The 7 Best Destinations to Teach English

If you've always dreamed of exploring the world but didn't know how you could afford it, teaching English overseas is the ideal solution. As a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) professional, you can live and work in countless countries worldwide and truly experience a completely different way of life up close and personal.

If you're eager to teach English overseas, your first decision will be where you want to go. With that in mind, here are the seven best destinations to consider.

1. China

Job Availability: Strong demand

Average Salary: $1200 to $3500

Cost of Living: From as little as $400 monthly

Benefits: Health insurance, flights, housing 

Visa: Z visa

Degree: Yes

If you want a unique cultural experience and try out a different lifestyle, you should make China your first port of call. There's an enormous demand for English teachers here, so finding a post shouldn't be too difficult. The cost of living is low here too, especially if you're based outside the major cities, with average costs coming in as low as $400 in some locations. Since you can expect to receive a monthly salary of between $1200 and $3500, you should be able to enjoy a good quality of life. You can often enjoy perks and benefits as part of your role, such as health insurance, flights and housing to make life easier and even more affordable.

Obtaining your visa can take a while, so it's important to apply in advance, but as long as you've secured a job, you shouldn't have any difficulties. Teaching English in China brings a host of benefits, too. The Chinese culture is fascinating, and no matter which part of this vast country you head to, you can be sure there'll be plenty to see, do and experience. Over 3000 years of history means that there are numerous heritage sites to explore, from world-famous ones, such as the Great Wall, to little-known local temples.

2. South Korea

Job Availability: Reasonably plentiful, especially in major cities

Average Salary: Up to $4400 monthly

Cost of Living: $1000 monthly (approximately) 

Benefits: Inclusive fights, health insurance, housing, contract completion bonuses

Visa: E-2 visa

Degree: Yes

Over the past few years, South Korea has come to the attention of the West thanks to its popular movies and dramas like Parasite and Squid Game. It isn't surprising that it's proving to be a top choice for TEFL professionals. Although the cost of living is higher here than in many of its neighbouring countries, you can earn up to $4,400 monthly, depending on your role and location. With typical living costs around $1000 per month, you should still have sufficient left over to make the most of your spare time. Many jobs here come with bonuses, too, such as inclusive flights, housing and health insurance, as well as contract completion bonuses.

South Korea's demand for English teachers is growing all the time, so there's no shortage of work available. While the work culture can be challenging, with long hours expected, there's a multitude of advantages to make up for it. From Seoul's metropolitan delights to the nation's beautiful beaches and mountains, you're sure to have an amazing experience.

3. Vietnam

Job Availability: Plentiful 

Average Salary: Up to $2000 monthly 

Cost of Living: Approximately $1000 monthly 

Benefits: Varies depending on employer

Visa: LD visa and work permit

Degree: Usually needed but there may be opportunities available for those without a degree

Thanks to its stunning landscapes and laid-back culture, Vietnam is a great option for English teachers eager to enjoy an excellent work/life balance. The perks associated with teaching jobs here may not be quite as impressive as those offered in China and South Korea, but the cost of living is generally affordable at around $1000 per month, and you can earn double that amount from the best teaching positions.

If you love spending time in nature, you'll love Vietnam. Here you’ll find stunning landscapes that range from rivers and mountains to beaches and countryside. This lovely destination offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

4. Spain

Job Availability: Plentiful in all types of organisations, from international schools to language schools 

Average Salary: Up to $1770 monthly

Cost of Living: $814 approximately 

Benefits: Varies depending on employer

Visa: EU passport holders don’t need a visa. Otherwise, a work or working holiday visa is necessary 

Degree: Not always needed 

If you're eager to discover Europe while working as an English teacher, Spain could be your ideal destination. As one of the top European destinations for TEFL professionals, it offers a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle and a good work-life balance. Salaries may not be as high here as in some other countries, ranging between $690 and $1770 per month, but the cost of living is typically low, especially compared to that of its surrounding nations.

One of the best things about teaching English here is that you can hire a car and explore the many amazing attractions of this fascinating destination. No matter where you're based, you'll find history, culture and delicious cuisine around every corner. Beautiful cities like Barcelona, Seville, Madrid and Granada await, while lush countryside, spectacular mountains and gorgeous beaches are all within reach.

5. United Arab Emirates

Job Availability: Plentiful

Average Salary: Up to $5500 monthly

Cost of Living: $1500 approximately

Benefits: Inclusive flights, health cover, housing

Visa: Work visa is required

Degree: Some schools accept candidates without a degree

If commanding the highest possible salary is your goal, the UAE is calling you! Here, you earn up to $5,500 per month, and with an average monthly living cost of around $1500, you'll find it easy to save while taking the opportunity to live it up, especially thanks to the added perks like inclusive flights, medical cover, and housing that tend to come along with the best TEFL jobs.

You may find the way of life and culture here very different, but you’ll enjoy a unique experience, with easy access to other Middle Eastern destinations.

6. Thailand

Job Availability: Plentiful 

Average Salary: $850 to $2500 monthly

Cost of Living: $603 approximately (outside major cities)

Benefits: Variable depending on employer

Visa: Non-Immigrant B visa & work permit

Degree: Usually yes, but some smaller schools accept candidates without

The land of smiles has been a top destination choice among English teachers for some time, thanks to its friendly, welcoming people, rich culture, and diverse landscapes. There are also plenty of English teaching jobs available here since the demand for TEFL professionals is high.

Although salaries are lower than those on offer elsewhere at between $850 and $2500 a month, the cost of living, especially away from the main tourist resorts, is relatively low, too. The laidback working culture here ensures you'll have plenty of time to discover the country's bustling cities, famous beaches and heritage attractions. In your spare time, you'll also have the opportunity to visit other Southeast Asian destinations.

7. Japan

Job Availability: JET programme is available 

Average Salary: Up to $4000 per month 

Cost of Living: $1000 approximately

Benefits: Flights, housing

Visa: Either an Instructor Visa or a Specialist in Humanities Visa.

Degree: Typically needed, but it may be possible to find a job without one

For many TEFL professionals, Japan is their number one destination for finding the perfect overseas teaching job. Boasting dramatic landscapes, fascinating heritage and thriving cities, Japan has a unique culture that never gets dull, no matter where you're based.

Although the working culture here can be high-pressure, you'll receive some impressive benefits for your efforts, including an attractive salary of up to $4000 per month as well as perks like flights and housing to make sure your money goes even further. Japan is also an excellent choice if you want to take advantage of one of the Certified programs to teach English overseas, with the JET programme proving to be extremely popular with prospective English teachers who want to immerse themselves in Japanese culture.

These are just seven of the destinations you might want to consider if you've just obtained your TEFL certificate. If they've inspired you to get qualified, what are you waiting for?