special education teacher hourly pay

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Free printable to elevate your AI game 🤖

15 Top-Paying States for Special Education Teachers

Plus tips for maximizing your salary.

In the education job market, special education teachers are always in high demand. In 2019, 44 states reported special education teacher shortages, and by 2022, that jumped to 48 (source: NPR ). Federal law ( IDEA ) states that students with disabilities must be taught by fully licensed teachers. This means that states may try to get creative with staffing special education classrooms. In the past, states have tried to attract and retain special education teachers with alternative licensure programs and other pathways to licensure. But recently, they’ve been turning to cold hard cash in the form of special education teacher signing bonuses and salary increases.

Show Me the Money: States Giving Cash for Special Ed

In 2020, Hawaii started paying special education teachers $10,000 more per year. (Source: NPR ).

Even places that don’t report as much challenge filling special education classrooms are putting their money where their mouth is. Metro Atlanta, Georgia, is offering $5,000 sign-on incentives to special education teachers (Source: The74million.org ).

It’s not clear if salary bumps work—Oklahoma provides a 5% salary bump for special education teachers, but that hasn’t necessarily decreased shortages. According to Education Week , some districts have increased special education teacher salary incentives to as high as 10% or offered signing bonuses of $2,000 to $3,000.

I don’t know about you, but my paycheck matters.

Aside from the cash bonuses, in 2023, special education teachers are paid an average of $54,290 across all states, according to an April 2023 Zippia study . This is an average of $26.10 per hour based on working 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year (but who’s calculating).

Top 15 States for Special Education Teacher Salary

1. maryland.

Median salary: $76,282

Hourly rate: $36.72

Salary range: $53,000–$108,000

Median salary: $77,146 ADVERTISEMENT

Hourly rate: $37.09

Salary range: $64,000–$91,000

3. Washington

Median salary: $63,434

Hourly rate: $30.50

Salary range: $45,000–$87,000

4. New York

Median salary: $64,250

Hourly rate: $30.89

Salary range: $45,000–$90,000

5. California

Median salary: $63,874

Hourly rate: $30.71

Salary range: $45,000–$89,000

6. Connecticut

Median salary: $60,164

Hourly rate: $28.93

Salary range: $42,000–$84,000

Median salary: $59,266

Hourly rate: $28.49

Salary range: $42,000–$81,000

8.  New Jersey

Median salary: $60,228

Hourly rate: $28.96

Salary range: $42,000–$85,900

9.  Massachusetts

Median salary: $58,591

Hourly rate: $28.17

Salary range: $42,000–$80,000

10.  Virginia

Median salary: $56,559

Hourly rate: $27.19

Salary range: $40,000–$79,000

11.  Rhode Island

Median salary: $55,984

Hourly rate: $25.92

Salary range: $40,000–$78,000

12.  Delaware

Median salary: $55,147

Hourly rate: $26.51

Salary range: $38,000–$78,000

13.  Wyoming

Median salary: $55,244

Hourly rate: $26.56

Salary range: $41,000–$74,000

14.  Pennsylvania

Median salary: $54,620

Hourly rate: $25.78

Salary range: $37,000–$75,000

15.  Illinois

Median salary: $51,414

Hourly rate: $24.72

Salary range: $37,000–$70,000

Don’t see your state on the list? Find it in the Zippia report .

How to maximize your special education teacher salary.

Once in special education, you can direct your expertise to maximize pay for the job.

Work in a specialized teaching location.

Teaching as a homebound teacher and in other specialized teaching locations may boost your pay. Homebound teachers provide services for students who are required to learn from home.

Earn credits for speech-language pathology.

If you’d like to earn more money and are up for some additional education, earn credentials to become a speech-language pathologist .

Work for a staffing company instead of a school district.

Education staffing companies like Kaleidoscope Education Solutions or the Birch Agency provide special education teachers through contracted services, which may pay higher than going directly through a district.

Would you sign up to teach special education for a boost in pay? Share on our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group  on Facebook.

For more articles like this,  be sure to subscribe to our newsletters..

You Might Also Like

New Exclusive Survey: Where Are Teachers Happiest and Why?

(Spoiler alert: It's not the places doing jeans day.) Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

How to Become a Special Education Teacher

Jump to section, what are the requirements for special education teachers, who will my students be, what does a special education teacher do, special education teacher jobs & job description, where can certified special education teachers teach, special education teacher organizations & associations, what is the salary of a special education teacher.

