Creative & Education Mississippi (MS) Rank #50 of 50

Special Education Teacher Salary in Mississippi

The median special education teacher salary in Mississippi is $52,257 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $62,960.

Median Salary
$52,257
vs National
$-10,703
State Rank
#50 of 50
Cost of Living
83%

Special Education Teacher Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)

Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for special education teacher compensation. Special Education Teacher salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $52,257 per year, special education teachers in Mississippi earn $10,703 less than the national median of $62,960.

A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $52,257 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $62,960 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: special education teachers at the 10th percentile earn $34,860, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $79,680 — a $44,820 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Mississippi for this role is Jackson, where the median reaches $53,516.

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 Mississippi by Experience

In Mississippi, an entry-level special education teacher earns around $36,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,700 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,520
$-7,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$53,120
$-10,880 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$74,700
$-15,300 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Mississippi

Percentile MS Salary
10th Percentile $34,860
25th Percentile $41,500
Median (50th) $52,257
75th Percentile $64,740
90th Percentile $79,680

Special Education Teacher Salary by City in Mississippi

The largest employment areas for special education teachers in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Mississippi

Education

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

Key Skills

IEP DevelopmentAdaptive TeachingAssessmentBehavioral ManagementCommunicationPatience

Job Outlook in Mississippi

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Special Education Teacher Salary in Mississippi

How much does a Special Education Teacher make in Mississippi? ▼
The median special education teacher salary in Mississippi is $52,257 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $62,960. Salaries range from $34,860 (10th percentile) to $79,680 (90th percentile).
How much does a Special Education Teacher make per hour in Mississippi? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $52,257, a special education teacher in Mississippi earns approximately $25 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Mississippi a good state for special education teachers? ▼
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for special education teacher pay. The cost of living index is 83% of the national average. Entry-level special education teachers earn $36,520, while senior professionals earn $74,700.
How does Mississippi compare to other states for special education teacher salary? ▼
The highest paying state for special education teachers is Hawaii at $107,032. Mississippi's median of $52,257 ranks #50 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Arkansas ($52,886) and West Virginia ($52,886).
What is the entry-level special education teacher salary in Mississippi? ▼
An entry-level special education teacher in Mississippi earns approximately $36,520 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $53,120. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $74,700.
What city in Mississippi pays special education teachers the most? ▼
Jackson is the highest paying city in Mississippi for special education teachers, with a median salary of $53,516. Other cities include Gulfport and Southaven.