Abilene vs San Antonio: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Abilene, TX and San Antonio, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Abilene, TX | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $54,004 | $62,325▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $25.96 | $29.96▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,087 | $48,965▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $52,611 | $59,598▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $60,588 | $63,607▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $60,840 | $66,283▲ |
| Total Employed | 660 | 12,220▲ |
Verdict
San Antonio, TX offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Abilene.
The salary gap between Abilene and San Antonio is $8,321 (15.41%). San Antonio's median is -3.52% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Abilene spans $13,753,San Antonio spans $17,318. San Antonio has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, San Antonio ($65,802 effective) pays 10.11% more than Abilene ($59,763 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Abilene if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose San Antonio if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,325/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($66,283)
- ✓Larger job market (12,220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,802)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Abilene grew 11.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.3% growth in San Antonio over the same period.
Abilene, TX
$48,030 (2019) → $53,480 (2025)
San Antonio, TX
$57,010 (2019) → $61,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Abilene, TX
San Antonio, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Abilene or San Antonio?
What is the hourly rate difference between Abilene and San Antonio?
Should I relocate from Abilene to San Antonio as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Abilene vs San Antonio?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov