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How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Preschool in California

Special Education Teachers, Preschools in California earn a median salary of $59,550/year, which is 8% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, preschool takes home approximately $2,803/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$60K
Median salary in California
-8%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
2,510
Employed in California

What a special education teachers, preschool can afford in California

Gross annual salary$59,550
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$4,002/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,199/mo
Rent as % of take-home30% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$59,550/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,803/mo

Becoming a special education teachers, preschool in California

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in California

California employs 2,510 special education teachers, preschools. The highest concentrations are in San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad and Fresno.

Special Education Teachers, Preschool salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$117K$/hr240
Fresno$94K$/hr120
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$82K$/hr,
Vallejo$75K$/hr50
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$72K$/hr,
Bakersfield-Delano$62K$/hr,

Special Education Teachers, Preschool salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$38K
25th percentile
$48K
Median (50th)
$60K
75th percentile
$83K
90th percentile (senior)
$118K
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Full special education teachers, preschool salary breakdown in California
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Special Education Teachers, Preschool careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a special education teachers, preschool make in California?

The median special education teachers, preschool salary in California is $59,550 per year ($null/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $64,830. Salaries range from $38,050 to $117,700.

What are the requirements to become a special education teachers, preschool in California?

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

Can a special education teachers, preschool afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $59,550, a special education teachers, preschool in California would take home approximately $4,002/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,199/month, that's 30% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for special education teachers, preschools in California?

The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, preschools in California are San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($117,200), Fresno ($93,800), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($82,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for special education teachers, preschools?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $59,550 salary, this means roughly $1,864/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.