Maryland Ranks Among Top States for Teachers in 2025 National Report

A new national analysis ranks Maryland as the sixth-best state for teachers in the United States. The report from WalletHub evaluated all 50 states and Washington D.C. across two dozen key metrics. It provides a snapshot of educator support, compensation, and working conditions.

The findings arrive amid a national conversation about teacher retention and compensation. According to the report, the average teacher’s salary has significantly decreased when adjusted for inflation over the past decade and a half.

Key Factors Behind Maryland’s High Ranking

Maryland’s strong performance is attributed to several strengths. The state’s overall school system quality was ranked ninth best in the nation. It also secured the top spot for having a robust digital learning plan in place.

Financial factors also contributed to the ranking. Maryland placed 15th for average starting teacher salary adjusted for the cost of living. The state also ranked 15th for its ten-year change in teacher salaries, indicating positive momentum.

Virginia claimed the number one position on the list. It was praised for offering the highest income growth potential for teachers in the country. Hawaii was ranked last in the comprehensive analysis.

Areas for Improvement Identified for Maryland

Despite its high overall ranking, the report highlighted areas where Maryland falls short. The state placed 28th nationally for its pupil-to-teacher ratio. This suggests classrooms may be more crowded than in many other states.

Maryland also ranked 26th for teachers’ income growth potential. This metric measures long-term earning prospects for educators throughout their careers. The state was ranked 23rd for projected competition in the year 2032.

WalletHub analyst Cassandra Happe emphasized the importance of state support. She stated that the best states for teachers provide competitive pay, comprehensive resources, and a positive work environment. This helps attract and retain high-quality educators.

Maryland’s position as a top state for teachers highlights a commitment to education while revealing specific challenges to address. The full analysis offers a crucial benchmark for policymakers and school administrators aiming to better support educators.

Info at your fingertips

Which state was ranked the best for teachers?

Virginia was ranked as the best state for teachers in the 2025 WalletHub report. It earned the top spot due to its high income growth potential and strong school system.

What was Maryland’s best ranking category?

Maryland ranked first in the nation for having a digital learning plan. This indicates strong state-level support for integrating technology into education.

How does teacher pay factor into the rankings?

The report analyzes both starting salaries and income growth over time, adjusted for each state’s cost of living. It found that real wages for teachers have fallen significantly in recent years.

Where can I find the full report?

The complete “2025’s Best & Worst States for Teachers” report is available on the WalletHub website. It includes a full breakdown of all 50 states and Washington D.C.