20 Jobs That Pay More Than the Average American Salary

Written By Jill Taylor

The job market is super competitive, but there are plenty of positions that pay way above the national average. Take a look at this list of 20 high-paying jobs that offer not just financial stability but also awesome opportunities for growth and advancement in different fields.

Software Developer

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Software developers love creating and improving computer programs and apps. Since their skills are so important in the tech world, they’re in high demand and earn a good salary. According to U.S. News, “The BLS projects the software development field will grow by about 26% by 2032, with 410,400 jobs added by that time.”

Registered Nurse

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We all know how registered nurses offer crucial care and support to their patients. Their skills are always needed, which means job stability and good pay. Plus, many nurses get great benefits and chances to move up the career ladder, so it’s a rewarding job both financially and personally.

Data Scientist

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Analyzing and interpreting complex data is what data scientists do best, helping organizations make smarter decisions. Their skills are in high demand in sectors like finance, healthcare, and tech. As the demand for these experts goes up, so do the great salaries and many career opportunities.

Physician Assistant

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Working alongside doctors, physician assistants provide medical care, conduct exams, and prescribe meds. They’re a crucial part of healthcare, often earning high salaries thanks to their advanced training and important role. Plus, this career offers great job security and a deep sense of fulfillment.

Financial Analyst

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Financial analysts monitor investment performance, giving businesses and individuals much-needed insights. They help their clients make smart financial decisions, which in turn results in great earnings. Many work in banking, insurance, and investment firms, enjoying stable and rewarding careers.

Marketing Manager

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Every business needs a marketing manager to develop and execute strategies for promoting products and services. They’re the ones driving sales and brand awareness, which often means they earn pretty attractive salaries. Marketing managers can work in all sorts of industries like retail, tech, and entertainment, so there are plenty of career paths to explore.

Physical Therapist

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Physical therapists help people bounce back from injuries and manage chronic conditions with customized treatment plans. Their unique skills are highly sought after, offering great pay and career growth opportunities. Plus, there’s the awesome feeling of making a real difference in patients’ lives.

Information Security Analyst

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Computer systems and networks need to be kept safe from cyber threats, which is why information security analysts are in such high demand. Their skills are crucial for stopping data breaches, so they often get great salaries and job security. With cyber threats always changing, there’s a big need for skilled security analysts in every industry.

Construction Manager

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Construction managers keep an eye on building projects, making sure everything gets done on time and within budget. Their leadership and organizational skills pay off with good salaries. They often handle all sorts of projects, from residential homes to big commercial buildings, providing diverse and fulfilling career opportunities.

Pharmacist

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You may think pharmacists only dispense medications, but they also offer crucial health advice to patients. Their in-depth knowledge and training make them super valuable in healthcare, so they often have great earning potential. You’ll find many pharmacists working in hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies, enjoying stable and well-paid careers.

Civil Engineer

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Civil engineers design and manage infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and buildings. Their skills are key to making sure these structures are safe and functional, which means they often earn great salaries. They work in both the public and private sectors, playing a big role in shaping our communities with essential projects.

Dental Hygienist

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Dental hygienists play a key role in keeping our smiles healthy and bright. They not only offer preventive oral care but also teach us how to maintain good dental health. Thanks to their important work, they enjoy competitive salaries and job stability. You’ll often find them in dental offices, where they get a great mix of patient interaction and clinical work.

Aerospace Engineer

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Being the brains behind designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, and all those cool related systems means aerospace engineers score some pretty high-paying jobs. A lot of them work for government agencies, defense contractors, and private aerospace companies, where they get to be part of amazing projects and push tech forward.

Human Resources Manager

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Human resource managers take care of recruiting, training, and developing employees in an organization. They earn good salaries for effectively managing workforce needs. HR managers play a crucial role in creating a positive work environment and driving an organization’s success.

Occupational Therapist

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Occupational therapists help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. Their specialized care is essential for patient rehabilitation, and it can lead to well-paying careers. You’ll find occupational therapists working in all sorts of places, like hospitals, schools, and private practices, which means there are lots of job opportunities out there.

IT Manager

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Almost every industry needs IT managers, giving them stable and well-paying careers. IT managers manage an organization’s tech setup, making sure everything runs smoothly and securely. They’ve got a real talent for managing tech resources, and it comes with some great pay, too.

Lawyer

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Lawyers give legal advice and represent people and organizations. Navigating the legal system is highly valued, which means they can earn quite a bit. Many work in private practice, corporate settings, or government agencies, offering a range of career paths and specializations.

Physician

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Doctors diagnose and treat illnesses, offering essential medical care to patients. Their in-depth training and skills come with high salaries. Physicians can choose from various specialties, like family medicine or surgery, and enjoy rewarding careers that make a big difference in patients’ lives.

Management Consultant

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Organizations improve their performance with the help of management consultants who analyze business problems and develop strategies. These insights are highly valued, leading to well-paying jobs. Often working for consulting firms or as independent contractors, they enjoy flexibility and diverse project opportunities, making their careers both rewarding and dynamic.

Airline Pilot

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Airline pilots fly and manage planes, making sure passengers are safe and comfortable. They go through advanced training and get paid well for their responsibilities. Many work for commercial airlines, enjoying travel perks, job stability, and chances to move up the career ladder.

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