How Much Can You Really Earn Teaching English in Spain?
If you’re dreaming of living in Spain and teaching English in Madrid, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: how much money can I actually make?
The answer depends on your qualifications, where you teach, and the type of job you land. But
don’t worry — we’ll break it all down for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore realistic salary expectations for English teachers in Spain, plus tips to
increase your income, manage your budget, and live comfortably.
💼 Typical TEFL Salaries in Spain
Salaries for English teachers in Spain vary depending on:
• Type of job
• Location
• Experience and certifications
• Number of hours worked
• Whether you’re EU or non-EU (visa type)
Here’s what you can expect in 2025:
👉 Tip: Combine academy work + private classes to boost your income!
📍 Salaries by City in Spain
Where you live also plays a big role in how much you earn and spend.
💡 Madrid tends to offer higher pay and more job opportunities, which is why many teachers
choose to start here.
👉 See what it’s like living in Madrid as a TEFL teacher
🧑🏫 What Influences Your Earning Potential?
✅ Your Qualifications
A TEFL certification with teaching practice makes a big difference.
👉 Our in-person course in Madrid gives you both.
✅ Your VisaWith a student visa, you can legally work part-time (up to 20 hours/week).
👉 We can help you apply for the visa too
✅ Your Schedule
Most academies operate in the afternoon/evening, so filling your mornings with online teaching
or tutoring can double your income.
✅ Your Networking
Many tutoring opportunities come through word of mouth or Facebook groups especially in
Madrid.
💡 Realistic Monthly Budget (Madrid Example)
Most TEFL teachers in Madrid live comfortably on €1,200–€1,600/month especially if they tutor on the side.
🤑 How to Earn More as a TEFL Teacher in Spain
1. Offer private classes
Charge €15–€25/hour. Teach at cafés, online, or students’ homes.
2. Teach English online
Use platforms like Italki, Preply, or Cambly in your spare time.
3. Work summer camps or intensives
Many schools offer extra contracts in July or August.
4. Teach Business English
Often pays more and has clients in the morning.5. Market yourself on local platforms
Try LingoBongo Madrid, TusClasesParticulares, or Wallapop.
💬 Is It Enough to Live On?
Yes — but planning is key. Most teachers break even or save a little. If you’re strategic with
housing and offer private lessons, you’ll do just fine.
If your goal is to build teaching experience, enjoy life abroad, and learn Spanish, then teaching
in Spain is an incredible opportunity.
🎓 Get Started with Confidence
Want help with training, visas, housing advice, and job placement?
👉 TEFL Madrid Academy offers a complete program that helps you earn, live, and teach in
Spain with full support.
📝 Summary: What You Can Expect to Earn
You might not get rich but you’ll gain life-changing experience, new skills, and the adventure of a lifetime.
