Average Head teachers and principals Salary in West Lothian
ONS ASHE 2025 · Scotland region · Updated October 2025
How West Lothian compares
The median pay for head teachers and principalss in the Scotland stood at £67,633 in 2025, placing them 4.7% below the UK-wide figure of £70,977. This is particularly notable amid well-documented teacher recruitment and retention challenges across the UK. The cost of living in the Scotland is 7.7% below the UK average, so a salary of £67,633 has an effective purchasing power closer to £73,275. Compared to the West Lothian average across all roles (£32,535), head teachers and principalss take home 107.9% more.
Cost of Living Adjustment
After adjusting for the regional cost of living (Scotland index: 92.3, UK=100), a salary of £67,633 has an effective purchasing power of approximately £73,275 — equivalent to earning that amount in an area with average UK costs. The cost of living in the Scotland is 7.7% below the UK average.
Head teachers and principals salary across UK regions
Head teachers and principals salary in areas near West Lothian
Salary data is by ONS region. West Lothian is in the Scotland 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 West Lothian?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the Scotland (which includes West Lothian) is £67,633 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 West Lothian compare to the UK average?
Head teachers and principals in the Scotland earn 4.7% 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 West Lothian compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in West Lothian is £32,535. Head teachers and principals in the Scotland earn £67,633, which is 107.9% above the local average across all occupations.
About this data
Salary figures for head teachers and principalss cover the Scotland region. The all-jobs average is specific to West Lothian. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.