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Education · Illinois

How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Preschool in Illinois

Special Education Teachers, Preschools in Illinois earn a median salary of $60,420/year, which is 3% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, preschool takes home approximately $2,554/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$60K
Median salary in Illinois
-3%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
1,030
Employed in Illinois

What a special education teachers, preschool can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$60,420
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,966/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$60,420/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,554/mo

Becoming a special education teachers, preschool in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 1,030 special education teachers, preschools. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Special Education Teachers, Preschool salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$58K$/hr840

Special Education Teachers, Preschool salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$41K
25th percentile
$48K
Median (50th)
$60K
75th percentile
$77K
90th percentile (senior)
$99K
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Full special education teachers, preschool salary breakdown in Illinois
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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 Illinois?

The median special education teachers, preschool salary in Illinois is $60,420 per year ($null/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $62,190. Salaries range from $40,610 to $99,200.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $60,420, a special education teachers, preschool in Illinois would take home approximately $3,966/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, preschools in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($58,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $60,420 salary, this means roughly $2,991/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.