Cleveland Heights vs Columbus: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Cleveland Heights, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cleveland Heights, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $73,276 | $78,916▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $35.23 | $37.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,308▲ | $49,238 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,059▲ | $61,598 |
| 75th Percentile | $91,484 | $101,293▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,578▲ | $103,050 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 9,950▲ |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cleveland Heights.
The salary gap between Cleveland Heights and Columbus is $5,640 (7.70%). Columbus's median is +22.17% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cleveland Heights spans $56,270,Columbus spans $53,812. Cleveland Heights 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, Columbus ($82,661 effective) pays 2.32% more than Cleveland Heights ($80,789 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cleveland Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,578)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,916/year)
- ✓Larger job market (9,950 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $82,661)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Cleveland Heights grew 24.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.7% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Cleveland Heights, OH
$58,526 (2024) → $72,565 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$66,950 (2019) → $78,150 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland Heights, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Cleveland Heights or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cleveland Heights and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Cleveland Heights to Columbus as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Cleveland Heights vs Columbus?
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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