Average Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary in Portland-South Portland, ME
Special Education Teachers in the Portland-South Portland, ME area are earning an impressive average annual salary of $68,990. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $60,600, indicating a strong local demand and potentially higher compensation for these vital educators. The specialized nature of their work and the specific needs of the local student population likely contribute to this elevated pay scale.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $68,990 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $81,560.
- Outlook: The job market for Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Portland-South Portland, ME, appears robust. With a total local workforce of 240 in this role, and a Location Quotient of 1.36, the concentration of these professionals is notably higher than the national average. This suggests a strong, sustained demand for their expertise within the region, pointing towards a stable and potentially growing job market.
Salary Overview
The average Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Portland-South Portland, ME earns+13.8%above the national average.
$33.2
$1,327
$5,749
Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Special Education Teachers in Portland-South Portland, ME, have seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing awareness of special education needs, legislative changes, and a persistent demand for qualified educators likely contribute to upward salary adjustments.
Special Education Teachers, Middle School Salary Distribution in Portland-South Portland, ME
Salary progression for Special Education Teachers in Portland-South Portland, ME, typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with advanced degrees and a proven track record can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify career progression opportunities and the value placed on expertise and tenure.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty. | 10% (Entry) | $48,380 | $23.3 |
| Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development. | 25% (Junior) | $51,743 | $24.9 |
| Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers. | 50% (Median) | $78,280 | $37.6 |
| Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP. | 75% (Senior) | $86,238 | $41.5 |
| AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant. | 90% (Expert) | $81,560 | $39.2 |
Detailed Special Education Teachers, Middle School Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$68,990
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$68,990
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average salary of $68,990 in Portland-South Portland, ME, is particularly attractive given the local Cost of Living Index is exactly at the national average of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Special Education Teacher's salary in this area is equivalent to the national standard, allowing their higher earnings to translate directly into a comparable standard of living.
Job Market Context
240
Total Jobs
0.842
Per 1K Jobs
1.36
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.36, Portland-South Portland, ME has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Special Education Teachers, Middle School roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.36 for Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Portland-South Portland, ME, indicates a market that is 36% more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a higher demand relative to the national proportion of workers in this field, implying a competitive but potentially rewarding environment for those seeking employment or career advancement.
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Comparing salaries near Portland-South Portland, ME
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Special Education Teachers, Middle School make in Portland-South Portland, ME?
The median annual salary for a Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Portland-South Portland, ME is $68,990. This typically ranges from $48,380 for entry-level positions to $81,560 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Portland-South Portland, ME is 13.8% higher than the national median of $60,600.
Is Portland-South Portland, ME a lucrative place for Special Education Teachers, Middle Schools?
Yes, it is a lucrative area.The average salary of $68,990 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is on par with the national index, offering strong earning potential.
Is Portland-South Portland, ME a good place to live for Special Education Teachers, Middle Schools?
The Cost of Living Index in Portland-South Portland, ME is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Portland-South Portland, ME?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lewiston-Auburn, ME ($61,250) and Central New Hampshire nonmetropolitan area.
How does the Portland-South Portland, ME salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Special Education Teachers, Middle School in Portland-South Portland, ME is $68,990, which is notably higher than the national average of $60,600.
What does the Location Quotient of 1.36 mean for this role?
A Location Quotient of 1.36 signifies that Special Education Teachers are more concentrated in Portland-South Portland, ME, than the national average, suggesting a higher demand or a larger proportion of these professionals in the local workforce.
How does the Cost of Living impact the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the Portland-South Portland, ME area has a cost of living that matches the national average. This means the higher salary of $68,990 offers strong purchasing power locally.
What is the total number of Special Education Teachers, Middle School in this area?
There are approximately 240 Special Education Teachers, Middle School employed within the Portland-South Portland, ME metropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 240 employees in the Portland-South Portland, ME area with a job density of 0.842 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 Portland-South Portland, ME