Elementary School Teacher in High Point, NC

The Salary Picture: Where High Point Stands

As a local who’s watched this city’s job market for years, I can tell you that High Point offers a solid, if not spectacular, financial package for elementary school teachers. The numbers tell a clear story: the median salary for an Elementary School Teacher here is $62,275/year, which breaks down to a handy $29.94/hour. While that’s slightly below the national average of $63,670/year, the trade-off is High Point’s lower cost of living. With a cost of living index of 92.7 (where the U.S. average is 100), your paycheck stretches further here than in many other metro areas.

Let’s break down what you can expect to earn based on experience and certification level. Remember, these are estimated ranges based on the local median and state salary schedules.

Experience-Level Breakdown for Elementary School Teachers in High Point, NC

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Typical Certification
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$48,000 - $55,000	Initial Residency License
Mid-Career (4-10 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	Professional License
Senior/Lead (11-20 years)	$65,000 - $75,000	Master's + National Board Cert.
Expert/Admin (20+ years)	$70,000 - $85,000	Specialist Roles, Department Head

When you compare High Point to other North Carolina cities, its position is clear. It pays similarly to nearby Greensboro but less than the tech- and finance-driven hubs of Raleigh and Charlotte. For a teacher, this can be a sweet spot: a manageable commute, a strong sense of community, and a salary that, when paired with the local cost of living, allows for a comfortable lifestyle.

High Point vs. Other NC Cities (Median Teacher Salary)

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Jobs in Metro (Est.)
High Point	$62,275	92.7	581
Greensboro	$61,800	91.5	~1,500
Raleigh	$68,500	103.2	~3,000
Charlotte	$66,000	101.5	~4,500
Winston-Salem	$60,500	90.8	~800

Note: Salary data is pulled from BLS and state education department reports. Job counts are estimates for the metro area.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth for this field in our metro is a modest 1%. This isn’t a high-growth field, but it’s also not shrinking. Stability is the key word here. With 581 jobs in the metro area, there’s consistent turnover due to retirements and relocations, which creates openings for new hires.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. A salary of $62,275 is a solid starting point, but what does it mean after Uncle Sam and your landlord get their share? Here’s a detailed monthly breakdown for a typical single filer with no dependents (using standard 2024 tax estimates for NC).

• Gross Monthly Pay: $5,189.58
• Estimated Taxes (Federal + State + FICA): ~$1,150
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$4,040

Now, let’s layer in the rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in High Point rents for $1,042/month. This leaves you with a comfortable $2,998 for all other living expenses.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Teacher, $62,275 Salary)

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,042	Varies by neighborhood
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water)	$150	Average for a 700 sq ft apartment
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Assumes a modest used car
Groceries & Household	$400	For one person
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$250	Varies by plan
Student Loan Payment	$200	Assumed average debt
Retirement Savings (403b)	$200	3% match from employer
Discretionary/Other	$408	Entertainment, savings, etc.

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, but likely not immediately as a single earner. With a strong credit score and a 20% down payment, a teacher earning the median salary could comfortably afford a home in the $200,000 - $250,000 range. High Point has a healthy stock of starter homes in established neighborhoods like Jamestown and Westerly Downs. The key is getting your finances in order during your first few years of renting.

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Where the Jobs Are: High Point's Major Employers

High Point’s school system is the primary employer, but the educational landscape here is diverse. Understanding the different employers will help you target your job search effectively.

1. High Point Schools (Guilford County Schools): This is your main opportunity. Guilford County Schools (GCS) is the district, with High Point schools operating under its umbrella. They serve over 70,000 students across 125 schools. Hiring is driven by the academic calendar, with the main hiring wave from April to August. GCS offers a competitive benefits package and a structured salary schedule based on education and experience.

2. Thomasville City Schools: Located just west of High Point, this is a smaller, independent district. It can be a great fit for teachers who prefer a tighter-knit community feel. Commute from most High Point neighborhoods is easy. They often have openings in their elementary schools, and the application process can be more personal.

