How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Tennessee
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Tennessee earn a median salary of $61,080/year, which is 3% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school takes home approximately $2,848/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 4,100 special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Chattanooga.
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $63K | $/hr | 1,000 |
| Chattanooga | $62K | $/hr | 560 |
| Memphis | $62K | $/hr | 1,320 |
| Knoxville | $61K | $/hr | 400 |
| Johnson City | $51K | $/hr | 80 |
| Clarksville | $51K | $/hr | 170 |
| Jackson | $50K | $/hr | 90 |
| Cleveland | $49K | $/hr | 60 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $48K | $/hr | 160 |
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary range in Tennessee
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 Tennessee?▼
The median special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary in Tennessee is $61,080 per year ($null/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $63,000. Salaries range from $48,020 to $76,160.
What are the requirements to become a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Tennessee?▼
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $61,080, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,260/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.1% 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 Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($62,540), Chattanooga ($62,440), Memphis ($62,030). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.