In May 2008, preschool and child care program administrators had median annual wages of $39,940. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,290 and $54,680. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,910 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $77,150.
In May 2008, elementary and secondary school administrators had median annual wages of $83,880. The middle 50 percent earned between $68,360 and $102,830. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $55,580 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $124,250.
In May 2008, postsecondary school administrators had median annual wages of $80,670. The middle 50 percent earned between $58,940 and $113,860. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $45,050 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $160,500.
Salaries of education administrators depend on several factors, including the location and enrollment level of the school or school district.
According to a survey of public schools conducted by Educational Research Service, average salaries for principals and assistant principals in the 2007-2008 school year were as follows:
| Principals: | |
| Senior high school | $97,486 |
| Jr. high/middle school | 91,334 |
| Elementary school | 85,907 |
| Assistant principals: | |
| Senior high school | 79,391 |
| Jr. high/middle school | 76,053 |
| Elementary school | 71,192 |
According to the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources, median annual salaries for selected administrators in higher education during the 2008-2009 school year were as follows:
| Chief academic officer | $158,000 |
| Academic deans: | |
| Business | 150,000 |
| Arts and sciences | 134,632 |
| Graduate programs | 130,000 |
| Education | 128,550 |
| Nursing | 125,400 |
| Health-related professions | 120,980 |
| Continuing education | 109,925 |
| Occupational studies/vocational education | 92,622 |
| Other administrators: | |
| Chief development officer | 141,712 |
| Dean of students | 88,280 |
| Director, student financial aid | 74,261 |
| Registrar | 71,764 |
| Director, student activities | 54,931 |
Benefits for education administrators are generally very good. Many get 4 or 5 weeks of vacation every year and have generous health and pension packages. Many colleges and universities offer free tuition to employees and their families.