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Average Special Education Teachers, Secondary School Salary in Illinois

Special Education Teachers in secondary schools across Illinois are earning an impressive average annual salary of $82,390. This figure substantially surpasses the national average of $61,380, indicating a strong demand and potentially higher value placed on these educators within the state. Factors such as state funding, specific educational needs, and the overall economic landscape of Illinois likely contribute to this elevated compensation.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $82,390 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.6% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $124,560.
  • Outlook: With a dedicated local workforce of 8,890 Special Education Teachers, Secondary School, Illinois demonstrates a significant commitment to this field. The Location Quotient of 1.39 suggests that this profession is more concentrated in Illinois than the national average, implying a robust and potentially growing job market with sustained demand for these specialized educators.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$82,390

The average Special Education Teachers, Secondary School in Illinois earns+34.2%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$39.6

Weekly

$1,584

Monthly

$6,866

Special Education Teachers, Secondary School Salary Distribution in Illinois

Salary progression for Special Education Teachers in Illinois typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, but dedicated professionals can expect their earnings to increase significantly as they gain years of experience and expertise. The gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries, often reflected in salary percentile distributions, signifies substantial career growth opportunities and earning potential within the state.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty.10% (Entry)$48,250$23.2
Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development.25% (Junior)$61,793$29.7
Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers.50% (Median)$76,960$37
Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP.75% (Senior)$102,988$49.5
AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant.90% (Expert)$124,560$59.9

Detailed Special Education Teachers, Secondary School Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$82,390

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$89,749

Adjusted for COL (91.8)

The nominal average salary of $82,390 in Illinois presents a favorable financial outlook, especially when considering the state's Cost of Living Index of 91.8, which is below the national average of 100. This means that the purchasing power of an Illinois-based Special Education Teacher's salary is likely higher than the national average, allowing for a better quality of life and greater financial flexibility.

Job Market Context

8,890

Total Jobs

1.465

Per 1K Jobs

1.39

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.39, Illinois has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Special Education Teachers, Secondary School roles compared to the national norm.

The Location Quotient of 1.39 for Special Education Teachers, Secondary School in Illinois indicates a higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests a competitive yet abundant job market, where employers may actively seek out qualified candidates, and educators have a good selection of opportunities within the state.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Special Education Teachers, Secondary Schools?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Special Education Teachers, Secondary School make in Illinois?

The median annual salary for a Special Education Teachers, Secondary School in Illinois is $82,390. This typically ranges from $48,250 for entry-level positions to $124,560 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Illinois is 34.2% higher than the national median of $61,380.

Is Illinois a lucrative place for Special Education Teachers, Secondary Schools?

Yes, Illinois offers a lucrative environment for Special Education Teachers, Secondary Schools.The average salary of $82,390 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is below the national average, enhancing real earning potential.

Is Illinois a good place to live for Special Education Teachers, Secondary 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 ($70,090) and Decatur, IL.

How does the Illinois salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for Special Education Teachers, Secondary School in Illinois is $82,390, which is considerably higher than the national average of $61,380.

What is the concentration of Special Education Teachers in Illinois?

Illinois has a higher concentration of Special Education Teachers, Secondary School than the national average, as indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.39.

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 $82,390 salary provides greater purchasing power.

What is the size of the Special Education Teacher workforce in Illinois?

There are approximately 8,890 Special Education Teachers, Secondary School employed in Illinois.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 8,890 employees in the Illinois area with a job density of 1.465 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.