Salary, Cost of Living, and What You Should Know Before You Go
If you’re planning to teach in the U.S. on a J-1 visa, you might be wondering: “Will I earn enough to support myself and my family?”
The answer? It depends on where you’re going, how you manage your money, and what you know before you arrive.
Let’s break down what J-1 teachers really earn in 5 popular states for international teachers: New Mexico, Arizona, California, Florida, and Texas—and what that income looks like after expenses, taxes, and remittances.
Average Salaries for J-1 Teachers by State
| State | Estimated Annual Salary | Monthly Gross | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $48,000 – $53,000 | $4,000–$4,400 | Rural areas may offer housing support |
| Arizona | $45,000 – $50,000 | $3,750–$4,200 | Often includes induction training |
| California | $55,000 – $70,000+ | $4,600–$5,800 | High salaries but higher taxes |
| Florida | $44,000 – $50,000 | $3,600–$4,200 | Some districts offer bonuses |
| Texas | $50,000 – $60,000 | $4,200–$5,000 | Varies by district and experience |
These are estimates and can change depending on your placement, years of experience, and district funding.
Cost of Living Comparison
| State | Rent (1BR apartment) | Transportation | Utilities | Monthly Groceries |
| New Mexico | $850–$1,100 | $80–$120 | $150–$200 | $300–$400 |
| Arizona | $1,000–$1,300 | $100–$150 | $180–$220 | $350–$450 |
| California | $1,800–$2,500+ | $120–$180 | $200–$300 | $400–$550 |
| Florida | $1,200–$1,500 | $100–$140 | $180–$250 | $350–$450 |
| Texas | $1,000–$1,400 | $80–$130 | $150–$200 | $300–$400 |
California offers higher salaries, but it also has the highest living expenses. Meanwhile, New Mexico and Texas provide more room to save despite slightly lower pay.
Budget Tips for First-Year J-1 Teachers
- Find shared housing for lower rent and built-in community
- Use public transportation or carpool when possible
- Track your expenses with apps like Mint or Goodbudget
- Don’t over-remit: Save before sending money home
- Meal prep to avoid daily take-out expenses
- Join local teacher groups for discounts, freebies, and furniture swaps
Hidden Expenses You Might Not Expect
- First-time apartment deposits (can be 1–2 months’ rent!)
- Car insurance or down payment
- Classroom supplies (often not reimbursed)
- Winter clothing if you’re from a tropical climate
- Travel expenses during school breaks
These can eat into your savings fast, especially in your first 3 months. Plan ahead!
Taxes & Remittance Basics
J-1 teachers are required to pay:
- Federal income tax
- State tax (except in states like Texas and Florida with no income tax)
- Local tax (varies by city/district)
Your sponsor may guide you, but it’s your responsibility to file correctly.
Remittance tip: Use tools like Wise or Remitly to send money home with lower fees.
So, Is It Enough?
Yes—but only if you budget wisely.
J-1 teaching is not a “get rich quick” path, but it can be a life-changing opportunity to:
- Earn a decent income
- Support family back home
- Build international experience
Being financially prepared means less stress and more freedom.
Want help planning your application and budget?
🎯 Check out the J-1 School Database (now on promo for $77.77) 👉 Please email apply@teach-usa.net to get access.
Stay tuned for:
“Can You Really Save as a J-1 Teacher? A Month-by-Month Breakdown” — coming soon!