Hays vs Manhattan: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Hays, KS and Manhattan, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hays, KS | Manhattan, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $54,978▲ | $50,005 |
| Hourly Rate | $26.44▲ | $24.04 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,971 | $48,470▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $52,318▲ | $49,551 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,745▲ | $58,609 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,131▲ | $61,224 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 570▲ |
Verdict
Hays, KS offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Manhattan.
The salary gap between Hays and Manhattan is $4,973 (9.95%). Hays's median is -14.89% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hays spans $39,160,Manhattan spans $12,754. Hays 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, Hays ($60,482 effective) pays 9.05% more than Manhattan ($55,461 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hays if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($54,978/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,131)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $60,482)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Manhattan if…
- ✓Larger job market (570 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Hays grew 10.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -14.6% growth in Manhattan over the same period.
Hays, KS
$49,362 (2024) → $54,444 (2025)
Manhattan, KS
$57,990 (2019) → $49,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manhattan, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Hays or Manhattan?
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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