For TEFL/ESL teachers with Western degrees, Asia offers some of the most lucrative and rewarding teaching opportunities in the world. With high salaries, low living costs, and incredible travel experiences, it’s no surprise that thousands of English teachers flock to Asia every year.
But which countries pay the best? And where can you enjoy the best mix of work, travel, and culture? In this blog, we’ll break down the highest-paying TEFL/ESL jobs in Asia and highlight the most popular destinations for adventurous teachers.
1. South Korea: High Salaries & Great Benefits
South Korea is one of the top-paying countries for English teachers in Asia. Public schools (through programs like EPIK) and private hagwons (academies) offer competitive salaries, free housing, and flight reimbursements.
Salary & Benefits:
- Public Schools (EPIK): ₩2.0–2.7 million/month ($1,500–$2,100) + housing, flights, severance pay
- Hagwons: ₩2.1–3.0 million/month ($1,600–$2,300) + housing, sometimes flights
- International Schools: $2,500–4,500/month (for licensed teachers)
Why Teach in South Korea?
- High savings potential
- Excellent healthcare system
- Vibrant cities (Seoul, Busan) and beautiful countryside
- Strong expat community
2. Japan: A Perfect Mix of Tradition & Modernity
Japan remains a dream destination for many ESL teachers, offering a unique blend of ancient culture and cutting-edge cities. Programs like JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme) and private eikaiwas (English conversation schools) provide stable jobs.
Salary & Benefits:
- JET Programme: ¥3.36–4.0 million/year ($22,000–$27,000) + housing assistance
- Eikaiwa Schools: ¥250,000–300,000/month ($1,700–$2,100)
- International Schools: $3,000–5,000/month (for licensed teachers)
Why Teach in Japan?
- Rich cultural experiences (temples, festivals, onsens)
- Safe, clean, and efficient public transport
- Great food and nightlife in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto
3. China: The Highest Earning Potential
China is the biggest ESL market in the world, with demand for native English speakers at an all-time high. International schools, training centers, and universities offer some of the highest salaries in Asia.
Salary & Benefits:
- Training Centers: ¥15,000–30,000/month ($2,100–$4,300) + housing
- International Schools: $3,000–6,000/month + benefits
- Universities: ¥10,000–20,000/month (lighter workload)
Why Teach in China?
- Huge savings potential (especially in Tier 1 cities like Shanghai & Beijing)
- Low cost of living outside major cities
- Endless travel opportunities (Great Wall, Zhangjiajie, Xi’an)
4. Taiwan: Friendly Culture & Great Work-Life Balance
Taiwan is an underrated gem for ESL teachers, offering a relaxed lifestyle, friendly locals, and decent salaries. Public schools (like FETP) and buxibans (cram schools) are the main employers.
Salary & Benefits:
- Public Schools: NT$50,000–70,000/month ($1,600–$2,300)
- Buxibans: NT$60,000–80,000/month ($2,000–$2,600)
- International Schools: $2,500–4,500/month
Why Teach in Taiwan?
- Affordable healthcare & high quality of life
- Stunning nature (Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake)
- Delicious street food & night markets
5. Vietnam: Fast-Growing Market with Low Cost of Living
Vietnam has become one of the hottest destinations for ESL teachers due to its booming economy, low living costs, and vibrant culture. Language centers (like ILA, Apollo, VUS) and public schools hire thousands of teachers yearly.
Salary & Benefits:
- Language Centers: $1,500–2,500/month (full-time)
- Public Schools: $1,200–2,000/month
- International Schools: $2,500–4,500/month
Why Teach in Vietnam?
- Very low cost of living (can save $500–1,000/month)
- Amazing food (pho, banh mi, fresh seafood)
- Beautiful beaches (Da Nang, Phu Quoc) and bustling cities (Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi)
6. United Arab Emirates (Middle East/Asia Crossover): Tax-Free Salaries
While not strictly Asia, the UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi) is a top-paying destination for licensed teachers. International schools offer luxury lifestyles with high salaries.
Salary & Benefits:
- International Schools: $3,500–6,000/month (tax-free) + housing, flights, bonuses
- Universities: $4,000–8,000/month
Why Teach in the UAE?
- Tax-free income = huge savings
- Luxury lifestyle (malls, beaches, desert adventures)
- Travel hub for Europe, Africa, and Asia
Best Countries for Travel & Culture
If you want to teach and travel, these countries offer the best mix of work and adventure:
- Thailand – Beaches, temples, and a laid-back lifestyle (though salaries are lower: $1,000–2,000/month).
- Vietnam – Affordable, dynamic, and packed with history.
- Japan – Perfect for culture lovers (but higher living costs).
- China – Endless exploration opportunities.
- Taiwan – Underrated, with friendly locals and great food.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Teach?
- For the highest pay: China, UAE, South Korea
- For work-life balance: Taiwan, Vietnam
- For culture & travel: Japan, Thailand
If you’re a TEFL/ESL teacher with a Western degree, Asia offers unbeatable opportunities. Whether you want to save money, explore ancient cultures, or enjoy city life, there’s a perfect destination waiting for you.
Which country would you choose? Let us know in the comments!