Great teachers empathize with children, respect them, and believe that each one has something special that can be built on. Ann Lieberman

A career as a special education teacher will involve instructing students with emotional, physical and learning disabilities. Special education teachers may work with individuals of all ages from infants to adults. Their job will consist of helping their students develop problem solving, motor and social skills needed to complete their education and live independent lives. They may work with their students on personal and life skills in addition to academic curriculum and advancement.

Qualities of a Special Education Teacher

Special education teacher requirements include fantastic communication skills since they will be working with students, parents, and educators. They must be able to work in a one-on-one setting with students as well as in a group setting. Being able to meet the individual needs of their students is very important. Good computer skills and organization skills are important due to needing to keep detailed records of each student's progress. Being familiar with assistive technology devices in a classroom is a plus. An encouraging personality as well as the ability to be creative and flexible are all great qualities for a special education teacher.

Job Growth for Special Education Teachers

The employment growth for special education teachers is 3% at the national level for the 10-year period ending in 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This will vary according to which state you live in, however, and be driven by increased demand for special education services, and the need to replace teachers leaving their occupations.

All certified special education teachers in the United States must have at least a bachelor's degree and hold a state-issued license or certificate specific to teaching special education students. However, each state has their own specific licensing requirements.

Education Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Many universities and colleges offer special education degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.

Special education teacher degree classes will include gaining knowledge of disabilities like autism, downs syndrome, visual impairment and more. Students will also learn practical procedures for teaching science, math and reading skills to students who have special needs.

Specialized classes could examine topics like technology for differentiated instruction, low incidence disabilities and more. Special education teacher training will also include curriculum development courses and supervised classroom student teaching. Most special education teachers earn a degree in Special Education or Education .

Special Education Teacher Preparation Program

If your school does not offer a degree in special education, you can enroll in a special education teacher preparation program after receiving your degree. This type of program will lead you toward becoming a certified special education teacher. Licensure/certification can be attained through the completion of a teacher education program that is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Due to the high level of specialization among special education teachers, many states may require additional training before you can get a professional license.

Tests to Pass if you Want to Become a Special Education Teacher

Prospective special education teachers are also required to take and pass all special education content area assessments in order to obtain certification at the special education level. These standardized tests vary from state to state. Licensing and competency exams should be taken in the state where you wish to teach.

Find Information About Becoming a Teacher In Your State

Each state has different requirements for becoming a certified teacher. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington, DC
• West Virginia

Special Education Teacher by Degree Level

The tables and charts below break down the education level obtained as averaged across the U.S.

Data taken from BLS Educational attainment for workers 25 years and older by detailed occupation, 2010-11 (http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_111.htm)

Special education teachers will have students with learning, physical and emotional disabilities. Many special education students may have delayed motor and social skills and will need to be worked with in these areas on a daily basis. Special education students can range from pre-k to 12th grade, depending on your area of specialty.

Special education teachers will work with students who have a wide range of disabilities ranging from learning, physical, mental and emotional. They are responsible for adapting general education lessons to meet the needs of their students. Subjects taught include reading, writing and math as well as basic skills like literacy and communication techniques. Their students may have disabilities ranging from mild to moderate to severe.

Job Duty Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers must be able to meet their students' needs to ensure that each individual student receives proper attention and the assistance needed to succeed in school and life. This may include providing one-on-one assistance in the setting of a general classroom, adapting materials, providing appropriate testing opportunities and more.

Special education teachers provide the families of their students the tools they need to grow as independent individuals in their communities. These teachers work with parents, other teachers and paraprofessionals to create individual education plans (IEP) for their students in order to help meet the individual needs of each child.

A complex and demanding career path, the role of the special education teacher is difficult to encapsulate briefly, given that every teacher's caseload of students looks very different from the next. While there are similarities between elementary to secondary, there are differences as well.

