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As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Lead Teacher in Illinois is $108,053 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $52.
However, a Lead Teacher's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Lead Teacher Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $121,537 | $10,128 | $2,337 | $58 |
| Average | $108,053 | $9,004 | $2,078 | $52 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,893 | $7,908 | $1,825 | $46 |
Hughes Recruiting & Consulting - Rockford, IL
The Goddard School of Naperville (83rd Street), IL - Naperville, IL
Ladybug & Friends Daycare and Preschool - Chicago, IL
THE GREEN BEAN LLC - Chicago, IL
A Lead Teacher's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Lead Teachers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
For Lead Teacher roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 10% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Education, offers compensation 5% above the average. Conversely, Lead Teacher positions in Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Lead Teacher as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education | $113,456 | $55.0 | 5% |
Understanding how a Lead Teacher's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $121,537 | $10,128 | $2,337 | $58 |
| Average | $108,053 | $9,004 | $2,078 | $52 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,893 | $7,908 | $1,825 | $46 |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Lead Teacher job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
Metropolitan Family Services
Wheaton, IL
Metropolitan Family Services | Wheaton, IL
Job Description. Job Description. We are currently searching for a full-time Preschool Lead Teacher for our 43-Week Program at our. DuPage office. in our P... more
4 Days Ago
KIDS PROJECTS INC
Morton Grove, IL
KIDS PROJECTS INC | Morton Grove, IL
Job Description. Job Description. We are seeking an experienced and dedicated. Lead Teacher. to join our team. This individual will plan and implement age-... more
4 Days Ago
Children of America
Flossmoor, IL
Children of America | Flossmoor, IL
Job Description. Job Description. About Children of America (COA): Join Children of America - a nationally accredited preschool with 65+ locations across 1... more
5 Days Ago
Concordia University, Chicago
River Forest, IL
Concordia University, Chicago | River Forest, IL
Job Description. Job Description. Concordia University Chicago (CUC) invites applications for the full-time, exempt position of Lead Teacher. This position... more
5 Days Ago
Irving Park Early Learning Center
Chicago, IL
Irving Park Early Learning Center | Chicago, IL
Job Description. Job Description. Make a Difference as an Toddler Teacher. 18 Paid Holidays + Additional PTO. We are looking for an. experienced, passionat... more
5 Days Ago
The Goddard School of Chicago (West Loop), IL
Chicago, IL
The Goddard School of Chicago (West Loop), IL | Chicago, IL
Job Description. Job Description. Benefits. Free Parking. 401(k). Bonus based on performance. Competitive salary. Dental insurance. Health insurance. Oppor... more
6 Days Ago
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