Atlanta vs Columbus: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Atlanta, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Atlanta, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,320▲ | $61,961 |
| Hourly Rate | $37.17▲ | $29.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,113▲ | $48,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,618▲ | $58,074 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,815▲ | $74,543 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,940▲ | $77,825 |
| Total Employed | 23,370▲ | 1,340 |
Verdict
Atlanta, GA offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Atlanta and Columbus is $15,359 (24.79%). Atlanta's median is +19.70% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Atlanta spans $39,827,Columbus spans $29,425. Atlanta has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Atlanta ($77,275 effective) pays 11.37% more than Columbus ($69,388 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Atlanta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($77,320/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,940)
- ✓Larger job market (23,370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $77,275)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Atlanta grew 30.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.8% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Atlanta, GA
$58,600 (2019) → $76,570 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$58,020 (2019) → $61,360 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Atlanta, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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