Special Education Teacher Salary in Pennsylvania
The median special education teacher salary in Pennsylvania is $60,442 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $62,960.
Special Education Teacher Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for special education teacher compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for special education teacher pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $60,442 per year, special education teachers in Pennsylvania earn $2,518 less than the national median of $62,960.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning special education teacher salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: special education teachers at the 10th percentile earn $40,320, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $92,160 — a $51,840 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, 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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level special education teacher earns around $42,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,400 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,000 |
| Median (50th) | $60,442 |
| 75th Percentile | $74,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,160 |
Special Education Teacher Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for special education teachers in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Pennsylvania
Education
Most special education teacher positions require a bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, special education teacher employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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