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Education · Iowa

How to Become a Special Education Teachers, Secondary School in Iowa

Special Education Teachers, Secondary Schools in Iowa earn a median salary of $58,780/year, which is 16% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a special education teachers, secondary school takes home approximately $2,450/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$59K
Median salary in Iowa
-16%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
2,100
Employed in Iowa

What a special education teachers, secondary school can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$58,780
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,862/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home36.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,780/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,450/mo

Becoming a special education teachers, secondary school in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 2,100 special education teachers, secondary schools. The highest concentrations are in Davenport-Moline-Rock Island and Cedar Rapids.

Special Education Teachers, Secondary School salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$61K$/hr200
Cedar Rapids$60K$/hr260
Iowa City$60K$/hr100
Sioux City$59K$/hr60
Ames$59K$/hr60
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$59K$/hr110
Dubuque$59K$/hr80
Des Moines-West Des Moines$58K$/hr640

Special Education Teachers, Secondary School salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$45K
25th percentile
$49K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$68K
90th percentile (senior)
$75K
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Special Education Teachers, Secondary School careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a special education teachers, secondary school make in Iowa?

The median special education teachers, secondary school salary in Iowa is $58,780 per year ($null/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $69,590. Salaries range from $45,140 to $75,220.

What are the requirements to become a special education teachers, secondary school in Iowa?

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

Can a special education teachers, secondary school afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $58,780, a special education teachers, secondary school in Iowa would take home approximately $3,862/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for special education teachers, secondary schools in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for special education teachers, secondary schools in Iowa are Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($61,300), Cedar Rapids ($60,200), Iowa City ($59,770). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for special education teachers, secondary schools?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $58,780 salary, this means roughly $2,925/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.