The Best Countries to Teach English Abroad in 2027: Salary, Savings and Requirements Compared
Proof that teaching abroad can pay off (literally).
Thinking about teaching English abroad in 2027? The first question most people ask is "Where should I go?" The second is usually "How much will I actually earn and save?"
Salary is only half the story. A high wage in an expensive city can leave you with less in the bank than a modest wage in a country where your housing is free. That's why we've compared nine of the most popular teaching destinations on salary, savings potential, benefits and entry requirements, so you can find the right fit for your goals.
Salaries are shown in local currency with approximate US dollar equivalents. Exchange rates change, so treat all figures as guides rather than guarantees. Figures are correct as of October 2026.
2027 at a Glance: Quick Comparison
South Korea: ₩2.1M–2.8M a month (approx. $1,550–$2,050). Free housing. Savings potential: high. Degree required.
Japan: ¥250,000–300,000 a month (approx. $1,650–$2,000). Housing usually self-funded. Savings potential: medium. Degree required.
China: RMB 13,000–25,000 a month (approx. $1,900–$3,500). Housing often provided or an allowance. Savings potential: high. Degree required.
Taiwan: NT$55,000–65,000 a month (approx. $1,700–$2,000). Housing sometimes supported. Savings potential: medium to high. Degree required.
Vietnam: $1,200–$2,200 a month. Housing usually self-funded but affordable. Savings potential: medium. Degree usually required.
Uzbekistan: $3,000 a month (before local tax) on our government programme. Accommodation provided. Savings potential: high.
Saudi Arabia: SAR 8,000–13,000 a month (approx. $2,100–$3,400), tax-free. Free housing and flights. Savings potential: very high. Degree and experience usually required.
Spain: €800–1,000 a month as a language assistant. Housing self-funded. Savings potential: low, but excellent lifestyle.
Colombia: COP 2.5M–4M a month (approx. $650–$1,000). Housing self-funded. Savings potential: low to medium, but a great base for travel and learning Spanish.
Get qualified for all of these roles: most of the best-paying programmes ask for a 120-hour TEFL certificate. Get TEFL certified for £63 →
1. South Korea: Best All-Round Package for First-Time Teachers
South Korea remains one of the best places to start a teaching career. On the government-run EPIK programme, teachers earn ₩2.1M–2.8M a month depending on qualifications and region, with free furnished housing, entrance and exit allowances, and a severance bonus of around one month's salary at the end of the contract.
Because you don't pay rent, many teachers save a large share of their salary while still enjoying life in Korea. Private academies (hagwons) pay similar salaries but with longer hours and fewer holidays.
You'll need: a bachelor's degree, a 120-hour TEFL certificate and a passport from an approved English-speaking country.
2. Japan: Great Culture, Steady Pay
Japan offers stable salaries of around ¥250,000–300,000 a month in public schools (as an Assistant Language Teacher) and private conversation schools (eikaiwa). The JET Programme pays more, but places are limited and highly competitive.
Most teachers pay their own rent, so savings are more modest than in Korea, especially in Tokyo. Smaller cities offer a much better balance between salary and living costs.
You'll need: a bachelor's degree for the work visa. A TEFL certificate isn't always required, but it makes you a stronger candidate and helps you stand out in a competitive market.
3. China: Some of the Highest Salaries in Asia
China offers some of the highest salaries for English teachers in Asia. Most entry-level roles pay RMB 13,000–25,000 a month, and experienced teachers in major cities can earn more. Many contracts include free housing or a monthly housing allowance, plus flight reimbursement and completion bonuses.
With low living costs outside the biggest cities, China is one of the best places to build savings quickly.
You'll need: a bachelor's degree, a TEFL certificate and a passport from the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa.
4. Taiwan: Friendly, Safe and Well Paid
Taiwan is a favourite with teachers who want a high quality of life. Private language schools (buxibans) typically pay NT$55,000–65,000 a month, often with a contract completion bonus, and many teachers top up their income with private lessons.
Housing isn't always included, but rents outside Taipei are reasonable, so saving is very achievable.
You'll need: a bachelor's degree and a passport from an approved English-speaking country. A TEFL certificate is often preferred.
5. Vietnam: Low Costs and a Laid-Back Lifestyle
Vietnam has become one of the most popular teaching destinations in Southeast Asia. Teachers typically earn $1,200–$2,200 a month, with the highest salaries in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Living costs are low, so even after rent, food and travel, teachers can put money aside each month. Vietnam is also open to a wider range of nationalities than many Asian countries.
