, education, and the type of institution. On average:
- Elementary and middle school English teachers earn between $45,000 and $68,000 per year.
- High school English teachers often earn $50,000 to $72,000 annually, with those in large cities or districts sometimes earning upwards of $80,000.
- College-level English instructors or lecturers can earn between $55,000 and $100,000, depending on the institution and qualifications.
Online English teaching jobs usually offer hourly pay ranging from $15 to $30, depending on the company and your teaching credentials. Many teachers supplement their income by teaching online part-time.
Additional benefits may include health insurance, retirement plans, paid holidays, and even housing stipends for teachers in high-demand areas.
What Do You Need to Become an English Teacher?
To become an English teacher in the USA, you typically need a combination of education, certification, and sometimes experience. The requirements vary by state, but here’s a general overview.
Do You Need a College Degree?
Yes, in most cases, you need at least a Bachelor’s degree in English, Education, or a related field. Some states allow alternative certification routes for individuals who hold a degree in another subject. These alternative pathways may involve completing a teacher preparation program and passing a series of exams.
In private or charter schools, the rules may be more flexible. You might get hired based on your degree and strong communication skills without a formal teaching credential. But for most public schools, a degree and license are non-negotiable.
What is a TEFL Certificate?
A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate is especially useful if you want to teach English to non-native speakers, either in the USA or online. While it’s not mandatory for most public school teaching jobs in the U.S., many online platforms require it.
Some popular TEFL certification providers include International TEFL Academy, Bridge TEFL, and Premier TEFL. The certification typically requires 100 to 120 hours of coursework and can often be completed online. It helps prove that you understand classroom management, lesson planning, and how to teach grammar and vocabulary effectively.
Can I Start Without Experience?
Yes, you can begin a career as an English teacher without prior teaching experience, especially if you hold a degree and certification. Many schools are open to hiring new teachers, especially in high-need areas. Additionally, online teaching jobs, especially for kids or adults learning English as a second language, are open to beginners.
Entry-level positions often offer support and mentorship programs to help you grow. Volunteering, tutoring, or working as a substitute teacher are excellent ways to gain experience if you’re starting from scratch.
Best Places to Teach English in the USA
Some regions in the U.S. are more competitive or more rewarding than others when it comes to English teaching opportunities. Here’s where English teacher jobs are booming:
- New York, California, and Texas – These states have a large student population, diverse classrooms, and strong demand for certified teachers.
- Florida and Arizona – These states are always looking for English teachers due to high student enrollment and teacher shortages.
- Rural areas in the Midwest and South – These areas often offer bonuses and other benefits to attract teachers.
- Washington D.C., Massachusetts, and Illinois – Known for excellent education systems and competitive teacher salaries.
Each state has its own certification requirements, so check with the state Department of Education where you plan to apply.
Online English Teacher Jobs – Work From Home!
Teaching English online is one of the most flexible and fast-growing job options in the education industry. Whether you want a full-time career or a part-time side hustle, online English teacher jobs offer the freedom to work from home and set your schedule.
Many companies connect teachers in the U.S. with students around the world, particularly in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. All you need is a computer, stable internet, a webcam, and a headset. Some jobs require a degree and TEFL certification, while others are more flexible.
The biggest benefits of online teaching include:
- No commute – Work from anywhere.
- Flexible hours – Teach mornings, evenings, or weekends.
- Quick start – Many platforms allow you to start in just a few weeks.
- Global impact – Help students worldwide improve their English skills.
Top Companies Hiring Online Teachers
If you want to teach English online, here are some of the top companies hiring right now:
- Cambly – No degree or experience required. Pays $10–12/hour.
- VIPKid – Popular with U.S. teachers (Note: Currently paused U.S.-China operations).
- Preply – Set your own rate and schedule.
- iTalki – One-on-one tutoring; you create your own teaching profile.
- Outschool – Teaches not just English but other subjects too.
- EF Education First – Offers structured lesson plans for kids and adults.
Do I Need to Speak Another Language?
No, you don’t need to speak another language to teach English. Most jobs—especially online platforms—use English immersion, meaning you’ll speak only English with your students. However, knowing another language can sometimes help you connect better with learners or get specialized teaching roles.
Part-Time English Teacher Jobs
Many English teachers work part-time, especially in after-school programs, tutoring centers, or online. Part-time roles are perfect for:
- Retired teachers
- Stay-at-home parents
- College students
- Freelancers
You can also work evenings and weekends or tutor individuals one-on-one to earn extra income while building your experience.
English Teacher Jobs With No Experience
If you’re new to teaching, don’t worry. Many schools and online platforms welcome enthusiastic new teachers. To improve your chances:
- Get a TEFL certificate.
- Volunteer or work as a tutor.
- Substitute teach to gain classroom experience.
Highlight soft skills like patience, clear communication, and adaptability on your resume.
Tips to Get Hired Fast as an English Teacher
Want to get hired quickly? Here are some practical tips:
- Customize your resume for each job. Focus on your communication skills, education, and any teaching or tutoring experience.
- Get certified. A TEFL or teaching license makes a big difference.
- Apply broadly – Don’t limit yourself to one type of job or company.
- Be interview-ready. Practice common questions and demonstrate your teaching style.
- Build a professional online presence. Platforms like Preply and iTalki let you upload videos to attract students.
The Bottom Line
English teacher jobs in the USA are in high demand, whether in-person or online. With the right education, certifications, and preparation, you can start your teaching journey today. From full-time positions in schools to flexible remote teaching gigs, there’s a path for everyone—new graduates, career changers, and even retirees.
Explore opportunities in your city or teach from home online. No matter where you begin, teaching English is a rewarding and impactful career. Help others improve their language skills—and change lives—while building a future for yourself.
