Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education Salary in Cleveland, OH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Cleveland, OH

Median annual salary $34,320 -7.5% vs national
Median hourly $16.50
10th percentile $27,970
90th percentile $50,030
Employed locally 3,360
National median $37,120

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Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
in
Cleveland, OH
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    In Cleveland, OH, preschool teachers, except those in special education, typically earn a median annual salary of $34,320, which is slightly below the national median for this occupation at $37,120. When compared to local household incomes, their earnings represent approximately half of the area’s median household income of $68,507. This disparity highlights how preschool teachers' salaries in Cleveland are relatively modest within the broader economic context of the region. Additionally, with a local unemployment rate of 3.80%, job prospects for those entering or changing careers into this field remain competitive but stable.

    For entry-level preschool teachers in Cleveland, salaries tend to start around the 10th percentile mark at approximately $27,970 annually, which reflects their initial position in terms of experience and possibly credentials. As they gain more experience and seniority, salaries can increase significantly; by reaching the 90th percentile, a teacher could earn up to $50,030 annually. This substantial salary growth is largely driven by factors such as years of service, additional responsibilities, specialized skills, or further education that enhances their qualifications. The range between entry-level earnings and those at the higher end underscores how experience and professional development significantly impact compensation in this field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $27,970
    25th
    $29,190
    50th (median)
    $34,320
    75th
    $36,890
    90th
    $50,030

    Cleveland economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $68,507 2023 • Census ACS
    Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary vs area income 50% Median Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary is 50% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education make per hour in Cleveland?

    The median hourly wage for Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education in Cleveland, OH is $16.50, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $25.30 or more per hour.

    Is Cleveland above or below average for Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salaries?

    The median Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary in Cleveland, OH is 7.5% below the national median of $37,120. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education in Cleveland?

    Entry-level Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education (10th percentile) earn around $27,970 per year in Cleveland, OH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $29,190.