Creative & Education Texas (TX) Rank #30 of 50

Special Education Teacher Salary in Texas

The median special education teacher salary in Texas is $57,923 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $62,960.

Median Salary
$57,923
vs National
$-5,037
State Rank
#30 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Special Education Teacher Salary Overview in Texas (2026)

Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for special education teacher compensation. Special Education Teacher salaries in Texas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $57,923 per year, special education teachers in Texas earn $5,037 less than the national median of $62,960.

A key advantage of working in Texas is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $57,923 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $62,960 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Texas is significant: special education teachers at the 10th percentile earn $38,640, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $88,320 — a $49,680 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Texas for this role is Austin, where the median reaches $66,108.

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 Texas by Experience

In Texas, an entry-level special education teacher earns around $40,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,800 per year. The cost of living index in Texas is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$40,480
$-3,520 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,880
$-5,120 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$82,800
$-7,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Texas

Percentile TX Salary
10th Percentile $38,640
25th Percentile $46,000
Median (50th) $57,923
75th Percentile $71,760
90th Percentile $88,320

Special Education Teacher Salary by City in Texas

The largest employment areas for special education teachers in Texas include Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Texas

Education

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

Key Skills

IEP DevelopmentAdaptive TeachingAssessmentBehavioral ManagementCommunicationPatience

Job Outlook in Texas

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Special Education Teacher Salary in Texas

How much does a Special Education Teacher make in Texas? ▼
The median special education teacher salary in Texas is $57,923 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $62,960. Salaries range from $38,640 (10th percentile) to $88,320 (90th percentile).
How much does a Special Education Teacher make per hour in Texas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $57,923, a special education teacher in Texas earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Texas a good state for special education teachers? ▼
Texas ranks #30 out of 50 states for special education teacher pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level special education teachers earn $40,480, while senior professionals earn $82,800.
How does Texas compare to other states for special education teacher salary? ▼
The highest paying state for special education teachers is Hawaii at $107,032. Texas's median of $57,923 ranks #30 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Mexico ($58,553) and North Carolina ($57,923).
What is the entry-level special education teacher salary in Texas? ▼
An entry-level special education teacher in Texas earns approximately $40,480 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $58,880. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $82,800.
What city in Texas pays special education teachers the most? ▼
Austin is the highest paying city in Texas for special education teachers, with a median salary of $66,108. Other cities include Houston and Dallas.