Thailand is a hugely popular TEFL destination thanks to its rich lifestyle, exciting culture and wealth of opportunities for both new and experienced English teachers. But can you earn good money there?
Generally, TEFL teachers in Thailand earn 27K-66K baht ($800-2,000) per month from public schools and language academies. Qualified and experienced teachers can make well over 100K Baht ($3,000) a month at private international schools. Private classes earn 500-1,500 Baht ($15-45) per hour.
There’s quite a range between the lowest salaries for new TEFL teachers and the higher paying jobs, meaning there’s something for everyone. What you can earn depends on your qualifications and experience, as well as where you choose to live.
Searching for the perfect TEFL destination with the best earnings? Compare countries around the world with my free resource: How Much Do TEFL & TESL Teachers Make? Countries compared.
Options and earnings for TEFL teachers in Thailand
Public schools in Thailand don’t require a degree level teaching qualification, so are frequent employers of foreign TEFL teachers. Language academies are another popular choice.
International schools are a great opportunity for certified teachers, while private classes can supplement your income.
| Earnings Source | Per Hour ($) | Hours Per Week | Per Month ($) | Annual Estimate ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Schools | 13-22 | 40 | 2,000-3,500 | 24K-42K |
| Public Schools | 5-8 | 40 | 800-1,200 | 9.6K-14.4K |
| Language Academies | 11-20 | 20-25 | 850-2,000 | 10.2K-24K |
| Private Classes | 15-45 | 20 | 1,200-3,600 | 14.4K-43.2K |
These earnings aren’t as high as other Asian countries, like Japan and South Korea, and as a new or inexperienced teacher, you’ll only be able to earn the lower end of the estimated ranges.
However, compared to the cost of living in Thailand, they’re enough to live off.
Outside of Bangkok, living costs are in the region of 33K baht ($1,000) per month for a comfortable lifestyle, but in some areas, you could live frugally for as little as 17K ($500). In Bangkok, expect to pay a little more – as much as 43K baht ($1,300) a month for a decent lifestyle.
To compensate for the higher living costs, salaries in Bangkok are higher, too.
If you’re starting out as a TEFL teacher, you won’t be able to save masses of money, but you should be able to live fairly well. And when you gain experience, the potential for saving is very good.
Work permits aren’t too much of a challenge. You can get one if you’re employed by any Thai establishment.
The academic year in Thailand is different to most western countries. It begins in mid-May and ends in February, with a mid-year holiday in September/October. Bear that in mind when applying for jobs in schools.
This calendar difference is due to the extreme temperature in March and April, which often exceeds 40 degrees celsius. And it’s hot all year round, with the lowest monthly average temperatures in December and January at 21.5 degrees celsius.
The school day typically runs from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm. Classes in public schools are large – often between 40 and 50 students.
How much do TEFL teachers make in public schools in Thailand?
Thai public schools hire TEFL teachers without demanding a degree-level teaching qualification. A 120-hour TEFL certificate is usually enough.
Earnings start at around 27K baht ($800) per month. If you have a bit more experience, you can earn a little more – around 40K ($1,200).
Class sizes are big (up to 50 students) and you’ll work 40 hours a week. That’s intense. And it works out at an hourly rate of 166-265 baht ($5-8) per hour.
Personally, I’d avoid this kind of job because it’s a lot of work for very little reward.
How much do TEFL teachers make in language academies in Thailand?
For most new and inexperienced TEFL teachers, language academies offer the best pay and working conditions.
Starting salaries are about 28K baht ($850) per month. While this isn’t much more than public schools, when you consider you’ll only work 20-25 hours a week, it means your hourly rate is higher ($11-20), and you have time to enjoy your life.
And if you have more qualifications and experience, you can make 66K baht ($2,000) or more with this type of work.
There are plenty of options available, too. Famous names like International House, Wall Street English and Berlitz are there, as well as a plethora of local companies. Go to ESL Base’s list to check them out.
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How much do TEFL teachers make in international schools in Thailand?
Private and international schools are a good source of income for TEFL teachers with a bit more experience and a stronger CV. For the absolute best schools, you’ll need a teaching license from your own country and a few years under your belt.
But for lower and mid-level schools, a CELTA or even Level 5 TEFL could be enough.
To find out what TEFL certificate is best for you, read my article explaining everything: What is the Best TEFL Certificate? Guide to choosing right.
As a classroom teacher in an international school in Thailand, you can expect to earn at least 66K baht ($2,000) a month. From there, you can rise to 116K baht ($3,500) or even more in the very prestigious institutions.
How much do TEFL teachers make from private classes in Thailand?
Private English classes are a great way to supplement your income in any country. They’re particularly lucrative in Thailand, as you can charge between 500 and 1,500 baht ($15-45) per hour.
Obviously, higher rates are for experienced and qualified teachers. If you’re a native English speaker with a TEFL certificate, but new to the industry, I don’t see why you couldn’t charge 660 baht ($20) or more.
Unfortunately, going self-employed as a full-time private tutor is difficult since, like in so many countries, foreigners can’t legally set up as self-employed workers. You need employment to get a work permit.
That being said, you can still use private classes to boost your income. As language academies have short working hours, there’s definitely room to do a few extra classes on the side, as long as your employer is okay with it.
If you took three hours of classes a week at 660 baht ($20) per hour, that would get you an extra 8,000 baht ($240) per month.
For the full guide on becoming an English tutor, read my article: How to Get Started as an EFL/ESL Private Tutor.
Conclusion
Thailand offers well-paid work for TEFL teachers of all levels and interests. If you’re looking to enjoy your time in the country for a year or so, language academies are a great choice as they offer a good wage with short working hours.
What if you’re serious about a longer term stay? Private classes and international schools can help you earn enough money to live comfortably and save a healthy amount each month.
And what a place to live. With the climate, natural beauty, and wonderful lifestyle, it’s no wonder Thailand is one of the most popular TEFL destinations on the planet.
Why not head over to my resource: How Much Do TEFL & TESL Teachers Make? Countries compared to see what countries around the world can offer?
