Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Special Education Teachers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $69,500 | $52,900 | $90,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $86,400 | $65,700 | $112,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $99,400 | $75,600 | $129,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $119,200 | $90,700 | $155,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $135,100 | $102,800 | $175,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Special Education Teachers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Special Education Teacher salary in the Los Angeles metro is $99,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $75,600 to $129,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $164,100 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays -9% relative to the California state median for Special Education Teachers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +35%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Special Education Teachers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Special Education Teacher salary of $99,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Special Education Teachers in Los Angeles start around $69,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $119,200 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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