What is the Average International School Teacher Salary in the Cayman Islands?

July 4, 2025
An international school building with a cayman islands flag flying on top

The Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory, is a paradise not just for its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters, but also for its top-notch international schools. These schools are renowned for their high educational standards and diverse student population. But what about the teachers who work tirelessly behind the scenes? What kind of salary can they expect? Let’s delve into the world of international school teaching in the Cayman Islands and explore the average salary for these educators.

A Look at the Average Salary

As with any profession, the salary of an international school teacher in the Cayman Islands can vary greatly depending on several factors. These include the teacher’s qualifications, years of experience, and the specific school they work at. However, on average, an international school teacher in the Cayman Islands can expect to earn between KYD 40,000 and KYD 60,000 per year. This is roughly equivalent to £37,000 to £55,000, or $48,000 to $72,000 in US dollars.

Compared to the average teacher salary in the UK, which is around £30,000, or in the US, where it’s approximately $60,000, it’s clear that teaching in the Cayman Islands can be quite lucrative. It’s also worth noting that salaries in the Cayman Islands are typically tax-free, which can significantly increase the take-home pay.

Factors Influencing Salary

Qualifications and Experience

Just like in any other profession, the qualifications and experience of a teacher play a significant role in determining their salary. Teachers with advanced degrees or specialised certifications often command higher salaries. Similarly, those with several years of teaching experience, particularly in international schools, are likely to earn more than their less experienced counterparts.

For instance, a teacher with a Master’s degree in Education and a decade of experience teaching at international schools could expect to earn towards the higher end of the salary range. Conversely, a newly qualified teacher with a Bachelor’s degree and little to no experience might find themselves at the lower end of the scale.

The School

The specific school a teacher works at can also influence their salary. Larger, more prestigious international schools often have bigger budgets and can afford to pay their teachers more. Smaller schools, on the other hand, might not have the same financial resources.

Additionally, some schools offer benefits like housing allowances, health insurance, and relocation assistance, which can significantly increase the overall compensation package. Therefore, when considering a teaching position in the Cayman Islands, it’s important to look at the whole package and not just the base salary.

Living Costs in the Cayman Islands

While the potential for a high salary might be enticing, it’s also important to consider the cost of living in the Cayman Islands. As a popular tourist destination and tax haven, the cost of living can be quite high. Rent, groceries, and dining out can all be significantly more expensive than in the UK or the US.

However, many teachers find that the higher salary, combined with the tax-free status, more than compensates for the higher living costs. Plus, there’s the added benefit of living in a tropical paradise!

Conclusion

Teaching at an international school in the Cayman Islands can be a rewarding and financially beneficial career choice. With an average salary that’s competitive with, and often higher than, those in the UK and the US, it’s an option worth considering for educators looking for a new challenge and a change of scenery.

However, it’s important to consider all the factors that can influence salary, as well as the cost of living in the Cayman Islands. By doing so, you can make an informed decision about whether teaching in this tropical paradise is the right move for you.

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