3. Private and Charter Schools: High Point has a growing number of alternatives. High Point Christian Academy and Wesleyan Christian Academy are large, well-established private schools. There are also charter options like Summerfield Charter Academy (a short drive away). These schools often offer more classroom autonomy but may have different pay scales and benefits compared to public districts.

4. High Point University (HPU): While not a direct K-12 employer, HPU is a major local institution with a strong School of Education. They are a key partner for professional development and often host job fairs. Some teachers find part-time roles or adjunct positions here, which can supplement their income.

5. Local Daycares and Early Learning Centers: For those with an early childhood education background, centers like the High Point Community Center or private facilities like Primrose School are consistent employers. While not an elementary school role, it’s a related field with steady demand.

Hiring Trends: The market is stable. The need is greatest in Title I schools (those with higher percentages of students from low-income families), which often come with additional financial incentives for teachers. Due to the modest 1% growth, networking is crucial. Attend local educator job fairs and connect with principals on LinkedIn.

Insider Tip: Many teachers in High Point live in one part of the city but work in another. The district is large, so your commute will depend on your specific school placement. Always ask about carpooling options during the interview process.

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Getting Licensed in NC

North Carolina has a clear, but multi-step, process for teacher licensure. It’s essential to start this process early, as it can take several months.

1. Complete Your Education: You must have at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably with an elementary education program.
2. Pass Required Exams: You’ll need to pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (or meet exemption criteria) and the Praxis II Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects exam. Insider Tip: The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) provides free Praxis prep workshops. Use them!
3. Apply for a License: Apply through the NCDPI Licensure Portal. You’ll start with an Initial Residency License if you’re new to the state. This license is valid for three years while you work under a mentor.
4. Costs: Budget around $200 - $300 for exam fees. The initial licensure application fee is $70. You may also need to pay for a background check (~$45).
5. Timeline: The entire process, from exam prep to a full professional license, can take 6-12 months. Start studying for the Praxis at least 3-6 months before you plan to apply.

Reciprocity: If you’re already licensed in another state, North Carolina offers reciprocity, but you’ll still need to apply for a NC license and may need to take additional courses or exams depending on your home state’s requirements.

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Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Choosing where to live in High Point involves balancing commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here are four neighborhoods to consider, each with a distinct feel.

1. Jamestown (Southwest High Point): This is a classic, family-friendly suburb with tree-lined streets and established homes. It’s close to major employers like HPU and has a quick commute to most schools. Rent here is slightly above the city average.

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to most schools.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,100 - $1,250/month
   • Vibe: Quiet, suburban, great for young families.

2. Downtown High Point: If you want an urban, walkable lifestyle, downtown is the place. It’s experiencing a renaissance with new restaurants, apartments, and the renovated High Point Market. It’s ideal for teachers who want to be close to the arts and social scene.

   • Commute: 5-15 minutes by car; some schools are within walking distance.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,000 - $1,300/month (for modern apartments)
   • Vibe: Vibrant, trendy, social.

3. Westerly Downs (East High Point): This area offers a mix of affordable single-family homes and apartments. It’s a residential heartland with easy access to I-85, making commutes to schools in other parts of the metro (like Greensboro) straightforward.

   • Commute: 10-20 minutes.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $900 - $1,050/month
   • Vibe: Practical, convenient, diverse.

4. Oak Hollow (South High Point): Known for its proximity to the Piedmont Triad International Airport and the Oak Hollow Mall area. It has a range of apartment complexes and is a major hub for retail and services. The commute to schools is generally easy via main arteries.

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $950 - $1,100/month
   • Vibe: Busy, convenient, commercial.

Insider Tip: Before signing a lease, drive the commute to your potential school from a prospective apartment at 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Traffic patterns can be deceptive, especially around the I-40/I-85 interchange.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

While the 10-year job growth is only 1%, advancement is still possible through specialization and additional credentials. The salary schedule for Guilford County Schools rewards education and national board certification, not just years of service.