You'll need: usually a bachelor's degree and a TEFL certificate for the work permit.
See teaching jobs in Vietnam →
6. Uzbekistan: A Rising Star With a Strong Package
Uzbekistan is one of the most exciting new destinations for English teachers. Through the government teaching programme we recruit for, teachers earn $3,000 a month (before local tax), with accommodation provided, flight reimbursement and health insurance.
It's a fascinating country on the ancient Silk Road, with low living costs and a growing demand for English teachers. That makes it one of the best options for teachers who want to save while having a genuine adventure.
See teaching jobs in Uzbekistan →
7. Saudi Arabia: Top Earnings for Experienced Teachers
If saving money is your main goal, Saudi Arabia is hard to beat. English teachers typically earn SAR 8,000–13,000 a month, and salaries are tax-free. Most contracts also include free housing, annual flights and medical insurance.
The trade-off is higher entry requirements, and the lifestyle is more conservative than in many other destinations.
You'll need: a bachelor's degree, a TEFL certificate and usually some teaching experience. Many employers prefer higher qualifications, such as a Level 5 TEFL.
See teaching jobs in Saudi Arabia →
8. Spain: The Lifestyle Choice
Spain isn't the place to get rich, but it's one of the most rewarding places to live. Language assistants in Spanish public schools receive a monthly stipend of €800–1,000 for 14–16 hours a week, from autumn to the end of May.
With so few working hours, many assistants add private lessons to boost their income, and the rest of the time is yours to enjoy Spanish food, culture and travel.
9. Colombia: Adventure and Spanish Immersion
Colombia is ideal if you want to experience Latin America, learn Spanish and teach at the same time. Most teaching jobs pay COP 2.5M–4M a month, with higher salaries at private bilingual and international schools.
Savings are modest, but the low cost of living means you can live comfortably and travel the region.
You'll need: a TEFL certificate is generally expected. A degree helps but isn't always essential.
See teaching jobs in Colombia →
What Do You Need to Teach English Abroad?
Requirements vary by country, but nearly all the best-paying jobs on this list have one thing in common: they expect a recognised TEFL certificate.
A TEFL course teaches you how to plan lessons, manage a classroom and teach grammar, vocabulary and conversation confidently. Even where it isn't strictly required, it makes your application stronger and can help you secure a better salary.
Our 120-hour online TEFL course gives you:
- An accredited certificate that can be legalised for visa applications
- Lifetime access to study at your own pace
- 100+ ready-to-use lesson plans
- Free job placement support once you're qualified
Book your 120-hour TEFL for £63 (usually £99) →
Want a qualification that stands out in competitive markets such as the Middle East? Take a look at our Ofqual-regulated Level 5 TEFL.
Which Country Is Right for You?
The best destination depends on what matters most to you:
- Want to save as much as possible? Saudi Arabia, China, Uzbekistan or South Korea.
- First time teaching abroad? South Korea, Japan or Vietnam.
- Lifestyle over savings? Spain or Colombia.
- Don't have a degree yet? Read our guide to the best countries to teach English without a degree.
Still not sure? Our placement team helps teachers find the right programme every day. Tell us about your degree, nationality and when you'd like to start, and we'll suggest the best options for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country pays English teachers the most?
Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region offer some of the highest tax-free salaries, but they usually require a degree and teaching experience. For first-time teachers, China, Uzbekistan and South Korea offer some of the strongest packages.
Where can I save the most money teaching English?
Countries that provide free housing, such as South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan and many Chinese schools, offer the best savings potential, because rent is usually your biggest expense.
Can I teach English abroad without experience?
Yes. Many programmes, including EPIK in South Korea and many schools in China, Vietnam and Taiwan, welcome first-time teachers. A TEFL certificate is the best way to show employers you're ready to teach.
Do I need a TEFL certificate to teach abroad?
Most well-paid jobs ask for one, and many work visas require it. A 120-hour TEFL is the standard most employers look for.
When should I apply for 2027?
Many programmes recruit several months in advance, so autumn and winter are ideal times to apply for spring and summer 2027 starts. Getting your TEFL done early means you're ready to apply as soon as positions open.
Start Your Teaching Adventure Today
Wherever you want to go, the first step is the same: get qualified. Book your TEFL today, then browse our latest teaching jobs worldwide.
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