Becoming an Elementary Special Education Teacher

Often considered a generalist (though perhaps with special interest or training in one or two areas of need) elementary special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can. Elementary special education teachers:

• Work with students who have Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), autism, Asperger's syndrome, those who are blind, low-vision, deaf or hard-of-hearing, who have Central Auditory Processing Delays (CAP-D), physical disabilities, cognitive impairments or developmental delays.
• Spearhead the development of an Individual Education Plan each year as a working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for students
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks
• Meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Mentor and advise professional support staff such as speech pathology, audiology, interpreting, psychological assessment, occupational therapy, social work and medical services
• Ensure that accommodations or modifications during instructional time are also in place during assessments
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from elementary to high school with post-secondary planning being a relevant goal and timeline
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every success is measurable
• Communicate proactively and professionally about student assessment and behavior with teaching and non-teaching staff, individual students, their families and associated professionals, bearing in mind the impact of confidentiality regarding vulnerable persons
• Support the school's culture and practices for inclusion through extracurricular and co-curricular activities and staff leadership

Becoming a High School Special Education Teacher

Often considered a specialist (though perhaps a generalist due to diversity of need or size of school population) high school special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can, and then some. High school special education teachers:

• Assess student learning needs in the classroom on a holistic basis, taking into account the students current and past achievements, current cultural and familial framework, and future goals
• Spearhead the continuation of an accurate and effective Individual Education Plan each year as an editable working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for student growth
• Act as a daily point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including the student themselves as their individual need dictates
• Act as a friendly face and advocate, helping students learn the valuable skill of self-advocacy as they approach the end of high school
• Function as a resource for school to work transitioning
• Advocate for and promote students for extensive co-operative education placements both in and outside of the school
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks; keep rigorous metrics
• Proactively meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Suggest beneficial reductions in support for the student to foster self-reliance, reduction in vulnerability, and independence
• Understand theories of adolescent development and how special needs may alter these developmental arcs
• Advocate on behalf of the student's needs to classroom teachers and administration, either individually and on an ad-hoc basis or in a more formal setting
• In-service teaching staff, support staff and administration on student behavior and general best practices for interaction and engagement
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from high school to post-secondary education or job training. Ensure timelines are accurate; work backward from end-goal.
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every small success is measurable

Certified special education teachers have many employment avenues open to them, including consultation, policy development, advocacy and administration.

Special education teachers can work in elementary schools, charter schools and private schools.

Public Schools

Public schools are required to admit any student who lives within the district, regardless of ability, ethnicity or socioeconomic backgrounds. In public schools, special education teachers tend to work with a diverse group of children with varying needs. Prospective public special education teachers are often required to apply directly to the district prior to seeking employment at a specific school.

Private Schools

Since private schools charge tuition for a child to attend, special education services are generally not free. Many smaller private schools do not even offer special education services. With that said, families of students with special needs may be required to hire a private one-on-one aide to assist the child. These schools are generally governed by a private school board or organization and may have religious affiliations.

If a prospective special education teacher is interested in teaching at a private school, they should check with the school in which they wish to teach to find out specific criteria. Many private schools do not have the same requirements for special education teachers as their public school counterparts. In some cases, relevant experience or a bachelor's degree will suffice.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are independent schools that do not require tuition. They have more flexibility than public schools, but are expected to perform better and have a greater accountability. Charter schools are typically smaller and more selective. They may have additional requirements for their education teachers. However, some charter schools may not have dedicated special education services. To inquire, contact the charter school of your interest.

NASET - National Association of Special Education Teachers: NASET is a national membership organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to those preparing for or teaching in the field of special education.

CEC - Council for Exception Children: The Council for Exceptional Children is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of children and youth with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.

IASE - International Association of Special Education: The IASE works to improve the quality of life and service delivery for all individuals with special needs.

NAPSEC - National Association of Private Special Education Centers: NAPSEC is a nonprofit association that supports access to appropriate special education programs with more than 200 programs nationally and over 400 at the state level through the Council of Affiliated State Associations.

The median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,030 in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with entry-level teachers earning less than $40,730, and the highest 10% of experienced teachers earning more than $98,530 per year.

In addition to the salary, educators get great health and retirement benefits. Given the degree of specialty training that a special education teacher receives, he or she has an average salary that is somewhat higher than their mainstream counterparts, although private school teachers do earn less than public school teachers. Like other teaching roles, salaries are based mostly on experience and education.

Visit our Teacher Salary-What to Expect? page to find out more.

(Salary data for special education teachers reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2019. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed March 2021.)

Special Education Teachers (Preschool)

Salary (2022) and job outlook (2012 to 2020) by state.

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) is $69,620, with an estimated 22,970 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 16.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) (SOC Code: 25-2051)

Salary (2022) By Largest Metropolitan Areas

Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School)

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) is $68,580, with an estimated 195,010 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 6.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) (SOC Code: 25-2052)

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

Special Education Teacher salary

Average special education teacher salary, how much does a special education teacher make.