• Specialty Premiums: Teachers with certifications in Special Education, ESL (English as a Second Language), or STEM are often in higher demand and may receive stipends or priority in hiring. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT) earn a significant annual bonus (often $5,000 - $7,000 in NC) on top of their base salary.
• Advancement Paths: The traditional path is to move from Classroom Teacher to Instructional Coach, Department Head, or eventually into administration (Assistant Principal, Principal). These roles require a Master’s degree in Education Administration and come with a substantial pay increase, often into the $80,000+ range.
• 10-Year Outlook: The outlook is one of stability, not rapid growth. The main driver of openings will be retirements from the aging teaching workforce. Salaries are expected to keep pace with inflation, but major jumps are tied to systemic policy changes. Investing in a Master’s degree or NBCT certification over the next decade is the most reliable way to increase your earning potential.

Insider Tip: High Point’s close proximity to three major universities (UNC-Greensboro, NC A&T, and High Point University) means there are endless opportunities for continuing education. Many teachers earn their Master’s part-time while working, with the district often offering tuition reimbursement.

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The Verdict: Is High Point Right for You?

After diving into the data and the local landscape, here’s the final assessment.

Pros and Cons of Teaching in High Point, NC

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $62,275 salary goes much further here than in larger metros.	Slower Salary Growth: The 10-year job growth of 1% means advancement can be slow.
Strong Community Feel: High Point has a distinct identity and a tight-knit educational community.	Smaller Job Market: With only 581 jobs in the metro, you may have fewer choices than in a major city.
Central Location: Easy access to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte for weekend trips.	Dependence on Guilford County: Most opportunities are with one district, limiting options.
Stable Employment: Public school teaching offers strong job security and benefits.	Car-Dependent: Most neighborhoods require a car for commuting and errands.
Lower Stress Commutes: Compared to big cities, your drive to work is manageable.	Limited Cultural Diversity: While improving, the city is less diverse than Raleigh or Charlotte.

Final Recommendation:
High Point is an excellent choice for an elementary school teacher who values affordability, community, and stability over rapid career growth or a bustling urban scene. It’s ideal for a mid-career professional looking to buy a home or a new teacher wanting to build experience without being overwhelmed by a high cost of living. If you’re seeking a fast-paced, high-growth environment or a deep pool of specialized teaching roles, you might look toward Raleigh. But if you want a place where you can build a fulfilling career and a comfortable life, High Point deserves your serious consideration.

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FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market in High Point?
The market is stable but not overly competitive. With 581 jobs in the metro, there are consistent openings, especially in the spring and summer. Having a North Carolina license and being flexible about school placement will give you a significant edge. Networking with principals at local schools can make a big difference.

2. What’s the best way to find a teaching job in High Point?
Start with the Guilford County Schools and Thomasville City Schools job portals. Also, check the websites of private and charter schools. The NCDPI site has a statewide job board. Attend the job fairs hosted by High Point University and UNC-Greensboro’s School of Education in the spring.

3. How does the cost of living really feel on a teacher’s salary?
It’s very manageable. The median salary of $62,275 combined with an average rent of $1,042 means housing costs are well within the recommended 30% of income. You’ll have a solid budget for groceries, utilities, and discretionary spending, with room to save for a home or retirement if you budget wisely.

4. Are there opportunities for side income or summer work?
Absolutely. Many teachers tutor locally or work at summer camps like those run by the High Point Parks and Recreation department. The High Point Market (a major furniture trade show) also hires seasonal staff. Some teachers also work part-time at HPU or local community colleges.

5. What’s the most important thing to know before moving here?
Be prepared for the car-centric lifestyle. While downtown is walkable, your school placement and daily errands will require a reliable vehicle. Also, embrace the local culture—it’s a city proud of its history, its universities, and its community events. Getting involved locally will make your transition seamless.