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Education · New York

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

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in New York earn a median salary of $80,750/year, which is 28% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school takes home approximately $3,701/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$81K
Median salary in New York
+28%
vs. national average
4.8%
State income tax
20,500
Employed in New York

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

Gross annual salary$80,750
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.8% state tax)$5,113/mo
Median 2BR rent (New York)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.6% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$80,750/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,701/mo

Becoming a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in New York

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain New York licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New York

New York employs 20,500 special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. The highest concentrations are in Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh and New York-Newark-Jersey City.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh$83K$/hr790
New York-Newark-Jersey City$83K$/hr20,410
Kingston$82K$/hr180
Buffalo-Cheektowaga$70K$/hr1,320
Syracuse$70K$/hr580
Albany-Schenectady-Troy$68K$/hr750
Utica-Rome$65K$/hr260
Binghamton$64K$/hr310
Ithaca$63K$/hr70
Rochester$63K$/hr1,340
Glens Falls$61K$/hr130
Elmira$61K$/hr70
Watertown-Fort Drum$60K$/hr70

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary range in New York

10th percentile (entry)
$57K
25th percentile
$64K
Median (50th)
$81K
75th percentile
$109K
90th percentile (senior)
$132K
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Full special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary breakdown in New York
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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 New York?

The median special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary in New York is $80,750 per year ($null/hr). This is 28% above the national median of $63,000. Salaries range from $57,380 to $132,100.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $80,750, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in New York would take home approximately $5,113/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.6% 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 New York?

The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in New York are Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh ($82,850), New York-Newark-Jersey City ($82,510), Kingston ($82,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $80,750 salary, this means roughly $3,836/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.