Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Cheshire West and Chester UA
ONS ASHE 2025 · North West region · Updated October 2025
How Cheshire West and Chester UA compares
In practical terms, a head teachers and principals in the North West earned a median of £74,657 during 2025, which works out to 5.2% above the UK-wide median of £70,977. This is particularly notable amid well-documented teacher recruitment and retention challenges across the UK. Factor in the North West's cost of living (8.8% below the UK norm) and a £74,657 salary has the purchasing power of approximately £81,861. To put this alongside local pay more broadly: the average across all jobs in Cheshire West and Chester UA is £30,636, so head teachers and principalss sit 143.7% more that benchmark.
Cost of Living Adjustment
After adjusting for the regional cost of living (North West index: 91.2, UK=100), a salary of £74,657 has an effective purchasing power of approximately £81,861 — equivalent to earning that amount in an area with average UK costs. The cost of living in the North West is 8.8% below the UK average.
Head teachers and principals salary across UK regions
Head teachers and principals salary in areas near Cheshire West and Chester UA
Salary data is by ONS region. Cheshire West and Chester UA is in the North West 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 Cheshire West and Chester UA?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the North West (which includes Cheshire West and Chester UA) is £74,657 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 Cheshire West and Chester UA compare to the UK average?
Head teachers and principals in the North West earn 5.2% above the national median of £70,977. This makes the North West one of the higher-paying regions for this role.
Is head teachers and principals a well-paid job in Cheshire West and Chester UA compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Cheshire West and Chester UA is £30,636. Head teachers and principals in the North West earn £74,657, which is 143.7% above the local average across all occupations.
About this data
Salary figures for head teachers and principalss cover the North West region. The all-jobs average is specific to Cheshire West and Chester UA. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.