The average special education teacher salary in the United States is $54,290. Special education teacher salaries typically range between $39,000 and $73,000 yearly. The average hourly rate for special education teachers is $26.1 per hour.

Special education teacher salary is impacted by location, education, and experience. Special education teachers earn the highest average salary in Maryland.

Where can a Special Education Teacher earn more?

Special education teacher salary estimates from across the web, average special education teacher salary by state.

The highest-paying states for special education teachers are Maryland, Alaska, and Washington. The lowest average special education teacher salary states are Arizona, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

• County View

Highest paying states for special education teachers

Highest paying cities for special education teachers

The highest-paying cities for special education teachers are Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, and Richmond, CA.

Special Education Teachers are the most in-demand in these five cities:

• Baltimore, MD
• Washington, DC
• Richmond, CA
• New York, NY
• Ashburn, VA

Special Education Teacher salary details

A special education teacher's salary ranges from $39,000 a year at the 10th percentile to $73,000 at the 90th percentile.

What is a special education teacher's salary?

Highest paying special education teacher jobs

The highest paying types of special education teachers are science teacher, student teacher, and special educator.

How would you rate the starting salaries for Special Education Teachers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?

Patricia Rogan Ph.D.

Professor, Special Education/Urban Teacher Education , Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis

Top companies hiring special education teachers now:

• Chicago Public Schools Jobs (214)
• District of Columbia Public Schools Jobs (99)
• Los Angeles Unified School District Jobs (128)
• Houston ISD Foundation Jobs (145)
• The School District of Philadelphia Jobs (145)

Which companies pay special education teachers the most?

Special education teacher salaries at Baltimore City Public Schools and Boston Public Schools are the highest-paying according to our most recent salary estimates. In addition, the average special education teacher salary at companies like Maxim Healthcare Group and Prince George's County Memorial Library System are highly competitive.

Wage gap by gender, race and education

Special education teacher salary trends.

The average special education teacher salary has risen by $6,048 over the last ten years. In 2014, the average special education teacher earned $48,242 annually, but today, they earn $54,290 a year. That works out to a 6% change in pay for special education teachers over the last decade.

Compare special education teacher salaries for cities or states with the national average over time.

Average special education teacher salary over time

Compare special education teacher salaries for individual cities or states with the national average.

Special Education Teacher salary by year

Recently added special education teacher salaries

Special Education Teacher salary FAQs

What state pays special education teachers the most, how do i know if i'm being paid fairly as a special education teacher, what is a good starting salary for a special education teacher, how much do first-year special education teachers make, where do special ed teachers get paid the most.

Search for special education teacher jobs

• Zippia Careers
• Education, Training, and Library Industry
• Special Education Teacher
• Special Education Teacher Salary

Browse education, training, and library jobs

Average Special Education Teacher Salary

The average salary for a Special Education Teacher is $48,268 in 2024

Featured Content

How do special education teachers rate their jobs, common health benefits for a special education teacher, gender breakdown for special education teachers.

FAQs About Special Education Teachers

What is the highest pay for special education teachers.

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Special Education Teacher is $70k / year

What is the lowest pay for Special Education Teachers?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Special Education Teacher is $35k / year

How can Special Education Teachers increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Special Education Teacher is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Special Education Teacher that oversees more junior Special Education Teachers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.

Special Education Teacher Salary and Career Outlook

Are you ready to discover your college program?

A special education teacher is responsible for teaching students with learning, mental, physical, and/or emotional disabilities.

Source: BLS

What Is a Special Education Teacher?

A special education teacher is responsible for teaching students with learning, mental, physical, and/or emotional disabilities. Most special education teachers work in public schools, though some work in private schools. Public school special education teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a state-issued license, while private school teachers typically just need a bachelor’s degree. This guide covers special education teaching careers, including degree options, licensure requirements, and career advancement opportunities.

What Does a Special Education Teacher Do?

Special education teachers adapt and develop new general education lessons for students with disabilities. Teachers in this specialty also help students with disabilities to incorporate skills into their daily activities. Special education teachers primarily teach students from preschool through high school, though some work with adults in college or vocational programs. Special education teachers regularly collaborate with other specialists, educators, administrators, and parents.

