Special Education Teacher Salary in Lakewood, WA
How much does a special education teacher make in Lakewood? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Lakewood's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how special education teacher salaries break down across different pay periods in Lakewood.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $56,430 | $83,418 | $114,087 |
| Monthly | $4,703 | $6,952 | $9,507 |
| Biweekly | $2,170 | $3,208 | $4,388 |
| Weekly | $1,085 | $1,604 | $2,194 |
| Hourly | $27 | $40 | $55 |
Lakewood vs National Average
How Lakewood's special education teacher salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Lakewood
About Special Education Teacher
Overview
Teach students with disabilities and develop individualized education plans.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Special Education; Certification required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +13% over the next decade
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Special Education Teacher Salary in Lakewood, WA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a special education teacher in Lakewood, WA is $83,418 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 102. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Lakewood's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level special education teacher professionals in Lakewood can expect to earn around $56,430 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level special education teachers earning approximately $114,087 per year. This represents a 102% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Lakewood's cost of living index of 102 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Lakewood are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $73,020, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a special education teacher's salary in Lakewood typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,200 per month, housing represents about 17.3% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Special Education Teachers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 13% over the next decade. In Lakewood, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.