Special Education Teacher Salary in Arkansas
The median special education teacher salary in Arkansas is $52,886 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $62,960.
Special Education Teacher Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for special education teacher compensation. Special Education Teacher salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $52,886 per year, special education teachers in Arkansas earn $10,074 less than the national median of $62,960.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $52,886 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $62,960 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: special education teachers at the 10th percentile earn $35,280, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $80,640 — a $45,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $55,405.
Nationally, special education teacher employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for special education teachers across the country.
Special Education Teacher Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level special education teacher earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,600 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $52,886? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,000 |
| Median (50th) | $52,886 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,520 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,640 |
Special Education Teacher Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for special education teachers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Arkansas
Education
Most special education teacher positions require a bachelor's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, special education teacher employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 476,300 other Special Education Teachers.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Special Education Teacher Roles in Arkansas?
Get matched with recruiters hiring special education teachers in Arkansas at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: