By: All Education Schools Staff
Updated: February 6, 2026
Special education teacher salaries in California
California is a strong state for special education teachers at all levels, but there are also some challenges to consider. Three reasons California presents opportunity are:
- Demand and job security:
- California has a significant shortage of special education teachers, which means high job availability and greater job security. Schools are actively hiring, sometimes even offering incentives such as signing bonuses or tuition reimbursement for credentialing programs.
- Competitive salaries and benefits:
- Special education teachers in California tend to earn higher salaries than in many other states. The cost of living is high, but teacher salaries, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, are often adjusted accordingly. Additionally, benefits such as retirement plans and health coverage are strong.
- Support for programs:
- California has laws and programs aimed at supporting special education services, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and funding for specialized services. The state also promotes inclusive education, giving teachers opportunities to work in diverse learning environments.
Some challenges unique to the state are:
- High cost of living:
- While salaries are competitive, the cost of living in many parts of California (especially coastal cities) can be extremely high. This may make it difficult for teachers to afford housing or other essentials.
- Workload and paperwork:
- Special education teachers in California, like in many states, face heavy workloads, including extensive documentation and IEP meetings. The bureaucratic demands can be overwhelming, leading to burnout.
- Staffing shortages and large class sizes:
- While demand is high, many districts struggle with understaffing, which can lead to large caseloads and limited resources for students with disabilities. This can make the job more stressful and challenging and may lead to burnout.
Quick view of special education teachers in California
There are 19,870 people employed as kindergarten and elementary school special education teachers in California says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)—and another 7,240 teaching special ed at the middle school level. Over 11,000 teach at the secondary education level in California. The BLS said that California is the second highest employer of special ed teachers at the elementary and secondary levels in the U.S., with the state being the third highest employer of middle school special ed teacher in the U.S. The forecasted job growth for the coming decade at a national level is -1.8% though O*NET, a subsidiary of the BLS, said that California would see 9% job growth through 2030.
These employers offer diverse opportunities for special education teachers to work across all education levels in California:
- Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), Los Angeles:
- The second-largest school district in the U.S. and the largest in California employs thousands of special education teachers across elementary, middle and high schools. LAUSD offers competitive salaries, benefits and various support programs for special educators.
- San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD), San Diego:
- One of the largest school districts in California, serving over 100,000 students that provides extensive special education services, including inclusion programs and specialized classrooms.
- California Department of Education (CDE)–Special Schools Division, Sacramento:
- Operates specialized state-run schools like the California School for the Deaf (Fremont and Riverside) and California School for the Blind, and offers unique opportunities for special education teachers working with students who have significant disabilities.
- San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD), San Francisco:
- A leader in inclusive education and special education services, SFUSD provides structured support for special education teachers, including professional development and resources.
- Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD), Sacramento:
- As one of the largest districts in Northern California, SCUSD has a high demand for special education teachers, particularly in resource specialist programs (RSP) and moderate/severe classrooms.
Special education teacher salary stats for California
Your salary as a special education teacher in California depends upon several factors such as where you work and live and the cost of living in specific regions, the demand for teachers, type of employer (public schools or private institutions) and of course, your education, qualifications and experience. Going forward we’ll use BLS data for special ed teachers in kindergarten and elementary schools and secondary schools as our reference.
Median special education teacher salary in California
In California, kindergarten and elementary special ed teachers earned a median annual salary of $90,530, while secondary level special ed teachers earned $101,250. These are significant increases over the national median of $63,000 and $69,590 respectively, and makes California the third highest paying state in the U.S. after New York and Oregon for kindergarten and elementary special ed teachers, and first in the U.S. for secondary level special ed teachers, according to the BLS.
