Creative & Education Georgia (GA) Rank #27 of 50

Special Education Teacher Salary in Georgia

The median special education teacher salary in Georgia is $58,553 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $62,960.

Median Salary
$58,553
vs National
$-4,407
State Rank
#27 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Special Education Teacher Salary Overview in Georgia (2026)

Georgia ranks #27 out of 50 states for special education teacher compensation. Special Education Teacher salaries in Georgia are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $58,553 per year, special education teachers in Georgia earn $4,407 less than the national median of $62,960.

A key advantage of working in Georgia is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $58,553 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $62,960 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Georgia is significant: special education teachers at the 10th percentile earn $39,060, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,280 — a $50,220 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Georgia for this role is Atlanta, where the median reaches $64,219.

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 Georgia by Experience

In Georgia, an entry-level special education teacher earns around $40,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,700 per year. The cost of living index in Georgia is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$40,920
$-3,080 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,520
$-4,480 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$83,700
$-6,300 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Georgia

Percentile GA Salary
10th Percentile $39,060
25th Percentile $46,500
Median (50th) $58,553
75th Percentile $72,540
90th Percentile $89,280

Special Education Teacher Salary by City in Georgia

The largest employment areas for special education teachers in Georgia include Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, and Columbus. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Georgia

Education

Most special education teacher positions require a bachelor's degree. Georgia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

IEP DevelopmentAdaptive TeachingAssessmentBehavioral ManagementCommunicationPatience

Job Outlook in Georgia

Nationally, special education teacher employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Georgia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Special Education Teacher Salary in Georgia

How much does a Special Education Teacher make in Georgia? ▼
The median special education teacher salary in Georgia is $58,553 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $62,960. Salaries range from $39,060 (10th percentile) to $89,280 (90th percentile).
How much does a Special Education Teacher make per hour in Georgia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,553, a special education teacher in Georgia earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Georgia a good state for special education teachers? ▼
Georgia ranks #27 out of 50 states for special education teacher pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level special education teachers earn $40,920, while senior professionals earn $83,700.
How does Georgia compare to other states for special education teacher salary? ▼
The highest paying state for special education teachers is Hawaii at $107,032. Georgia's median of $58,553 ranks #27 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Montana ($59,812) and Idaho ($59,182).
What is the entry-level special education teacher salary in Georgia? ▼
An entry-level special education teacher in Georgia earns approximately $40,920 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $59,520. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $83,700.
What city in Georgia pays special education teachers the most? ▼
Atlanta is the highest paying city in Georgia for special education teachers, with a median salary of $64,219. Other cities include Augusta and Savannah.