Special Education Teachers, Preschool Salary Guide 2025: Pay, Requirements, and Job Outlook
Special Education Teachers, Preschool earn a median salary of $64,830 per year, according to the latest BLS data. The mean wage is $76,380, or about $31 per hour, with the top 10% earning over $130,040. But pay varies widely by state and experience—entry-level salaries start around $45,620. If you're considering this career, here's what you need to know about compensation, requirements, and future demand.
How much Special Education Teachers, Preschool earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $64,830, with a mean of $76,380. That translates to roughly $31 per hour. The typical range spans from $45,620 at the 10th percentile to $130,040 at the 90th percentile. These figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey.
Factors like your state, school district, and years of experience affect earnings. Preschool special ed teachers in public schools may also receive benefits like health insurance and pension plans, which add to total compensation.
Pay by state
State-by-state pay can differ by tens of thousands of dollars. The highest-paying state is Massachusetts, with an average salary of $99,070, followed by New Jersey ($92,060), Connecticut ($87,960), Washington ($86,580), and Maryland ($85,010). On the low end, Arkansas averages $35,580, Indiana $48,680, and Idaho $49,610. If you're willing to relocate, targeting a high-paying state can significantly boost your earnings.
How to become Special Education Teachers, Preschool
To become a preschool special education teacher, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field. Many states also require a teaching license or certification in special education. Some states offer alternative certification pathways for career changers.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in special education, early childhood education, or a related field.
- Complete a teacher preparation program that includes student teaching in a special education setting.
- Pass state-required exams (e.g., Praxis) in special education and early childhood.
- Apply for state teaching certification or licensure in special education (preschool endorsement often required).
- Consider a master's degree for higher pay or to meet some state requirements.
Job outlook
Employment for Special Education Teachers, Preschool is projected to grow 1.4% from 2024 to 2034, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, about 2,100 openings are expected each year, largely due to workers retiring or transferring. Demand will persist because of the legal requirement to provide special education services to children with disabilities from an early age.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a preschool special education teacher?
Entry-level salaries are around the 10th percentile of $45,620, but this varies by state and district. Some high-paying districts may start higher.
Do preschool special ed teachers need a master's degree?
Not always—a bachelor's degree is the minimum. However, some states require a master's within a certain timeframe, and a master's can lead to higher pay.
Is this career in demand?
Growth is slow at 1.4%, but about 2,100 openings per year provide steady opportunities, especially in states with high turnover or growing preschool populations.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Special Education Teachers, Preschool data.