Median salaries for kindergarten and elementary level special ed teachers in California and its main metro areas are below:
10%$57,780
25%$72,870
50%$90,530Median
75%$104,860
90%$123,900
Median Hourly WageN/A
Job growth-1.8%
Total Employment17,920
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | $112,850 | $62,980 | $130,940 |
| Visalia, CA | $102,630 | $60,620 | $183,190 |
| El Centro, CA | $100,980 | $69,200 | $172,230 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $99,170 | $65,130 | $113,890 |
| Fresno, CA | $98,550 | $54,850 | $137,440 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $98,050 | $68,770 | $147,720 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA | $97,300 | $62,740 | $117,960 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | $96,940 | $58,480 | $111,560 |
| Vallejo, CA | $96,190 | $60,340 | $132,280 |
| Merced, CA | $95,060 | $56,800 | $112,880 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Median salaries for California special ed teachers at the secondary school level look like this:
10%$61,590
25%$76,850
50%$101,250Median
75%$122,740
90%$133,600
Median Hourly WageN/A
Job growth-1.6%
Total Employment12,190
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA | $108,790 | $62,000 | $203,900 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | $103,800 | $62,640 | $126,180 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | $103,150 | $63,640 | $133,500 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA | $102,250 | $63,430 | $153,460 |
| Modesto, CA | $102,240 | $65,420 | $122,740 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA | $100,640 | $61,430 | $129,410 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | $98,630 | $63,640 | $125,800 |
| Merced, CA | $97,970 | $58,240 | $123,790 |
| Fresno, CA | $97,300 | $59,390 | $129,910 |
| Vallejo, CA | $97,120 | $57,750 | $134,550 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Comparing salaries for different special ed teacher education levels
What level of students you teach may make a difference in your salary. The BLS reported salaries for California special education teachers at the following grade levels:
| Education level taught | Median annual salary from the BLS |
|---|---|
| Preschool | $55,890 |
| Kindergarten and elementary school | $90,530 |
| Middle school | $99,270 |
| Secondary school | $101,250 |
| All other special ed teachers | $87,600 |
Salary ranges for special education teachers in California
The salary range for kindergarten and elementary level special education teachers in California typically spans from $57,780 to $123,900 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to more experienced teacher or administrative roles and takes into consideration other factors such as education and geographic location of employment.
Pay by metro area for California special education teachers
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state and cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. As noted earlier, California ranks third as a state for highest pay for special ed teachers at the kindergarten and elementary school level, with the El Centro, CA metro area taking the number one spot in the country, and other metro areas in California dominating the top 10 areas for pay list from the BLS. Here’s what the BLS reported as the top 10 highest paying metro areas for kindergarten and elementary school special ed teachers in the U.S.:
Job growth and outlook for California special ed teachers
While the BLS projected little to no growth in special education teacher employment nationally through 2034, the situation in California is notably different. The state faces a significant shortage of special education teachers, leading to strong demand across all educational levels.
Factors contributing to California’s higher demand:
- Increasing student enrollment: The number of students requiring special education services in California has been rising said The Arc CA, leading to a higher demand for qualified teachers.
- High teacher attrition rates: California experiences a high annual teacher attrition rate, estimated at about 9%, which accounts for approximately 88% of the state’s annual demand for new teachers, said the Learning Policy Institute.
- Challenges in teacher retention: Factors such as large caseloads, extensive paperwork and limited resources contribute to high turnover rates among special education teachers in the state.
These challenges have led to an increase in the issuance of substandard credentials or permits to fill teaching positions.
The BLS reported the top metro areas for the employment of special ed teachers at the kindergarten and elementary school level in the U.S. as:
Factors affecting special education teacher salaries in California
Here are some factors specific to California that impact what special education teachers may be able to earn in the state:
- School district and location:
- Salaries vary widely by district; urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco tend to pay more due to higher living costs.
- Education attained and credentials:
- Teachers with advanced degrees such as a master’s or EdD, or additional certifications earn higher salaries. Special education credentials (Mild/Moderate or Moderate/Severe) can also impact pay.
- Years of experience:
- Most districts follow a salary schedule where pay increases with years of teaching experience.
- Type of school:
- Public school teachers who are district-employed generally earn more than those in private or charter schools. State-run special schools may also offer competitive pay.
- Union contracts:
- Salaries and benefits are influenced by collective bargaining agreements between teacher unions and school districts.
- Taking on additional responsibility:
- Teachers who take on extra roles such as department chair or mentor, or who have specialized skills such as bilingual special ed, may receive stipends or higher pay.
While foreign language skills are not required, they can be highly beneficial for special education teachers in California, particularly in diverse regions, and may contribute to higher salaries. Here’s why:
- Serving multilingual students–Many students in California speak Spanish, Mandarin, Tagalog or other languages at home. Being bilingual can help with communication and instruction.
- Parent and family communication–Many parents of special education students may have limited English proficiency. Speaking their language helps build trust and improve collaboration.
- Increased job opportunities and pay–Some districts offer stipends for bilingual teachers, and bilingual special educators are in high demand in areas with large immigrant populations.
