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Education · North Carolina

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

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in North Carolina earn a median salary of $56,330/year, which is 11% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school takes home approximately $2,318/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$56K
Median salary in North Carolina
-11%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
4,640
Employed in North Carolina

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

Gross annual salary$56,330
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$3,730/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home37.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$56,330/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,318/mo

Becoming a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 4,640 special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. The highest concentrations are in Raleigh-Cary and Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Raleigh-Cary$60K$/hr930
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$60K$/hr1,190
Durham-Chapel Hill$60K$/hr400
Greensboro-High Point$58K$/hr360
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$57K$/hr110
Burlington$57K$/hr80
Greenville$57K$/hr90
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$53K$/hr60
Asheville$50K$/hr120
Winston-Salem$50K$/hr220
Fayetteville$48K$/hr190
Jacksonville$48K$/hr100
Rocky Mount$47K$/hr50
Wilmington$47K$/hr250

Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$41K
25th percentile
$47K
Median (50th)
$56K
75th percentile
$62K
90th percentile (senior)
$72K
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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 North Carolina?

The median special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary in North Carolina is $56,330 per year ($null/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $63,000. Salaries range from $41,140 to $72,120.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $56,330, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,730/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.9% 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 North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in North Carolina are Raleigh-Cary ($60,010), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($59,770), Durham-Chapel Hill ($59,690). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $56,330 salary, this means roughly $2,535/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.