How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Washington
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools in Washington earn a median salary of $85,340/year, which is 35% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school takes home approximately $4,290/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school can afford in Washington
Becoming a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Washington
Meet education requirements
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 3,290 special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $98K | $/hr | 1,640 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $86K | $/hr | 60 |
| Bellingham | $85K | $/hr | 100 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $81K | $/hr | 180 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $81K | $/hr | 130 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $80K | $/hr | 130 |
| Yakima | $79K | $/hr | 140 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $78K | $/hr | 220 |
| Longview-Kelso | $78K | $/hr | 60 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $74K | $/hr | 50 |
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School salary range in Washington
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 Washington?▼
The median special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school salary in Washington is $85,340 per year ($null/hr). This is 35% above the national median of $63,000. Salaries range from $63,890 to $122,340.
What are the requirements to become a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Washington?▼
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $85,340, a special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school in Washington would take home approximately $5,702/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.8% 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 Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($97,970), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($85,810), Bellingham ($84,900). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary schools?▼
No, Washington 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.