How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in California
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in California earn a median salary of $90,530/year, which is 44% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school takes home approximately $4,214/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school can afford in California
Becoming a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in California
Meet education requirements
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 17,920 special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. The highest concentrations are in Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura and Visalia.
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $113K | $/hr | 480 |
| Visalia | $103K | $/hr | 120 |
| El Centro | $101K | $/hr | 160 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $99K | $/hr | 210 |
| Fresno | $99K | $/hr | 440 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $98K | $/hr | 560 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $97K | $/hr | 1,470 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $97K | $/hr | 240 |
| Vallejo | $96K | $/hr | 170 |
| Merced | $95K | $/hr | 100 |
| Yuba City | $93K | $/hr | 100 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $92K | $/hr | 6,420 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $92K | $/hr | 100 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $89K | $/hr | 2,300 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $88K | $/hr | 110 |
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary range in California
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school make in California?▼
The median special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary in California is $90,530 per year ($null/hr). This is 44% above the national median of $63,000. Salaries range from $57,780 to $123,900.
What are the requirements to become a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in California?▼
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $90,530, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in California would take home approximately $5,626/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in California are Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($112,850), Visalia ($102,630), El Centro ($100,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $90,530 salary, this means roughly $4,557/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.