Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education Salary in Phoenix, AZ

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ

Median annual salary $35,390 -4.7% vs national
Median hourly $17.01
10th percentile $31,130
90th percentile $46,080
Employed locally 7,090
National median $37,120

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Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
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    In Phoenix, AZ, preschool teachers, except those in special education, earn a median annual salary of $35,390, which translates to approximately $17.01 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $37,120. When compared to local economic conditions, preschool teachers' earnings represent about 41.8% of the area's median household income of $84,703. Despite being a vital component of early childhood education, these salaries suggest that preschool teaching positions in Phoenix are compensated less generously than other occupations within the region.

    The salary spectrum for preschool teachers in Phoenix reflects significant variation based on experience and tenure in the field. Entry-level workers typically earn closer to the 10th percentile mark of $31,130 annually, whereas those at the 25th percentile earn about $34,440. In contrast, more experienced educators can command salaries nearing the 75th percentile, which is approximately $37,350 per year. Top earners in this field reach up to the 90th percentile with annual earnings of $46,080. This disparity in wages is largely driven by factors such as years of experience, educational background, and the acquisition of specialized skills or certifications that enhance an educator's qualifications and effectiveness in the classroom. Additionally, opportunities for career advancement within early childhood education institutions can further influence these earning differences.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $31,130
    25th
    $34,440
    50th (median)
    $35,390
    75th
    $37,350
    90th
    $46,080

    Phoenix economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $84,703 2023 • Census ACS
    Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary vs area income 42% Median Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary is 58% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

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

    The median hourly wage for Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education in Phoenix, AZ is $17.01, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $23.45 or more per hour.

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

    The median Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education salary in Phoenix, AZ is 4.7% 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 Phoenix?

    Entry-level Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education (10th percentile) earn around $31,130 per year in Phoenix, AZ. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $34,440.