Common duties for special education teachers include:

• Assessing a students’ skills and needs
• Adapting lessons to students’ learning needs
• Implementing and monitoring the progress of individualized education plans
• Updating parents and support staff on students’ progress
• Preparing students to transition into life after graduation

Special education teachers may specialize in working with students with mild, moderate, or severe disabilities. They may also focus on a particular physical, sensory, or emotional disability. For instance, some special education teachers work exclusively with autistic children. Most special education teachers work in elementary schools, followed by secondary schools. Some of these professionals teach in exclusively special education environments, while others work in general classrooms.

Characteristics of a Special Education Teacher

Special education teachers provide students with basic skills training and mentorship. Successful special education teachers possess the following characteristics:

• Resourcefulness
• Communication skills
• Critical thinking abilities
• Interpersonal skills

Special education teachers must also understand new and emerging technology, such as assistive learning support technology.

Become a Special Education Teacher

All special education teachers need a bachelor’s degree. Public school special education teachers also need a state-issued license. Private schools do not typically require teachers to hold licensure. Some states require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in special education, while others allow candidates with a degree in education and a minor in special education to apply for licensure.

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for special education teachers. Prospective students should look for programs with accreditation through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which ensures that program content and training meet teaching and licensure standards.

Most bachelor’s degrees in special education comprise about 120 credits and include a teacher-training field component, similar to a practicum or internship. Students can typically complete a bachelor’s degree in four years of full-time study, though some programs, particularly online options, offer accelerated timelines.

Students take courses on topics like pedagogy, teacher education diversity, and foundations of teaching in special education. Many programs offer dual degrees leading to licensure in both special education and a teaching class, such as elementary education.

Master’s Degree Programs

A master’s degree prepares special education teachers for leadership roles. Additionally, some states require candidates with a bachelor’s degree and an initial teaching license to complete a master’s in special education to become fully certified. Students should look for master’s programs with CAEP accreditation to ensure they meet certification requirements.

Some schools offer majors in subspecialties of special education, such as autism, learning disabilities and behavioral disorders, or early childhood special education. Most master’s degrees comprise around 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete, though accelerated options exist.

Learners pursuing a master’s in special education study topics like assessment and planning, instruction, and adaptive teaching and learning for special education, usually culminating in a capstone course. Many programs require students to complete a student-teaching experience in their specialty.

Doctoral Degree Programs

A doctoral degree prepares special education teachers for top positions in the field as well as research and postsecondary teaching positions. Students may pursue a Ph.D. or Ed.D. in special education or in a subspecialty such as autism spectrum disorders or assistive technologies. Both types of degrees include interdisciplinary coursework rooted in special education theory and research, but Ph.D. programs typically focus on research, while Ed.D. programs focus more on practice.

Doctoral students can typically tailor the degree to their interests through independent study projects and dissertations. Most Ph.D. and Ed.D. candidates complete their degree in 3-6 years, with Ph.D. programs often taking longer to complete than Ed.D. programs. Graduates qualify for leadership roles, like superintendent and principal, as well as research and postsecondary teaching opportunities.

Professional Licensure and Certifications

All public school teachers need a state-issued license to practice. Requirements for a standard teaching license vary by state but typically include the completion of a bachelor’s degree and teacher-training program and passing scores on general and subject tests. Candidates must also pass a background check.

Candidates can often take the Praxis I test to meet general test requirements for licensure. Students must also take a subject test in the subject they plan to teach, this test is commonly offered at the end of a state-approved teacher-training program. Some states require additional education, experience, and/or credentialing exams for special education teacher certification. Students should check their state board for individual licensing requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you become a special education teacher.

Special education teachers in private and public schools need at least a bachelor’s degree. Public school educators also need a state-issued license.

What colleges offer special education degrees?

Many colleges and universities offer special education programs at all levels of study, though a bachelor’s degree is the entry-level education requirement for special education teachers.

Is special education a major?

Many schools offer special education as a standalone major, often with a focus on a particular school level, such as elementary education.

How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in special education?

Most bachelor’s degrees take four years of full-time study to complete, though some schools offer accelerated timelines.

Do special education teachers get paid more than other teachers?

Special education teachers earn slightly more than non-special-education teachers in a comparable age group. For example, kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn $57,980, on average, compared to the average kindergarten and elementary special educator’s salary of $59,390 per year.

Can you get a special education degree online?

Yes, many schools offer online special education degrees. The flexibility of an online degree particularly appeals to students with work and family obligations.

Best Online Colleges of 2024

Online college has made accessible education a reality for many. Discover what online colleges do best and what programs you can choose from.

