Special Education Teachers, Preschool in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $55,890 | $62,190 | -10.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #28 of 40 states | ||
| Employment | 3,440 jobs | 28,200 jobs | 12.2% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,630 | — |
| 25th Percentile | $46,580 | — |
| Median | $55,890 | — |
| 75th Percentile | $65,180 | — |
| 90th Percentile | $93,720 | — |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Special Education Teachers, Preschool in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $55,890 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of -18.6%, special education teachers, preschool remain an established career option.
How can special education teachers, preschool increase their salary in California?
Special Education Teachers, Preschool in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #28 out of 40 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Special Education Teachers, Preschool in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Offices of Other Health Practitioners | $131,210 |
| Offices of Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapists, and Audiologists | $131,210 |
| Ambulatory Health Care Services | $129,910 |
How are Special Education Teachers, Preschool paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Special Education Teachers, Preschool in California is $55,890, which is 10.1% below the national median of $62,190.