Insurance Canopy’s latest report on the best states for teachers in 2025 offers a detailed look at where educators are most likely to thrive. While salary is a big factor, it’s not just about the paycheck—this report also takes into account aspects like class sizes, teacher support, and educational resources. For those considering where to teach or simply curious about the landscape, here’s an overview of the states that stand out.
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Key Takeaways from the Report
The report ranks states based on a variety of important factors that make a real difference in a teacher’s experience:
- Starting Teacher Salaries (May 2023)
- Estimated Average Teacher Salaries (May 2024)
- Year-Over-Year Salary Increases (2021 to 2024)
- Per Pupil Spending
- Student-Teacher Ratios
- Cost of Living
The ranking highlights those states that excel in not just pay, but also the overall environment they offer teachers—making it easier to succeed and feel supported in the profession.
1. New Jersey
New Jersey is the undisputed top contender when it comes to teacher salaries. Teachers here aren’t just well-paid—they’re well-supported with smaller class sizes and a strong commitment to per-pupil spending. It’s the state where you can be confident your paycheck will stretch just as far as your passion for teaching.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- High teacher salaries, especially for experienced educators (yes, please!)
- Smaller class sizes make classrooms more manageable—because let’s face it, fewer kids = fewer headaches
- Strong support through education funding, so you’re not teaching on a shoestring budget
2. New Mexico
New Mexico may not have the highest pay right off the bat, but what it lacks in starting salary, it makes up for with some seriously impressive salary increases in recent years. Teachers in New Mexico have seen their pay jump—talk about making up for lost time. The state is all about making sure teachers stick around and feel supported.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Significant salary increases in the past few years (proof that good things come to those who wait)
- A heavy focus on teacher retention, because no one wants to see their favorite educator pack up and leave
- Boosting funding for educational resources to keep teachers equipped and students engaged
3. New York
Let’s face it: teaching in New York sounds like it could be a movie—high pay, lower student-teacher ratios, and all the excitement of teaching in a bustling state. New York doesn’t disappoint. Teachers here enjoy competitive salaries, along with a commitment to making sure the classroom feels manageable with smaller student-to-teacher ratios. Plus, there’s a strong emphasis on equity in education, ensuring that teachers can make an impact regardless of where they’re teaching.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- High pay across the board, especially in urban areas (because let’s be real, everything costs more in the Big Apple)
- Lower student-teacher ratios, giving you a bit more breathing room when you’re corralling the class
- A focus on equity, ensuring all students have the tools to succeed
4. Massachusetts
Massachusetts is like that overachiever who not only scores the highest on every test but also makes sure everyone around them succeeds. It’s a top performer when it comes to teacher retention and professional development. If you’re looking for a place that values your growth as much as your paycheck, Massachusetts is a great choice.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Strong emphasis on career development and professional growth (because who wants to stay stagnant?)
- High teacher retention, proving that Massachusetts knows how to keep its best educators around
- Impressive student achievement, a reflection of the positive environment for teachers
5. Connecticut
Connecticut rounds out the top five with great compensation packages that don’t just include solid pay, but also excellent benefits. Teachers here get the added bonus of smaller class sizes and a genuine focus on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Who says you can’t have a fulfilling career and still have time to enjoy your weekends?
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Competitive salaries and benefits (hello, health insurance!)
- Smaller class sizes, which means more personal attention for each student (and fewer eye-rolls during parent-teacher conferences)
- A real focus on work-life balance—because even superheroes need a break
Conclusion
The states highlighted in this report clearly demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of teachers. While salary plays a big role in the rankings, the focus on teacher support, professional development, and classroom environments makes these states stand out. We encourage you to check out the NEA’s year-over-year rankings for long term improvements for teachers, state by state.
What’s particularly striking is how the states that rank the highest are those that invest not just in financial compensation but in creating sustainable careers for educators. For teachers considering a move or looking for a place to grow in their profession, these rankings offer a solid starting point for understanding which states prioritize both educators’ and students’ success.