Best Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Best Online Colleges to Start Anytime

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

Special education teacher salary

The average salary for a special education teacher in the United States is around $54,000 per year.

Special education teachers earn an average yearly salary of $ 54,000 . Wages typically start from $ 24,000 and go up to $ 85,000 .

18 % below national average ● Updated in 2023

Special education teacher earnings by seniority

Top-level special education teacher earnings begin at :.

$ 40.87 per hour

$ 85,000 per year

Senior-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 33.17 per hour

$ 69,000 per year

Mid-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 25.96 per hour

$ 54,000 per year

Junior-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 19.23 per hour

$ 40,000 per year

Starting level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 11.54 per hour

$ 24,000 per year

Approximate values based on highest and lowest earning segments.

Special education teacher salary by state

How do special education teacher salaries compare to similar careers?

Special education teachers earn 6% less than similar careers in the United States. On average, they make less than distance learning coordinators but more than elementary school teachers.

Source: CareerExplorer (Aggregated)

Special Education Teacher Salary

Rising numbers of autism, ADHD other diagnoses are helping drive the demand for special education services throughout the nation, putting an unprecedented strain on our nation’s schools to attract and retain special ed teachers. And while this is creating some real challenges for schools to overcome, for aspiring and practicing special education teachers, it simply means better opportunities to lock in a great position with the district of their choosing.

While teachers in just about every subject and grade level are dealing with the challenges of having to pick and move to a new area where they’re lucky enough to land a position, special educators often find themselves with multiple offers to consider.

Federal, State, and Local Incentives for Special Education Teachers

Salary trends for special education teachers according to location and licensure level, the rising number of students with ieps is driving demand for special education teachers, state-by-state guide to special education teacher salaries.

Special education teachers are bound to the same salary schedules as their colleagues in other subjects and specialty areas, largely due to guidelines set forth by state teacher unions.

So, while special education shortages persist throughout the nation, school districts cannot deviate from the set salary schedules as a way to recruit new special education talent. However, the federal government, state education agencies, and local school districts can and often do provide other financial incentives in an effort to attract and retain them.

Teachers working in state teacher shortage areas recognized by the U.S. Department are eligible to receive special benefits from the federal government. For example, the TEACH (Teacher Education Assistants for College and Higher Education) Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year for students who agree to serve as a teacher in a high-need field that serves students from low-income families. Special education consistently manages to land toward the top of the list of high-need fields:

• Special education
• Bilingual education/English language acquisition
• Foreign language
• Mathematics
• Reading specialist

Through the Teacher Forgiveness Program , special education teachers recognized as highly qualified and teaching at either the elementary or secondary level can receive up to $17,500 in loan repayment for their Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans if they teach full-time for five consecutive school years in a low-income school or educational service agency.

Many state education agencies also offer statewide financial incentives. For example, the Minnesota Teacher Shortage Loan Repayment Program provides loan repayment assistance of up to $1,000 annually ($5,000 total) for special education teachers serving in districts located in defined teacher shortage areas.

At the local level, it’s common for school districts to offer specific financial incentives to attract teachers and encourage them to take jobs in teacher shortage areas. For example, the Austin Independent School District offers two financial incentives for special education teachers: (1) a $2,000/year special education stipend for special education classroom teachers and eligible support staff; and (2) a $1,500 bonus for newly hired special education classroom teachers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), special education teachers earned an average, annual salary of $61,030, as of May 2019. The top 10%—likely those with extensive experience and/or a graduate degree—earned an average of $98,530 that year.

As of May 2019, there were 443,700 special education teachers in the U.S. By 2029, the number of working in  preschools around the country will grow by 14,300.

As expected, average salaries for special education teachers don’t vary a whole lot according to grade level:

• Preschool special education teachers: $60,000
• Kindergarten/elementary special education teachers: $60,460
• Middle school special education teachers: $61,440
• High school special education teachers: $61,710

The average salary for special education teachers is also similar to that of general education teachers at the elementary ($59,670), middle ($59,660), and high school levels ($61,660).

