Career Guide: Elementary School Teacher in Irving, TX

If you're an elementary school teacher considering a move to Irving, you're looking at a city that’s deeply connected to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex but has its own distinct character. Irving isn’t just a suburb—it’s a major employment hub with a diverse population, a strong public school system, and a cost of living that’s slightly above the national average. This guide breaks down the real-world numbers, local job market, and lifestyle factors you need to make an informed decision.

The Salary Picture: Where Irving Stands

Elementary school teachers in Irving earn a median salary of $64,300/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $30.91/hour. This is slightly above the national average for elementary school teachers, which is $63,670/year. However, the job market is competitive, with approximately 1,271 teaching positions in the metro area. The 10-year job growth is projected at 1%, indicating a stable but slow-growing market.

Here’s how salary breaks down by experience level in Irving:

Experience Level	Annual Salary (Approx.)	Hourly Rate (Approx.)
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$52,000 - $58,000	$25.00 - $27.88
Mid-Career (3-9 years)	$62,000 - $68,000	$29.81 - $32.69
Senior (10-20 years)	$68,000 - $75,000	$32.69 - $36.06
Expert/Leadership (20+ years)	$75,000 - $85,000+	$36.06 - $40.87+

Comparison to Other Texas Cities:

• Dallas: Median salary is slightly higher at $65,500, but cost of living is significantly steeper.
• Fort Worth: Median salary is $62,800, with a more affordable housing market.
• Arlington: Median salary is $63,900, similar to Irving but with a different suburban feel.
• Houston: Median salary is $64,000, but the climate and urban sprawl differ greatly.

Insider Tip: Irving’s teacher salaries are heavily influenced by the Irving Independent School District (IISD) and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD (CFBISD), which covers parts of Irving. CFBISD often pays on the higher end due to its larger tax base. Always check the specific district’s salary schedule before accepting an offer.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. With a median salary of $64,300, your monthly take-home pay after taxes (assuming a single filer with standard deductions) will be approximately $3,900 - $4,100. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Irving is $1,291/month. The Cost of Living Index is 103.3, meaning Irving is 3.3% more expensive than the national average.

Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for an Elementary School Teacher earning $64,300:

Expense Category	Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR average)	$1,291	Can be higher in premium neighborhoods
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$250 - $350	Seasonal variations; summer AC is a factor
Groceries	$350 - $450	Depends on dietary preferences
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	Irving is car-dependent; insurance rates vary
Gas/Transportation	$150 - $250	Commute distances add up
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$200 - $400	District plans vary
Student Loans/Other Debt	$200 - $500	Highly variable
Discretionary/Savings	$500 - $800	Includes dining out, entertainment, retirement
Total	$3,341 - $4,441	Leaves little room for error on a single income

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
The median home price in Irving is approximately $325,000. With a $64,300 salary, a 20% down payment ($65,000) is a significant hurdle. A more realistic path is an FHA loan (3.5% down, ~$11,375) with a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) of around $2,000 - $2,300. This would consume 50-55% of your take-home pay, which is generally not advisable. Most teachers in Irving either live with roommates, have a dual income, or rent long-term.

Insider Tip: Look into teacher-specific down payment assistance programs through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). Some districts also offer local housing partnerships.

The Where the Jobs Are: Irving's Major Employers

The elementary education job market in Irving is dominated by public school districts, with a few charter and private options. Hiring trends show a steady demand for bilingual (Spanish/English) teachers and those with special education certifications.

1. Irving Independent School District (IISD): The largest employer in Irving proper, with over 35,000 students. IISD is known for its diverse student body and strong magnet programs. Hiring is most active in the spring for the following school year. They have a robust teacher residency program for new grads.
2. Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD (CFBISD): While based in Carrollton, CFBISD serves a significant portion of northern Irving. It’s a highly rated district with a strong tax base, often offering competitive salaries and benefits. They actively recruit from local universities like UNT Dallas.
3. Dallas Independent School District (DISD): Many Irving residents commute to DISD schools, which are just a short drive east. DISD is massive, offering hundreds of opportunities but also facing higher turnover. They have specific programs for teacher retention and bonus incentives for high-need schools.
4. Uplift Education: A major network of public charter schools in North Texas, with several campuses in and around Irving (e.g., Uplift North Hills Preparatory in Irving). Charter schools often have a more flexible curriculum but may require longer hours.
5. The Dallas Foundation (Community Schools): While not a direct employer, this foundation partners with Dallas ISD and others to fund community schools, which integrate social services. Teachers in these models often have additional support staff.
6. Private Schools (e.g., The Highlands School, The Clearwater School): Smaller, often faith-based or Montessori schools. Salaries can be lower than public districts, but class sizes are smaller and there’s more curricular freedom.
7. ChildCare Group & Head Start Programs: For those interested in early childhood education (Pre-K), these non-profits offer positions in Irving, often with a focus on at-risk communities.

Hiring Trend Insight: The push for STEM and bilingual education is strong. If you have a STEM endorsement or are a certified ESL teacher, you’ll be in high demand. Districts are also increasingly looking for teachers experienced with multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS).

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has a streamlined but specific process for teacher certification. It’s not the quickest, but it’s achievable.

1. Education Requirement: You must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Your degree should ideally be in education or include a teacher preparation program.
2. Examinations: You must pass the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) for your desired grade level (e.g., EC-6 Generalist). The exam fee is $116. You may also need to take the PPR (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities) exam ($116).
3. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and FBI is mandatory. This costs approximately $50.
4. Application & Fees: The State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) application fee is $78. You’ll apply online through the Texas Education Agency (TEA) portal.
5. Alternative Certification (if needed): If your degree isn’t in education, you can enroll in an alternative certification program (ACP). ACPs are approved by the TEA and typically cost $2,000 - $5,000 and take 6-12 months to complete.
6. Out-of-State Teachers: If you’re already certified in another state, you can apply for a review of your credentials. Texas may require you to take additional coursework or exams to meet its standards.

