Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Newcastle upon Tyne
ONS ASHE 2025 · North East region · Updated October 2025
How Newcastle upon Tyne compares
According to ONS figures for 2025, the median head teachers and principals salary in the North East reached £71,526, sitting 0.8% 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 East's cost of living (9.9% below the UK norm) and a £71,526 salary has the purchasing power of approximately £79,385. Compared to the Newcastle upon Tyne average across all roles (£31,786), head teachers and principalss take home 125.0% 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 Newcastle upon Tyne
Salary data is by ONS region. Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the North East (which includes Newcastle upon Tyne) 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Newcastle upon Tyne is £31,786. Head teachers and principals in the North East earn £71,526, which is 125.0% 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.