Average Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Salary in Knoxville, TN
Special Education Teachers in Knoxville, TN, earn an average annual salary of $57,970, which is slightly below the national average of $61,640. This difference can be attributed to a variety of local economic factors, including the specific demand for specialized educational services and the overall cost structure within the Knoxville metropolitan area. While the nominal salary may appear lower, it's crucial to consider the local economic context.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $57,970 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $71,290.
- Outlook: The job market for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Knoxville, TN, shows a moderate level of concentration, indicated by a Location Quotient of 0.64. With a total local workforce of approximately 400 individuals in this role and 0.96 jobs per 1,000 workers, the demand appears stable but not exceptionally high. This suggests a consistent need for these professionals within the community, without an oversupply or a critical shortage.
Salary Overview
The average Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Knoxville, TN earns-6.0%below the national average.
$27.9
$1,115
$4,831
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this niche role in Knoxville is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Special Education Teachers have seen gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increased awareness of special education needs, evolving pedagogical approaches, and inflation likely contribute to a steady upward trajectory in compensation for these vital educators.
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Salary Distribution in Knoxville, TN
Career progression for Special Education Teachers in Knoxville, TN, typically involves salary increases tied to experience and specialized skills. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile of the salary range, while seasoned professionals with advanced certifications or extensive experience can command salaries significantly higher than the average. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries reflects the value placed on expertise and dedication in this field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty. | 10% (Entry) | $48,020 | $23.1 |
| Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development. | 25% (Junior) | $43,478 | $20.9 |
| Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers. | 50% (Median) | $60,830 | $29.2 |
| Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP. | 75% (Senior) | $72,463 | $34.8 |
| AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant. | 90% (Expert) | $71,290 | $34.3 |
Detailed Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$57,970
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$57,970
Adjusted for COL (100)
For Special Education Teachers considering a move to Knoxville, TN, the average salary of $57,970 aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of the average salary in Knoxville is equivalent to the national average, suggesting that the nominal salary offers a comparable standard of living to other areas across the country.
Job Market Context
400
Total Jobs
0.96
Per 1K Jobs
0.64
Location Quotient
Knoxville, TN has 0.64x the national average concentration of Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
The Location Quotient of 0.64 for Special Education Teachers in Knoxville, TN, indicates that this profession is less concentrated in the local job market compared to the national average. This suggests that while there is a presence of these roles, the market is not saturated, potentially offering a stable environment for qualified individuals seeking employment without facing intense competition from a large pool of similar professionals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School
Comparing salaries near Knoxville, TN
Hiring Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School make in Knoxville, TN?
The median annual salary for a Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School in Knoxville, TN is $57,970. This typically ranges from $48,020 for entry-level positions to $71,290 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Knoxville, TN is 6.0% lower than the national median of $61,640.
Is Knoxville, TN a lucrative place for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $57,970 is below the national average of $61,640, although the cost of living is on par with the national average.
Is Knoxville, TN a good place to live for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools?
The Cost of Living Index in Knoxville, TN is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Knoxville, TN?
Some top paying nearby cities include Cleveland, TN ($51,760) and Asheville, NC.
How does the cost of living in Knoxville affect the Special Education Teacher salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Knoxville's cost of living matches the national average. This means the $57,970 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary, making it neither exceptionally high nor low in real terms.
What is the job market like for Special Education Teachers in Knoxville?
The job market shows a moderate concentration, with 0.96 jobs per 1,000 workers and a total local workforce of 400. This indicates a steady demand for these professionals.
How does experience impact salary for Special Education Teachers in Knoxville?
Experience is a significant factor, with entry-level positions earning less than the average, while senior teachers with specialized skills can earn considerably more, reflecting career growth opportunities.
Is Knoxville a good place to relocate for a Special Education Teacher?
Relocation to Knoxville offers a cost of living that aligns with the national average, meaning your salary will likely provide a similar standard of living as in many other parts of the country.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 400 employees in the Knoxville, TN area with a job density of 0.96 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Knoxville, TN