Special Education Teacher Salary in Rhode Island
The median special education teacher salary in Rhode Island is $66,108 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $62,960.
Special Education Teacher Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for special education teacher compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for special education teacher pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $66,108 per year, special education teachers in Rhode Island earn $3,148 more than the national median of $62,960.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning special education teacher salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: special education teachers at the 10th percentile earn $44,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $100,800 — a $56,700 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $67,997.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level special education teacher earns around $46,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,500 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,500 |
| Median (50th) | $66,108 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $100,800 |
Special Education Teacher Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for special education teachers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Rhode Island
Education
Most special education teacher positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, special education teacher employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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