The top-paying states for special education teachers, according to grade level, include:

• New York: $89,930
• Oregon: $77,320
• Rhode Island: $72,750
• Connecticut: $70,400
• Montana: $68,960

Kindergarten and Elementary School

• California: $80,370
• Washington D.C.: $78,830
• New York: $77,840
• Oregon: $76,880
• Connecticut: $76,780

Middle School

• New York: $87,440
• Connecticut: $80,370
• Washington D.C.: $80,080
• Maryland: $78,190
• Alaska: $77,740

High School

• New York: $83,890
• California: $83,000
• Maryland: $80,800
• Oregon: $79,460
• Washington D.C.: $79,010

Increasing numbers of students in America now qualify for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) through the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA)—that’s an increase of about half a million students since 2007-08. During the 2018-19 school year, 7.1 million students, or about 14 percent of the entire public school population, received services through IDEA. And in some parts of the country, the percentage of special education students is much higher. For example, in New York, more than 19 percent of all students receive special education services under IDEA.

And schools throughout the U.S. simply can’t keep up with demand.

While the lack of special education teachers is a serious and prevalent problem, for those looking to enter or advance in the field, it equates to exceptional professional opportunities and, in many cases, higher salaries, courtesy of federal, state, and local financial incentives designed to get them in the door and keep them there.

As of the 2020-21 school year, 45 states and Washington D.C. reported shortages of special education teachers, with most states reporting shortages in all or most all disability categories. Some states like Alabama and Rhode Island, are just dealing with a shortfall of qualified teachers in early childhood special education classrooms, while states like Washington and Oklahoma are experiencing shortages at all levels and in all exceptionalities.

The 45 states contending with these shortages are:

• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

You can learn more about your state’s special education needs by using the U.S. Department of Education’s searchable database of teacher shortage areas .

The following BLS stats highlight what special educator teachers (at the kindergarten/elementary school level) were earning at the 50 th – 90 th percentile as of May 2019:

• Alabama: $52,550 – $63,510
• Alaska: $72,860 – $100,670
• Arizona: $45,720 – $62,880
• Arkansas: $49,050 – $63,580
• California: $77,470 – $118,210
• Colorado: $52,610 – $79,180
• Connecticut: $77,990 – $102,690
• Delaware: $57,990 – $80,570
• District of Columbia: $76,660 – $118,620
• Florida: $64,040 – $86,430
• Georgia: $59,920 – $85,680
• Hawaii: $57,580 – $76,900
• Idaho: $46,880 – $75,490
• Illinois: $61,590 – $98,230
• Indiana: $49,550 – $79,490
• Iowa: $55,320 – $81,750
• Kansas: $52,760 – $73,190
• Kentucky: $52,780 – $65,290
• Louisiana: $49,350 – $61,700
• Maine: $51,210 – $73,660
• Maryland: $69,620 – $108,470
• Massachusetts: $72,550 – $110,890
• Michigan: $63,330 – $98,220
• Minnesota: $58,730 – $85,140
• Mississippi: $46,770 – $64,810
• Missouri: $54,260 – $96,630
• Montana: $49,270 – $73,540
• Nebraska: $58,490 – $81,140
• Nevada: $52,970 – $74,570
• New Hampshire: $59,350 – $80,210
• New Jersey: $67,060 – $99,170
• New Mexico: $51,390 – $77,900
• New York: $78,810 – $120,610
• North Carolina: $49,390 – $66,290
• North Dakota: $57,820 – $85,040
• Ohio: $56,670 – $82,100
• Oklahoma: $47,030 – $74,330
• Oregon: $76,330 – $118,160
• Pennsylvania: $64,210 – $94,340
• Rhode Island: $77,930 – $98,890
• South Carolina: $58,470 – $87,670
• South Dakota: $44,300 – $59,480
• Tennessee $52,630 – $72,120
• Texas: $57,390 – $72,710
• Utah: $43,620 – $81,870
• Vermont: $60,690 – $86,110
• Virginia: $64,040 – $102,140
• Washington: $68,150 – $93,220
• West Virginia: $42,820 – $58,480
• Wisconsin: $54,700 – $81,070
• Wyoming: $60,470 – $77,870

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which preschool special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which kindergarten and elementary special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

All salary and employment data accessed October 2020.

Become a Special Education Teacher

Teacher Salary in Saint Petersburg, Florida

How much does a Teacher make in Saint Petersburg, FL? The average Teacher salary in Saint Petersburg, FL is $56,343 as of August 27, 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $47,100 and $68,715 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

Search Teacher Jobs in Saint Petersburg, FL

How to Become a Teacher

• Paid Annually
• Paid Monthly
• Paid Semimonthly
• Paid Biweekly
• Paid Weekly
• Paid Hourly

• View Average Salary for United States
• Adjust Teacher Salary:
• Select State
• Select City in FL
• Choose Similar Job
• Pick Related Category
• View Cost of Living in Saint Petersburg, Florida

Individualize employee pay based on unique job requirements and personal qualifications.

