Ann Arbor vs Lansing: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Lansing, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,688 | $73,645▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.10 | $35.40▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,581▲ | $47,844 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,732▲ | $50,955 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,057▲ | $78,855 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $95,315▲ | $86,984 |
| Total Employed | 1,630 | 1,730▲ |
Verdict
Lansing, MI offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Ann Arbor.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Lansing is $8,957 (13.85%). Lansing's median is +14.01% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $45,734,Lansing spans $39,140. Ann Arbor 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, Lansing ($77,528 effective) pays 20.90% more than Ann Arbor ($64,124 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($95,315)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($73,645/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,730 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $77,528)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Ann Arbor grew -9.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.1% growth in Lansing over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$70,370 (2019) → $64,060 (2025)
Lansing, MI
$56,040 (2019) → $72,930 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Lansing, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
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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