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Education · Colorado

How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Colorado

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Colorado earn a median salary of $74,290/year, which is 14% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school takes home approximately $2,852/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$74K
Median salary in Colorado
+14%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
4,010
Employed in Colorado

What a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school can afford in Colorado

Gross annual salary$74,290
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$4,782/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$1,930/mo
Rent as % of take-home40.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$74,290/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,852/mo

Becoming a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 4,010 special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. The highest concentrations are in Boulder and Denver-Aurora-Centennial.

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary by metro area in Colorado

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boulder$81K$/hr280
Denver-Aurora-Centennial$79K$/hr2,110
Grand Junction$65K$/hr90
Greeley$63K$/hr140
Pueblo$63K$/hr120
Fort Collins-Loveland$61K$/hr170
Colorado Springs$61K$/hr560

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$51K
25th percentile
$61K
Median (50th)
$74K
75th percentile
$82K
90th percentile (senior)
$98K
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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 Colorado?

The median special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary in Colorado is $74,290 per year ($null/hr). This is 14% above the national median of $65,120. Salaries range from $50,700 to $98,480.

What are the requirements to become a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Colorado?

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school afford to live in Colorado?

At the median salary of $74,290, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Colorado would take home approximately $4,782/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,930/month, that's 40.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in Colorado?

The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in Colorado are Boulder ($80,920), Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($79,310), Grand Junction ($64,540). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Colorado have state income tax for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools?

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $74,290 salary, this means roughly $3,269/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.