Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Southampton UA
ONS ASHE 2025 · South East region · Updated October 2025
How Southampton UA compares
In practical terms, a head teachers and principals in the South East earned a median of £67,377 during 2025, which works out to 5.1% 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 South East run 3.2% above average. That means £67,377 stretches to roughly £65,288 in real spending power. To put this alongside local pay more broadly: the average across all jobs in Southampton UA is £33,878, so head teachers and principalss sit 98.9% more that benchmark.
Cost of Living Adjustment
After adjusting for the regional cost of living (South East index: 103.2, UK=100), a salary of £67,377 has an effective purchasing power of approximately £65,288 — equivalent to earning that amount in an area with average UK costs. The cost of living in the South East is 3.2% above the UK average.
Head teachers and principals salary across UK regions
Head teachers and principals salary in areas near Southampton UA
Salary data is by ONS region. Southampton UA is in the South 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 Southampton UA?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the South East (which includes Southampton UA) is £67,377 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 Southampton UA compare to the UK average?
Head teachers and principals in the South East earn 5.1% 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 Southampton UA compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Southampton UA is £33,878. Head teachers and principals in the South East earn £67,377, which is 98.9% above the local average across all occupations.
About this data
Salary figures for head teachers and principalss cover the South East region. The all-jobs average is specific to Southampton UA. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.