2026 · Entry-level focus

Entry-level Teacher salary in South Africa

What first-year teachers actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.

Starting pay
R18 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R26 000/mo
Hourly rate
R104–R150/hr

What you'll earn as a junior teacher

  • Most first-year teachers start between R18 000 and R26 000 per month.
  • That works out to roughly R104–R150 per hour on a 40-hour week.
  • Education path: BEd or PGCE.
  • Typical experience needed at entry: 0–3 yrs entry.
  • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R32 000/month.

From entry to mid-level

Within 3–5 years, mid-level teacher pay rises to around R32 000/month - a 78% increase over your starting salary.

See full Teacher salary guide →

Entry-level Teacher salary by city

Other entry-level careers to compare

See highest paid teachers →How to become a Teacher