Teachers unions and how they work for CA special ed teachers
Teachers’ unions in California, such as the California Teachers Association (CTA) and United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA), play a significant role in supporting special education teachers in the following ways:
1. Advocating for better working conditions
- Push for smaller class sizes and reduced caseloads for special education teachers.
- Work to limit excessive paperwork and administrative burdens, which are major stressors in special education.
2. Securing competitive salaries and benefits
- Negotiate higher salaries, stipends and bonuses for special education teachers, who often face greater demands than general education teachers.
- Ensure access to strong healthcare, retirement plans and paid leave benefits.
3. Protecting against unfair treatment and burnout
- Provide legal support and representation in case of disputes with administrators, parents or school districts.
- Push for mental health support and additional resources to help prevent teacher burnout.
4. Ensuring professional development and credentialing support
- Advocate for state-funded training programs and pathways to full credentials, especially since many special education teachers start with emergency permits.
- Offer workshops, networking and mentorship programs for professional growth.
5. Fighting for increased special education funding
- Lobby for higher state and federal funding for special education programs, ensuring better resources and staffing.
- Oppose budget cuts that could negatively impact special education services.
Education, certification and licensing
Education pathway for California special education teachers:
To become a special education teacher in California, you must complete the following education and credentialing pathway:
Earn a bachelor’s degree
- Must be from an accredited college or university.
- No specific major is required, but education, psychology or child development are common choices.
Complete a Commission-approved special education credential program
- This is a post-baccalaureate program that provides specialized training in special education.
- Programs can be completed through a university or an internship route (teaching while earning the credential).
Earn a Preliminary Education Specialist credential
- Choose a specialization:
- Mild/Moderate Support Needs (MMSN)–Covers learning disabilities, ADHD, mild autism, etc.
- Extensive Support Needs (ESN)–Covers more significant disabilities, such as severe autism or intellectual disabilities.
- Credential programs include coursework, student teaching and assessments.
Pass required exams (May vary depending on program requirements)
- CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) – Tests reading, writing, and math skills.
- CSET (California Subject Examinations for Teachers) – May be required to demonstrate subject matter competency.
- RICA (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment) – Required for those teaching students with reading disabilities.
Complete the induction program for the Clear credential
- Within five years, special education teachers must complete a state-approved induction program to transition from a Preliminary to a Clear Education Specialist Credential.
Alternative and fast-track options
- District-sponsored training programs–Some school districts offer their own pathways with tuition assistance.
- Intern credential programs–Teach while completing credential requirements.
Cost of living considerations for California
California’s cost of living is notably higher than the national average said RentCafe, with overall expenses approximately 38% above the U.S. mean. Housing costs are particularly elevated and is the largest expense in California. Many Californians rely on cars, and gas prices in the state are among the highest in the nation. Public transportation is available but limited in some areas and the state has one of the highest state income tax rates, which may impact take-home pay. In California, the three metropolitan areas with the highest concentrations of special education teachers, but with a higher cost of living, are:
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim Metro Area:
Employment: Approximately 3,410 special education teachers.
Concentration: 0.55 special education teachers per 1,000 jobs.
This region’s large and diverse population leads to a significant number of students requiring special education services, necessitating a substantial workforce of special education teachers.
San Diego-Carlsbad Metro Area:
Employment: Approximately 1,440 special education teachers.
Concentration: 0.95 special education teachers per 1,000 jobs.
The growing population in this area contributes to an increased demand for special education services, resulting in a higher concentration of special education teachers.
More affordable: Vallejo-Fairfield Metro Area:
Employment: Approximately 110 special education teachers.
Concentration: 0.83 special education teachers per 1,000 jobs.
Despite its smaller size, this area has a notable concentration of special education teachers, likely due to regional educational policies and the needs of the local student population.
Professional groups for California special education teachers
There are several advocacy groups and professional associations that support special education teachers in California. Here are some key organizations:
- California Teachers Association (CTA)–Special Education Caucus:
- Advocates for the rights and needs of special education teachers within the larger CTA and works on policy improvements, workload reduction and funding for special education.
- Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)–California Division (Cal-CEC):
- Provides professional development, networking and advocacy for special educators and supports research-based best practices in special education.
- California Association of Resource Specialists and Special Education Teachers (CARS+):
- Specifically supports Resource Specialists (RSPs) and other special education professionals and offers conferences, professional training and advocacy efforts.
Find comprehensive salary guides for special education teachers in these states: California | Georgia | Hawaii | Illinois | Texas
This special education teacher salary guide for California aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the teaching profession in the state. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
