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Special Education Teacher salary
Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities.
Median annual
$65,000
Median hourly
$31
Top 10% earn
$100,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$48,000
Median$65,000
Top 10%$100,000
Special Education Teacher salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $54,100 | $26 | -17% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $60,200 | $29 | -7% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $69,200 | $33 | +6% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $84,600 | $41 | +30% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified special education teachers, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
Bachelor's degree plus special education certification.
Job outlook
3% growth through 2033 — persistent shortages.
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