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How much does a Special Needs Care Worker make?

The average salary for a Special Needs Care Worker is $40,762 per year in the US.

Special Needs Care Workers play a vital role in helping individuals with disabilities. The job offers both personal fulfillment and a competitive salary. On average, a Special Needs Care Worker can expect to earn about $40,762 per year. This figure includes a range of salaries that depend on experience, location, and the specific setting.

Here are some details about the salary distribution for Special Needs Care Workers:

  • About 5.75% earn less than $28,000 a year.
  • 21.38% earn between $28,000 and $31,818.
  • 24.41% earn between $31,818 and $35,636.
  • 14.22% earn between $35,636 and $39,455.
  • 16.24% earn between $39,455 and $43,273.
  • 5.55% earn between $43,273 and $47,091.
  • 1.51% earn between $47,091 and $50,909.
  • 1.71% earn between $50,909 and $54,727.
  • 1.31% earn between $54,727 and $58,545.
  • 1.31% earn between $58,545 and $62,364.
  • 1.61% earn more than $62,364.

View Special Needs Care Worker jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Special Needs Care Worker?

Job seekers looking for high-paying roles as Special Needs Care Workers will find some of the best opportunities in Austin, TX, with an average salary of $56,600. Cities such as Santa Rosa, CA, and Little Rock, AR, also offer competitive salaries, making them attractive choices. San Diego, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, provide decent wages, though they are slightly lower compared to the top earners.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Special Needs Care Worker jobs, highlighting Austin, TX with the highest at $56,600 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $39,723.
  1. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $56,600
    In Austin, individuals supporting those with special needs often work with local non-profits like Austin Child Guidance Center. The city's warm climate and vibrant community make it a great place to thrive in this rewarding role. Working with organizations like Austin Child Guidance Center offers a stable environment for growth.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Austin, TX


  2. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $41,119
    Santa Rosa provides a supportive community for care workers. Companies such as Sonoma County Office of Education offer numerous opportunities to make a difference. The city’s serene environment helps caregivers focus on providing the best care.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  3. Little Rock, AR
    Average Salary: $40,238
    Little Rock is home to several organizations dedicated to special needs care, including the Arkansas Center for Developmental Disabilities. Here, caregivers find meaningful work that makes a real impact. The supportive community makes it a rewarding place to work.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Little Rock, AR


  4. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $39,793
    San Diego offers a mix of urban and coastal living, providing a unique backdrop for care workers. Companies like Rady Children's Hospital offer excellent benefits and growth opportunities. The city's mild weather and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal place for this career.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $39,723
    Los Angeles provides diverse opportunities in special needs care. Employers like the Los Angeles Unified School District offer various programs and resources. The city's dynamic environment ensures a fulfilling experience for caregivers.
    Find Special Needs Care Worker jobs in Los Angeles, CA

What are the best companies a Special Needs Care Worker can work for?

Pacific Homecare Services stands out as a top employer for Special Needs Care Workers, offering an average salary of $46,037. The company values its workers and provides a supportive work environment. Another great option is First Choice In-Home Care, which pays $46,030 on average. This company prioritizes the well-being of both caregivers and the people they assist.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Special Needs Care Worker jobs, highlighting Pacific Homecare Services with the highest at $46,037 and BAYADA Home Health Care with the lowest at $33,840.
  1. Pacific Homecare Services
    Average Salary: $46,037
    Pacific Homecare Services offers Special Needs Care Worker positions with a strong focus on personalized care. They operate in California, Oregon, and Washington, providing care in homes and community settings.


  2. First Choice In-Home Care
    Average Salary: $46,030
    First Choice In-Home Care is known for its commitment to quality care. They serve clients in multiple states, including Florida, Maryland, and New York. The company emphasizes family-like care and comprehensive support.


  3. Pulaski County Special School District
    Average Salary: $40,964
    Pulaski County Special School District provides Special Needs Care Worker roles focused on educational support. They operate in Arkansas and offer various programs for children with special needs.


  4. accessAbilities, Inc.
    Average Salary: $38,000
    accessAbilities, Inc. works to empower individuals with disabilities. They provide care and support services in multiple states, including Ohio and West Virginia, focusing on independence and community integration.


  5. Community Horizons LLC
    Average Salary: $37,299
    Community Horizons LLC offers positions that focus on community living and support. They operate in states like Minnesota and Wisconsin, aiming to enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs.


  6. 24 Hour Home Care
    Average Salary: $36,718
    24 Hour Home Care provides around-the-clock support for individuals with special needs. They serve clients in Texas and emphasize a compassionate and professional approach to caregiving.


  7. Christian Servants Home Care, LLC
    Average Salary: $34,382
    Christian Servants Home Care, LLC focuses on providing care with a Christian foundation. They operate in Indiana and offer a variety of services to support individuals with special needs.


  8. BAYADA Home Health Care
    Average Salary: $33,840
    BAYADA Home Health Care offers care for those with special needs in their homes. They operate in multiple states, providing personalized care plans and a supportive environment.

How to earn more as a Special Needs Care Worker?

Special Needs Care Workers play a vital role in supporting individuals who require additional assistance due to disabilities or other special needs. While this profession is rewarding, it is important to understand ways to enhance earning potential. Several strategies can help boost income without compromising the quality of care provided.

Pursue advanced certifications to increase earning potential. Agencies often value workers with additional qualifications. Certifications in areas such as CPR, First Aid, or specialized care for autism or other conditions can make a significant difference. These credentials not only validate skills but also increase confidence in the workplace.

Gaining experience and specializing in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay. Positions in urban areas or in schools often offer better salaries. Agencies may also pay more for evening, night, or weekend shifts. Experience with certain conditions or age groups can also make a worker more desirable.

  1. Advanced Certifications: Obtain certifications in CPR, First Aid, and specialized care to increase earning potential.
  2. Gain Experience: Specialize in high-demand areas such as urban settings, schools, or specific conditions.
  3. Flexible Work Schedules: Be open to evening, night, or weekend shifts which can offer higher pay.
  4. Consider Agency Work: Agencies often pay more for experienced workers with specialized skills.
  5. Networking: Build relationships with other care workers and healthcare professionals to learn about higher-paying opportunities.

Currently 141 Special Needs Care Worker job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Special Needs Care Worker in the US?

Learn what a Special Needs Care Worker does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Special Needs Care Worker today.
Position
Overview
Special Needs Care Worker
141 Job Openings