Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Bedford UA
ONS ASHE 2025 · East region · Updated October 2025
How Bedford UA compares
In practical terms, a head teachers and principals in the East earned a median of £66,126 during 2025, which works out to 6.8% below the UK-wide median of £70,977. This is particularly notable amid well-documented teacher recruitment and retention challenges across the UK. In practical terms, living costs in the East run 2.7% below average. That means £66,126 stretches to roughly £67,961 in real spending power. Compared to the Bedford UA average across all roles (£33,148), head teachers and principalss take home 99.5% more.
Cost of Living Adjustment
After adjusting for the regional cost of living (East index: 97.3, UK=100), a salary of £66,126 has an effective purchasing power of approximately £67,961 — equivalent to earning that amount in an area with average UK costs. The cost of living in the East is 2.7% below the UK average.
Head teachers and principals salary across UK regions
Head teachers and principals salary in areas near Bedford UA
Salary data is by ONS region. Bedford UA is in the East region. Below are neighbouring regions — click to explore salaries there.
Head teachers and principals Salary Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average head teachers and principals salary in Bedford UA?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the East (which includes Bedford UA) is £66,126 per year, based on ONS ASHE 2025 data. The mean salary is typically higher due to top earners pulling the average up.
How does head teachers and principals pay in Bedford UA compare to the UK average?
Head teachers and principals in the East earn 6.8% below the national median of £70,977. Other regions such as London and the South East typically offer higher salaries for this role.
Is head teachers and principals a well-paid job in Bedford UA compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Bedford UA is £33,148. Head teachers and principals in the East earn £66,126, which is 99.5% above the local average across all occupations.
About this data
Salary figures for head teachers and principalss cover the East region. The all-jobs average is specific to Bedford UA. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.