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Special Education Teachers (Preschool) Salary in California

Special Education Teachers (Preschool) in California earn a median of $59,550 a year, −8% compared with the U.S. median.

Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers

Median pay
$59,550
vs. U.S. median
−8% ($64,830)
Rank among states
31 of 45
Jobs in the state
2,510

Pay range in California

The lowest-paid 10% earn under $38,050; the top 10% earn over $117,700. Nationally the range is $45,620 to $130,040.

States ranked near California

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Similar jobs in California

Special Education Teachers (Preschool) pay in California

How much do special education teachers (preschool) make in California?

The median is $59,550 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $38,050 and the top 10% earn over $117,700. BLS OEWS May 2025.

Is California a good state for special education teachers (preschool)?

On pay alone it ranks 31 of 45 (−8% vs. the national median of $64,830). Living costs are not included.

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Sources. Pay and employment: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 (national and state files). Pay is not adjusted for living costs. Data Sources & Licenses