How Much Does a early childhood development Make in the United States ? (2026 Salary Guide)

early childhood development Salary in the United States

As of January 01, 2026, the average annual salary for early childhood development in the US is $45,442, equivalent to $22 per hour, $874 weekly, or $3,787 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for early childhood development in cities like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Fremont.

Annually Salaries for early childhood development in the US vary widely, spanning from $35,120 to $54,267. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($40,039) and 75th percentile ($50,062), while top earners (90th percentile) make $54,267 per year. This $10,023 pay gap underscores opportunities for salary growth through certifications, specialized skills like Planning or First Aid, or targeting high-paying regions like District of Columbia or California.

Location and experience significantly influence earnings. For example, District of Columbia early childhood development often earn 10.7% above national averages due to demand from Fortune 67 companies and industry startups. Professionals are advised to focus on high-growth sectors like to offset market challenges.

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early childhood development Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile early childhood development Salary $35,120 US January 01, 2026
25th Percentile early childhood development Salary $40,039 US January 01, 2026
50th Percentile early childhood development Salary $45,442 US January 01, 2026
75th Percentile early childhood development Salary $50,062 US January 01, 2026
90th Percentile early childhood development Salary $54,267 US January 01, 2026
25% $40,039 10% $35,120 90% $54,267 75% $50,062 $45,442 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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Check out early childhood development jobs in the United States

Early Childhood Educator for Human Services Organization

PathWays of the River Valley - WEST LEBANON, NH

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Substitute Teacher Early Childhood Special Education

Connected Roots Care Center - OMAHA, NE

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Full Time Qualified Lead Teacher

Westfield Child Development Center - WESTFIELD, PA

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What is a early childhood development ?

Early childhood development professionals play a crucial role in fostering the cognitive, emotional, and social growth of young children. Responsibilities include designing and implementing age-appropriate educational programs, assessing developmental milestones, and creating a nurturing environment that promotes learning through play. Collaboration with parents and caregivers is essential to support each child's unique needs. Salaries in this field can vary widely based on factors such as location, level of education, and years of experience. On average, early childhood educators can expect...

Source: (as of 06/04/2025). Read more from

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  1. This Job:

    early childhood development


    Associate's Degree

  2. Up a level:

    Child Caregiver I

    0 - 1 years experience
    High School Diploma or Technical Certificate

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Understand the total compensation opportunity for a early childhood development, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
40039
50062
45442

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
41058
51409
45383
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of early childhood development in the United States. The base salary for early childhood development ranges from $40,039 to $50,062 with the average base salary of $45,442. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $41,058 to $51,409 with the average total cash compensation of $45,383.

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40039
50062

 

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