Average Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary in Illinois
Special Education Teachers in middle schools across Illinois command an impressive average annual salary of $73,040, significantly outpacing the national average of $60,600. This higher compensation is often driven by a combination of factors unique to the state, including specific educational funding models, demand for specialized skills, and the overall economic landscape of Illinois.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $73,040 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $101,550.
- Outlook: Illinois boasts a robust job market for middle school Special Education Teachers, with a local workforce of 4,390 individuals in this role. The Location Quotient of 1.17 indicates a concentration of these professionals that is 17% higher than the national average, suggesting a strong and sustained demand for their expertise within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Illinois earns+20.5%above the national average.
$35.1
$1,405
$6,087
Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the average salary for Special Education Teachers in Illinois has experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing awareness of special education needs, legislative changes, and inflation likely contribute to an upward trajectory in compensation for these vital educators.
Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary Distribution in Illinois
Career progression for Special Education Teachers in Illinois typically correlates with increased salary. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while experienced educators with advanced degrees and specialized certifications can command significantly higher salaries, potentially reaching into the top percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior salaries reflects the value placed on accumulated expertise and proven effectiveness.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty. | 10% (Entry) | $48,480 | $23.3 |
| Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development. | 25% (Junior) | $54,780 | $26.3 |
| Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers. | 50% (Median) | $71,790 | $34.5 |
| Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP. | 75% (Senior) | $91,300 | $43.9 |
| AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant. | 90% (Expert) | $101,550 | $48.8 |
Detailed Special Education Teachers, Middle School Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$73,040
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$79,564
Adjusted for COL (91.8)
The average annual salary of $73,040 in Illinois presents a favorable financial situation when considering the local Cost of Living Index of 91.8. This index, which is below the national average of 100, suggests that the purchasing power of an Illinois teacher's salary is greater than the national average, allowing for a comfortable standard of living.
Job Market Context
4,390
Total Jobs
0.723
Per 1K Jobs
1.17
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.17, Illinois has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Special Education Teachers, Middle School roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.17, Illinois demonstrates a higher concentration of Special Education Teachers than the national average. This indicates a potentially competitive market for new entrants but also signifies a well-established and recognized need for these professionals within the state's educational system, suggesting good job security for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Special Education Teachers, Middle School
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Bloomington, IL Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary | $61,740↓ 15% | 9 mi |
| Decatur, IL Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary | $58,550↓ 20% | 34 mi |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary | $59,230↓ 19% | 41 mi |
| Peoria, IL Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary | $62,600↓ 14% | 43 mi |
| Springfield, IL Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary | $73,460↑ 1% | 53 mi |
Comparing salaries near Illinois
Hiring Special Education Teachers, Middle Schools?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Special Education Teachers, Middle School make in Illinois?
The median annual salary for a Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Illinois is $73,040. This typically ranges from $48,480 for entry-level positions to $101,550 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Illinois is 20.5% higher than the national median of $60,600.
Is Illinois a lucrative place for Special Education Teachers, Middle Schools?
Yes, Illinois offers a lucrative environment for middle school Special Education Teachers.The average salary of $73,040 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is below the national benchmark, enhancing real earning potential.
Is Illinois a good place to live for Special Education Teachers, Middle Schools?
With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Illinois?
Some top paying nearby cities include Bloomington, IL ($61,740) and Decatur, IL.
How does the Illinois salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Special Education Teachers in middle schools in Illinois is $73,040, which is substantially higher than the national average of $60,600.
What is the concentration of Special Education Teachers in Illinois?
Illinois has a concentration of Special Education Teachers that is 17% higher than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.17, suggesting strong local demand.
How does the cost of living affect the salary in Illinois?
With a Cost of Living Index of 91.8, Illinois is more affordable than the national average, meaning the $73,040 salary offers greater purchasing power to its residents.
What is the size of the Special Education Teacher workforce in Illinois?
There are approximately 4,390 Special Education Teachers working in middle schools within Illinois.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 4,390 employees in the Illinois area with a job density of 0.723 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, Middle School • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Illinois