Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Darlington UA
ONS ASHE 2025 · North East region · Updated October 2025
How Darlington UA compares
In practical terms, a head teachers and principals in the North East earned a median of £71,526 during 2025, which works out to 0.8% above the UK-wide median of £70,977. This is particularly notable amid well-documented teacher recruitment and retention challenges across the UK. The cost of living in the North East is 9.9% below the UK average, so a salary of £71,526 has an effective purchasing power closer to £79,385. Compared to the Darlington UA average across all roles (£29,692), head teachers and principalss take home 140.9% more.
Cost of Living Adjustment
After adjusting for the regional cost of living (North East index: 90.1, UK=100), a salary of £71,526 has an effective purchasing power of approximately £79,385 — equivalent to earning that amount in an area with average UK costs. The cost of living in the North East is 9.9% below the UK average.
Head teachers and principals salary across UK regions
Head teachers and principals salary in areas near Darlington UA
Salary data is by ONS region. Darlington UA is in the North 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 Darlington UA?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the North East (which includes Darlington UA) is £71,526 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 Darlington UA compare to the UK average?
Head teachers and principals in the North East earn 0.8% above the national median of £70,977. This makes the North East one of the higher-paying regions for this role.
Is head teachers and principals a well-paid job in Darlington UA compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Darlington UA is £29,692. Head teachers and principals in the North East earn £71,526, which is 140.9% above the local average across all occupations.
About this data
Salary figures for head teachers and principalss cover the North East region. The all-jobs average is specific to Darlington UA. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.