In 2026 a full-time English teacher abroad typically earns between £700 and £3,500+ per month depending on region: the Gulf states pay the most (often tax-free with housing), East Asia offers the best save-while-you-live packages, Europe pays modestly but delivers lifestyle, and Latin America pays locally but costs little. Online teachers typically earn £8–£25 per hour depending on platform, niche and reviews. Here are the honest numbers.
Salaries by region and country
| Country | Typical monthly pay (2026) | Usually includes | Saving potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE / Saudi Arabia / Qatar | £2,000–£3,800 tax-free | Housing, flights, insurance | Excellent (licensed teachers favoured) |
| Japan | £1,300–£1,600 | Sometimes housing help | Moderate |
| South Korea | £1,300–£1,750 | Free housing, flights, end-of-contract bonus | Very good |
| China | £1,300–£2,400 | Often housing + flights | Very good |
| Taiwan | £1,400–£1,900 | Bonuses common | Good |
| Vietnam | £950–£1,600 | Low living costs | Good |
| Thailand | £750–£1,300 | Low living costs | Modest |
| Spain | £600–£1,300 | Assistant stipends / academy contracts | Break-even lifestyle |
| Italy / France | £900–£1,500 | Freelance and academy mix | Break-even |
| Mexico / Latin America | £450–£900 | Very low living costs | Lifestyle, not savings |
Rules of thumb: packages beat salaries (free housing in Korea is worth more than a nominally higher wage elsewhere); capital cities pay more and cost more; and your second year always pays better than your first.
Online rates
Conversation platforms pay a set ~£8–£10/hour. Marketplaces let you set your price: new tutors convert well at £10–£14, experienced tutors with strong reviews charge £18–£30, and specialists (IELTS preparation, business English) sit at the top of that range because results are measurable. The reliable path to higher pay is a specialism plus reviews - not more hours.
What actually moves your salary
Qualification level (a Level 5 certificate or a specialism reliably clears higher-paying shortlists), experience (year two abroad typically adds 10–20%), location tier within a country, and whether you're paid as a teacher or a results provider - exam preparation and corporate English always out-earn general conversation. Our accredited Level 3–5 TESOL courses are how teachers step up that ladder.
Which country pays English teachers the most?
The Gulf states - the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar - where experienced, well-qualified teachers earn £2,000–£3,800 tax-free with housing included. They also have the highest entry bar: most roles want a degree, strong TEFL credentials and classroom experience.
Where can I save the most money teaching English?
South Korea and China have historically offered the best save-rate for first-time teachers because housing is typically free and living costs are moderate against salary. Many teachers bank £400–£800 a month in year one.
Can you make a full-time living teaching English online?
Yes, but treat it as building a small business: full-time online incomes of £1,500–£3,000/month are common for tutors who specialise, keep a full calendar across time zones, and gather reviews consistently. The first three months are the slowest.