Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Manchester
ONS ASHE 2025 · North West region · Updated October 2025
How Manchester compares
According to ONS figures for 2025, the median head teachers and principals salary in the North West reached £74,657, sitting 5.2% above the national 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. The all-jobs average in Manchester is £36,554. By comparison, head teachers and principalss earn 104.2% more than the typical worker locally.
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 Manchester
Salary data is by ONS region. Manchester 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 Manchester?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the North West (which includes Manchester) 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 Manchester 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 Manchester compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Manchester is £36,554. Head teachers and principals in the North West earn £74,657, which is 104.2% 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 Manchester. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.