Special Education Teacher Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa$55,200 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Special Education Teacher Jobs in Des Moines

Looking for a Special Education Teacher job in Des Moines? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Special Education Teacher in Des Moines, IA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Des Moines has a strong job market for Special Education Teachers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Special Education Teacher Salary in Des Moines

Entry Level
$35,190
Median
$55,200
Senior Level
$79,350

Special Education Teacher salaries in Des Moines are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

IEP DevelopmentDifferentiated InstructionBehavior ManagementCommunicationPatience

Special Education Teacher Job Market in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Special Education Teacher professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Des Moines offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Insurance leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Special Education Teacher roles across various sectors. The market for Special Education Teacher positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Special Education Teachers in Des Moines

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Special Education Teachers in Des Moines include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines as a Special Education Teacher means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Special Education Teacher salary, rent would consume about 39% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

92
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Special Education Teacher in Des Moines

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Special Education Teacher professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Iowa

Iowa has relatively high state income taxes. A Special Education Teacher earning $55,200 might pay approximately $4,416 in state income tax. However, Iowa's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Special Education Teachers

The job outlook for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Des Moines offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include IEP Development, Differentiated Instruction, Behavior Management, Communication.

Relocating to Des Moines

Des Moines's affordable cost of living means your Special Education Teacher salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Iowa has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Special Education Teacher salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average Special Education Teacher salary in Des Moines, IA is $55,200 per year. Entry-level Special Education Teachers typically start around $35,190, while experienced professionals can earn $79,350 or more. The national average for Special Education Teacher roles is $60,000.

How many Special Education Teacher jobs are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Special Education Teacher professionals. Major employers hiring Special Education Teachers include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Insurance and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Des Moines a good city for Special Education Teachers?

Des Moines is an solid choice for Special Education Teachers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's insurance industry creates strong demand for education professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines?

Top skills for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines include IEP Development, Differentiated Instruction, Behavior Management, Communication, Patience. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines?

Des Moines's cost of living is near the national average (92% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Special Education Teachers in Des Moines?

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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