In Italy, English teachers can expect to earn between $1,000 to $1,500 per month. As one of Europe's top destinations for ESL teachers, Italy offers a multitude of job opportunities in sought after locations such as Florence and Venice. The competition for jobs in these areas can be intense, which is why qualifications and experience are often key. For those new to the field, metropolitan areas such as Rome or Milan might offer more opportunities.
Table of Contents
What are TEFL salaries in Italy?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Italy?
Who else employs English language teachers in Italy?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Italy?
What are TEFL salaries in Italy?
The typical salary for ESL teachers in Italy varies considerably depending on the employer and the location, but you can reasonably expect to earn in the region of $1,000 to $1,500 per month. In general, salaries in the northern cities such as Rome and Milan pay the most, while you may earn less in the south of the country. However, as the cost of living can often be significantly less in the south, the lower income is often not an issue. TEFL qualified teachers with plenty of experience have a good chance of earning the higher end of the scale, while those without a TEFL certification are likely to earn less. It is also common practice for teachers to supplement their income by teaching private students in their free time. Rates for private tutoring range from $15 to $30 per hour.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Italy?
In Italy, the main employers of English language teachers are state schools, private language academies, and private tutoring. State school positions, though well-paying with fewer working hours, are limited and demand proficiency in the Italian language. Private language academies, widely distributed across the country, offer the most opportunities. They typically require a TEFL certification, but some offer in-house training. Teachers here can expect a 20 to 28-hour work week, often including evenings, weekends, or split shifts. Though hourly rates can sometimes be lower than other venues, the job availability compensates for it. Another viable avenue is private tutoring, especially in university areas. This offers flexibility in hours and rates, with payments usually made directly in cash.
Who else employs English language teachers in Italy?
Other employment options for foreign teachers in Italy include English summer camps which offer short-term contracts during the summer months, teaching business related English in the corporate world, and assistant posts in university English language departments. These options are relatively small in number but tend to pay a good salary.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Italy?
In Italy, English teachers can expect a relatively high cost of living, with savings being somewhat limited. A significant expense is accommodation; a studio apartment in smaller towns may cost around $400 per month. However, in major cities like Milan or Rome, this can easily double. Given that most teaching contracts don't include accommodation, many teachers opt to share apartments, either with fellow teachers or locals, to substantially cut costs. Despite the expenses, a full-time teaching position, supplemented by private lessons, generally ensures a comfortable lifestyle.