Caldwell vs Idaho Falls: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Caldwell, ID and Idaho Falls, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Caldwell, ID | Idaho Falls, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,240▲ | $61,679 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.92▲ | $29.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,381 | $47,208▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $57,706▲ | $49,591 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,133▲ | $65,597 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $96,472▲ | $79,088 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 680▲ |
Verdict
Caldwell, ID offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Idaho Falls.
The salary gap between Caldwell and Idaho Falls is $561 (0.91%). Caldwell's median is -3.65% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Caldwell spans $52,091,Idaho Falls spans $31,880. Caldwell 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, Idaho Falls ($65,330 effective) pays 0.03% more than Caldwell ($65,310 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Caldwell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,240/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($96,472)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (680 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,330)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Caldwell grew 16.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 57.4% growth in Idaho Falls over the same period.
Caldwell, ID
$52,827 (2024) → $61,636 (2025)
Idaho Falls, ID
$38,810 (2019) → $61,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Caldwell, ID
Idaho Falls, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Caldwell or Idaho Falls?
What is the hourly rate difference between Caldwell and Idaho Falls?
Should I relocate from Caldwell to Idaho Falls as a elementary school teacher?
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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