Average Head teachers and principals Salary in the UK
ONS ASHE 2025 data — by region
UK Median
£70,977
National average
UK Mean
£71,776
National average
Hourly Rate
£44.31
Median
Jobs
63
UK total
Head teachers and principals Salary by Region
| Region | Median | Mean | vs UK Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yorkshire and The Humber | £82,282 | £83,939 | +£11,305 (15.9% above) |
| Wales | £76,119 | £78,448 | +£5,142 (7.2% above) |
| North West | £74,657 | £75,025 | +£3,680 (5.2% above) |
| North East | £71,526 | £72,099 | +£549 (0.8% above) |
| London | £71,111 | £77,967 | +£134 (0.2% above) |
| Scotland | £67,633 | £64,542 | -£3,344 (4.7% below) |
| South East | £67,377 | £68,865 | -£3,600 (5.1% below) |
| East | £66,126 | £73,759 | -£4,851 (6.8% below) |
| South West | £65,735 | £75,302 | -£5,242 (7.4% below) |
| East Midlands | £60,776 | £68,895 | -£10,201 (14.4% below) |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average head teachers and principals salary in the UK?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the UK is £70,977 per year, based on ONS ASHE 2025 data. The mean salary is £71,776, which is higher due to top earners.
What is the typical hourly rate for head teachers and principals in the UK?
The median hourly rate for head teachers and principals in the UK is £44.31, based on ONS ASHE 2025 data.
Which part of the UK pays the most for head teachers and principals?
The Yorkshire and The Humber offers the highest median salary for head teachers and principals at £82,282 per year. London and the South East consistently rank among the highest-paying regions for most occupations.
How many head teachers and principals are there in the UK?
According to ONS ASHE 2025, there are approximately 63 head teachers and principals employed in the UK.
About this data
All figures are based on the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) 2025 data published by the Office for National Statistics. Read our methodology.