Country Guide · China
International school teacher salaries in China
China has one of the largest international and bilingual school markets in the world. Packages range from very modest to extremely competitive, and experiences can be just as varied. This guide focuses on the broad patterns that matter most to teachers: salaries, benefits, cost of living and realistic savings potential.
Currency
Renminbi (RMB / CNY)
Typical salary band*
~ 18,000 – 30,000 RMB / month
Established international schools in major cities.
Contracts
2-year contracts are common
Often with flight allowance and housing support.
Income tax
Progressive, with allowances
Many schools help manage tax and may offer net-salary contracts.
Typical salary ranges in China
Because China is huge and its school sector is diverse, there is no single "China salary". Instead, think in terms of bands: lower-fee or training-centre roles at one end; established international schools in major cities in the middle; and premium packages at the top.
Bilingual / private & lower-fee roles
Some bilingual or local private schools, as well as language centres, may offer salaries in the 10,000–18,000 RMB per month range. These roles can still be viable if housing is included and living costs are low, but savings potential is often more modest.
Contracts and support can vary widely in this segment; due diligence is essential.
Established international schools & leadership
Many international schools in cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen and Guangzhou offer packages in the 18,000–30,000 RMB per month range for experienced classroom teachers, often plus housing support and flights. Leadership roles can push well above this band.
Premium schools often combine higher salaries with substantial benefits – but also with rigorous expectations.
*All figures are indicative and based on public ranges and teacher reports; they are not guarantees from any specific school.
Common benefits in China international school packages
Benefits in China can be generous, particularly in established international schools. They can also be extremely basic in some corners of the market. Reading the contract carefully and talking to current staff is crucial.
Housing or housing allowance: many schools offer either furnished accommodation or a monthly housing stipend, especially in larger cities.
Flights: start- and end-of-contract flights are common; some schools also provide annual return flights.
Medical insurance: usually provided, but the quality and coverage can vary.
Tuition discounts for children: many international schools offer discounted or free places for dependants; bilingual schools may offer different arrangements.
Contract completion bonuses: some schools offer bonuses or gratuities at the end of a contract, especially in more remote locations.
Professional development: established schools often invest in curriculum training and leadership development, particularly for IB or British curricula.
Cost of living and savings potential
Cost of living in China varies dramatically: a central Shanghai lifestyle is very different from a smaller city posting. In many locations, daily life – food, transport, basic services – can be relatively affordable compared to Western cities, especially when combined with subsidised housing.
Rough monthly costs
A single teacher in a major city might spend a few thousand RMB per month on daily costs (food, transport, utilities, modest social life), with rent adding anywhere from 3,000 to 8,000+ RMB depending on city and apartment type. Smaller cities often sit lower.
These numbers are very approximate; on-the-ground research for a specific city is always worthwhile.
Savings: teacher experiences
In solid international schools with housing support, many teachers report being able to save a meaningful portion of their salary while still travelling and enjoying life. In lower-fee roles or in very high-cost areas without housing support, savings can be more limited.
Housing, city choice and contract details are the biggest variables in China.
Who is China a good fit for?
China can be a fantastic professional and personal experience for teachers who are open-minded, adaptable and curious. It may be particularly appealing if you:
Are interested in learning more about Chinese culture, language and rapid urban development.
Are comfortable with some complexity in regulations and are happy to ask lots of questions about visas, tax and contracts.
Want a mix of professional challenge, cultural experience and (in the right role) strong savings potential.
Compare your China offer
If you have an offer from a school in China, use My Offer vs. The World to see how it compares with anonymous packages from teachers in other countries and regions.
🎯 My Offer vs. The World
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Join the mailing listFrequently asked questions
- What is a typical salary for international school teachers in China?
- Many international teachers report salaries somewhere between 18,000 and 30,000 RMB per month at solid international schools, with premium schools and leadership roles going higher, and lower-fee or training centres sitting below that range.
- What is the difference between international and bilingual/private schools?
- Fully international schools (often serving expat communities) can offer stronger packages, while some local private or bilingual schools may offer lower salaries and benefits, though there are exceptions.
- How does income tax work in China?
- China has a progressive income tax system, and tax can be a little complex due to allowances and changing regulations. Many schools support teachers with the paperwork and provide net-salary contracts.
- Is China still a good destination for savings?
- For many teachers, yes. In cities with reasonable housing costs and a good package, it is still possible to save well, particularly outside the highest-cost locations or when housing is subsidised.
- How does Wondering Staffroom’s data help?
- Our China figures draw on anonymous teacher submissions and public information to build a clearer, teacher-led picture of what different schools and cities really offer.
Nothing on this page is financial advice. All figures are indicative only and based on public ranges and teacher experiences.
