Average Starting Salary for Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (2020-2021)

Per the National Education Association (NEA), the average starting salary for teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing in the United States for the 2020–2021 school year was $55,600.

Variability Factors

• State and District: Wide range (e.g., >$60k in NY, CA, MA; <$45k in some Southern/Rural districts).
• Education Level: Master's degree plus credits → higher salary lane.
• Experience Credit: Prior teaching or related work may advance step placement.
• Certification: Specialized deaf education certification often required.
• Setting: Residential schools vs. mainstream public vs. private.

Additional Compensation

• Signing bonuses (shortage areas)
• Loan forgiveness (Teacher Loan Forgiveness, PSLF)
• Stipends for extra duties (mentoring, curriculum development, summer school)

Check state education department and district salary schedules for current figures.