Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education Salary in Indianapolis, IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood, IN

Median annual salary $36,190 -2.5% vs national
Median hourly $17.40
10th percentile $28,760
90th percentile $47,220
Employed locally 2,970
National median $37,120

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Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
in
Indianapolis, IN
vs

    In Indianapolis, IN, preschool teachers, except for those in special education, earn a median annual salary of $36,190, which is slightly below the national median of $37,120. The median hourly wage stands at $17.40. When compared to the local area's median household income of $77,065, the earnings for these educators represent approximately 47% of the typical household’s total income. This comparison highlights a significant gap between what preschool teachers earn and the broader financial landscape of their community. Such disparities may reflect both the societal valuation of early childhood education roles and the economic realities faced by those in this profession.

    Entry-level preschool teachers in Indianapolis generally find themselves at or near the 10th percentile, earning about $28,760 annually, while more experienced educators can earn up to the 90th percentile with salaries reaching approximately $47,220. The wide salary range is influenced by factors such as experience, education level, and geographic location within the city, which may offer varying cost-of-living adjustments. Experience drives a considerable portion of this difference; as teachers progress in their careers, they often gain specialized skills or certifications that command higher salaries. Additionally, schools with more resources might offer better pay to attract seasoned educators who can contribute effectively to program development and student outcomes.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $28,760
    25th
    $30,540
    50th (median)
    $36,190
    75th
    $38,790
    90th
    $47,220

    Indianapolis economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $77,065 2023 • Census ACS
    Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary vs area income 47% Median Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary is 53% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education in Indianapolis, IN is $17.40, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $24.87 or more per hour.

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

    The median Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary in Indianapolis, IN is 2.5% 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 Indianapolis?

    Entry-level Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education (10th percentile) earn around $28,760 per year in Indianapolis, IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $30,540.