Get the latest market price for benchmark jobs and jobs in your industry.

Analyze the market and your qualifications to negotiate your salary with confidence.

Search thousands of open positions to find your next opportunity.

Review the job openings and experience requirements for the Teacher job to confirm that it is the job you are seeking.

See user submitted job responsibilities for Teacher.

Search Teacher Job Openings

What does a teacher do.

View Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles, 18 Industries, and 26 Job Families.

Our job description management tool- JobArchitect streamlines your job description process. Say goodbye to the hassle of crafting job descriptions.

Not the job you're looking for? Search more salaries here:

Are you an hr manager or compensation specialist.

Salary.com's CompAnalyst platform offers:

• Detailed skills and competency reports for specific positions
• Job and employee pricing reports
• Compensation data tools, salary structures, surveys and benchmarks.

About Saint Petersburg, Florida

Understand the total compensation opportunity for a teacher, base salary plus other pay elements, average base salary.

Core compensation

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

Discover how your pay is adjusted for skills, experience, and other factors

How much should you be paid.

For a real-time salary target, tell us more about your role in the four categories below.

Your estimated salary based on up-to-date market data and the factors you selected below

About Saint Petersburg, Florida     St. Petersburg is a city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. As of the 2015 census estimate, the population was 257,083, making it the fifth-m.... More

Saint Petersburg, Florida   area prices were up 1.1% from a year ago

Teacher Salary in popular cities: Jacksonville ,  Miami ,  Tampa

Recently searched related titles: Classroom Coordinator , Reading Instructor , Strategic Research Analyst

Learn more about: Compensation Packages , Employee Flight Risk , Gender Pay Gap , Job Openings for This Role

Jobs with a similar salary range to Teacher : Adapted Physical Education Teacher , Government Teacher , Grade Teacher

For security reasons, we do not recommend using the “Keep me logged in” option on public devices.

This posting is locked only for district employees, in order to apply, you need to provide a password and click "Submit".

Are you sure?

For security reasons, we do not recommend using the “Keep me logged in” option on public devices. Click Continue to move forward with stay logged in.

Reset your password

Is this your email @ ?

Enter email address to retrieve your username and/or reset your password.

Verify Your Email Address

Email verification link sent.

An Email Verification link was sent to the email address . The verification link will expire in 48 hours. Please click on the link in the email you received to continue and complete the verification process.

If you do not see the email in your inbox after approximately 10-15 minutes, check your SPAM/Junk email folder(s) , thank you.

Special Education Teacher - Mild/Moderate - Chemawa Middle School (Temporary) at Riverside Unified School District (RUSD)

Application Deadline

9/16/2024 4:30 PM Pacific

Date Posted

Number of openings, length of work year, employment type, about the employer.

With schools dating back to the 1870s, the award-winning Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) is now the 16th largest school district in California. RUSD educates nearly 42,000 students across 50 schools in Riverside. The District serves a large portion of Riverside as well as the unincorporated areas of Highgrove and Woodcrest. RUSD is led by its 12th Superintendent, Ms. Renee Hill and is governed by a Board of Education comprised of publicly elected officials who serve five different trustee areas.

Requirements / Qualifications

Valid California Education Specialist Instruction – Mild/Moderate credential with English Learner Certification. 1. Online Edjoin Certificated Application 2. Letter of Interest, résumé, and three (3) current letters of recommendation 3. Copy of CBEST, CSET Scores 4. Copy of all current credentials held, or evidence of qualifying 5. Copy of transcripts with degree(s) posted Placement on the January 1, 2023 Teacher Salary Schedule: One year of step credit for each year of previous experience equivalent to public school experience, not to exceed 14 years. $72,213-$129,574 (Reflects a 100% Contract) plus health, dental, vision, life insurance and Employee Assistance Program

Comments and Other Information

Links related to this job.

• NonDiscrimination/Uniform Complaint Policies and Procedures
• Best of Riverside
• View Other Job Desc. / Ess. Elem.

CalSTRS Links

• CalSTRS Info for New Educators

Riverside Unified School District (RUSD)

Session Expiring Warning

For your safety and protection, your session is about to expire. If you wish to continue your session, please click OK .