Special Education Teacher Salary in Tacoma, WA
How much does a special education teacher make in Tacoma? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Tacoma's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how special education teacher salaries break down across different pay periods in Tacoma.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $45,391 | $67,100 | $91,769 |
| Monthly | $3,783 | $5,592 | $7,647 |
| Biweekly | $1,746 | $2,581 | $3,530 |
| Weekly | $873 | $1,290 | $1,765 |
| Hourly | $22 | $32 | $44 |
Tacoma vs National Average
How Tacoma's special education teacher salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Tacoma
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 Tacoma, WA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a special education teacher in Tacoma, WA is $67,100 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 131. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Tacoma's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level special education teacher professionals in Tacoma can expect to earn around $45,391 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level special education teachers earning approximately $91,769 per year. This represents a 102% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Tacoma's cost of living index of 131 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Tacoma 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 Tacoma typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,900 per month, housing represents about 34.0% 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 Tacoma, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.