Timeline:

• Already Certified in Another State: 3-6 months for credential review.
• New Graduate (in-state program): 6-9 months (includes student teaching and exams).
• Alternative Certification: 12-18 months (coursework + 300 hours of field experience).

Insider Tip: Start the application process at least 6 months before you plan to move. The TEA website can be slow, and exam slots fill up. Consider using a program like iTeachTexas or Texas Teachers of Tomorrow if you’re going the alternative route—they have a strong track record in the DFW area.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Where you live in Irving impacts your commute, social life, and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
Las Colinas	Upscale, corporate, walkable to offices and the Dallas North Tollway. Easy commute to most districts.	$1,500 - $1,800	Young professionals, those who want a modern apartment with amenities.
Valley Ranch	Suburban, family-friendly, with parks and community pools. Good access to I-635 and I-35E.	$1,300 - $1,500	Teachers who want a quiet, suburban feel with a short commute to schools.
South Irving (Coppell Border)	Established, diverse, with more affordable single-family homes. Commute to Dallas or Fort Worth is manageable.	$1,100 - $1,300	Those looking for a true community feel and lower rent.
North Irving (near DFW Airport)	Convenient for travelers, but can be noisy. More apartment complexes and a transient population.	$1,000 - $1,200	Budget-conscious teachers who don’t mind a busier environment.
Campion Trails Area	Near the Trinity River, with excellent greenbelts and trails. More suburban and peaceful.	$1,250 - $1,450	Nature lovers and those who want a quiet retreat after a busy school day.

Insider Tip: Traffic on Loop 12, I-635, and the President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT) can be brutal during rush hour. If you work in a district like IISD, living in Valley Ranch or South Irving can cut your commute to under 20 minutes. Always test the drive during your potential work hours before signing a lease.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the 10-year job growth is only 1%, career advancement in teaching isn’t just about moving up—it’s about specializing.

• Specialty Premiums: Teachers with certifications in Special Education (SPED), English as a Second Language (ESL), or STEM can often negotiate a higher starting salary or receive stipends (ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 annually). Bilingual stipends are particularly valuable in Irving’s diverse districts.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Instructional Coach: Move out of the classroom to mentor other teachers. Requires 3-5 years of experience and a master’s often helps.
  2. Department Head/Team Lead: A leadership role within a school, with a small stipend.
  3. Administrator: Pursue a principal certification (requires a master’s and 2+ years of teaching). Salaries for principals in Irving range from $90,000 to $120,000+.
  4. District-Level Roles: Curriculum specialist, coordinator. These roles are competitive and often require advanced degrees.
• 10-Year Outlook: The teacher shortage is real, but it’s concentrated in high-need areas. Long-term, teachers who stay in the classroom will see modest salary increases through the district’s step-and-lane system. Those who move into leadership or specialize will have better earning potential. The key is to continuously seek professional development (PD) opportunities—many districts offer tuition reimbursement for master’s degrees.

Insider Tip: Join local chapters of the Texas Classroom Teachers Association (TCTA) or the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). They provide legal support, PD resources, and networking events that are invaluable for long-term career planning.

The Verdict: Is Irving Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Above-average salary compared to national average.	Cost of living is above the national average, primarily due to housing.
Stable job market with major employers like IISD and DISD.	Job growth is slow (1%), making competition for desirable schools tougher.
Diverse, vibrant community with great food and cultural events.	Car-dependent city—limited public transit options.
Central location in DFW with access to two major airports and endless amenities.	Summer heat can be intense, with high energy costs for cooling.
Good public school options for your own children if you have a family.	Teacher burnout is a real issue in large districts like DISD.

Final Recommendation:
Irving is a solid choice for teachers who value urban-suburban balance and career stability. It’s ideal for those who are bilingual or have special education certifications, as you’ll be in high demand. If you’re a new teacher, starting in a district like CFBISD can provide excellent mentorship. However, if you’re seeking rapid career growth or a lower cost of living, you might find better opportunities in the outer suburbs of DFW or in smaller Texas cities.

The Bottom Line: For a teacher earning the median $64,300, Irving is manageable but tight on a single income. It’s a place to build a career, not necessarily a place to buy a home immediately. Come for the job opportunities, stay for the community, and plan your finances carefully.

FAQs

1. What’s the best school district to work for in Irving?

• Irving ISD is the most direct employer and offers a clear path for advancement. Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD (CFBISD) often pays more and has higher-rated schools. Dallas ISD offers the most variety and bonus incentives for high-need campuses.

2. Are there bonuses for teachers in Irving?
Yes, many districts offer signing bonuses for hard-to-staff positions (SPED, STEM, ESL). Dallas ISD, for example, has offered bonuses up to $5,000. Always ask about these during the interview process.

3. How long does it take to get a Texas teaching license from out-of-state?
If you’re fully certified in another state with at least 2 years of experience, you can often get a one-year probationary certificate in Texas while you complete any additional requirements. The full review process typically takes 3-6 months.

4. Is Irving a good place for a teacher with a family?
Yes, especially in neighborhoods like Valley Ranch or Campion Trails, which are family-oriented with good parks and community events. However, childcare costs are high, and the $64,300 salary may be challenging for a single-income family. Dual-income households find it much more comfortable.

5. What’s the summer teaching scene like?
Many teachers in Irving work summer school programs through their districts or at local summer camps (like those at the Irving Arts Center or the YMCA). This can provide an extra $3,000 - $6,000 of income, which is often necessary for saving or paying down debt.