Pursuing a career that is both fulfilling and financially rewarding is a common aspiration. In the United States, certain professions stand out for their exceptional earning potential, often reaching six-figure annual salaries. While the medical sector predominantly features in the list of Jobs That Make The Most Money, lucrative opportunities extend beyond healthcare. These high-paying roles typically demand advanced education, often requiring master’s, doctoral, or other professional degrees, reflecting the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to excel.
However, pathways to substantial income also exist without the prerequisite of a traditional four-year degree. These alternative routes often involve focused training programs and specialized certifications that equip individuals with in-demand expertise.
If you’re driven by the desire to secure a high-paying job and are strategically planning your education and career trajectory, understanding which professions offer the greatest financial rewards is crucial. This article delves into the jobs that make the most money in the US, providing detailed insights into their specific requirements, median salaries, and future employment outlook, empowering you to make informed decisions about your professional future.
Exploring the 13 Highest-Paying Jobs in the USA
From the intricacies of neurosurgery to the complexities of corporate leadership, the spectrum of high-earning professions is diverse. Here, we spotlight 13 of the jobs that make the most money in the USA, offering a roadmap to potential financial success.
#1. Surgeon: Earning Potential Averaging $343,990 Annually
Surgeons, excluding those in highly specialized fields like cardiac or neurosurgery, command an impressive average annual salary of $343,990. Categorized within the broader group of physicians and surgeons, this profession enjoys a stable projected job growth of 4% over the next decade, indicating consistent demand and job security.
The journey to becoming a surgeon is rigorous, requiring a bachelor’s degree followed by a medical degree and the completion of a demanding minimum five-year residency program. This extensive educational path typically spans at least 13 years, reflecting the depth of knowledge and practical skills required to perform complex surgical procedures.
Upon completing their extensive training, surgeons are entrusted with the critical responsibility of performing intricate surgeries to address a wide range of medical conditions, from traumatic injuries to congenital deformities and life-threatening diseases. Their expertise is vital in restoring health and improving the quality of life for patients.
#2. Anesthesiologist: Reaching Heights of $339,470 Annual Income
Anesthesiologists secure the position as the second highest-paying medical job and one of the most lucrative professions overall, with an impressive average annual income of $339,470. Aligned with physicians and surgeons, anesthesiologists also benefit from a steady job outlook of 4%, mirroring the average growth rate across professions.
The educational prerequisites for anesthesiologists are substantial, commencing with a pre-med bachelor’s degree, followed by a rigorous medical school diploma, a specialized residency in anesthesiology, and mandatory professional licensure.
Anesthesiologists’ critical skills encompass a deep understanding of pharmacology and patient physiology. They are responsible for meticulously assessing, selecting, and administering anesthesia before, during, and after surgical procedures to ensure patient comfort and safety. Furthermore, they play a crucial role in closely monitoring patients’ vital signs throughout the entire perioperative period, responding to any physiological changes to maintain patient stability.
#3. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: Earning an Average of $334,310 Per Year
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons rank as the third highest-paid professionals on our list, earning an average annual salary of $334,310. Classified within the dental profession, these specialists experience an even more promising job outlook of 5%, indicating a growth trajectory that surpasses other specialized surgical fields. This faster growth reflects increasing demand for their specialized services.
Becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon demands a robust educational foundation, starting with a bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-focused discipline. This is followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and a comprehensive residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery. While not strictly mandatory, a medical degree and board certification are highly advantageous and commonly pursued within this competitive specialty, further enhancing career prospects and credibility.
These highly skilled surgeons specialize in procedures involving the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaw. Their expertise is sought after to correct deformities, treat injuries, and improve both the functionality and aesthetic appearance of these critical anatomical areas.
#4. Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OB-GYN): Securing $278,660 in Median Annual Wages
Obstetricians and gynecologists, vital specialists in women’s health, earn a median annual wage of $278,660. Mirroring other physician specialties, they maintain a stable job outlook of 4%, ensuring consistent demand for their services.
The educational path for OB-GYNs begins with a bachelor’s degree, often in a pre-med curriculum, followed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, and a four-year residency specifically in obstetrics and gynecology.
While board certification isn’t compulsory, it’s widely recommended as a mark of professional excellence. Many OB-GYNs further specialize by undertaking an additional two to three-year fellowship in subspecialties such as maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, or gynecologic oncology, allowing them to focus on specific areas of women’s health.
The core responsibilities of obstetricians and gynecologists center around women’s reproductive health, encompassing prenatal care, pregnancy management, childbirth, and the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the female reproductive system.
#5. Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Leading with an Annual Income of $258,900
The role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) stands out as one of the highest-paying non-medical jobs, offering an impressive average annual income of $258,900. Beyond the substantial financial rewards, CEO positions also boast a robust job outlook, projecting a 6% growth in employment over the next decade, exceeding the average growth rate for all occupations.
Interestingly, there isn’t a mandated specific educational path to becoming a CEO. However, a strong academic foundation is almost universally expected. Most CEOs hold a bachelor’s degree in fields such as business administration, economics, management, or finance, providing a broad understanding of business principles. Many also pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or specialized master’s degrees in finance, accounting, or engineering, to further hone their business acumen.
Beyond formal education, CEOs accumulate extensive experience in various leadership roles, often progressing through C-suite positions. This practical experience cultivates essential skills in critical areas such as decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic leadership, all vital for guiding organizations to success.
#6. Psychiatrist: Earning a Median Annual Salary of $256,930
Psychiatrists, specializing in mental health, earn a median annual salary of $256,930 and maintain a stable job outlook of 4%, consistent with the broader physician and surgeon category.
Their educational journey commences with a bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-related field like psychology, biology, or a pre-med track, laying the groundwork for medical studies. This is followed by a four-year medical degree, either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), and another four years of specialized psychiatry residency.
To further enhance their credentials and specialize, many psychiatrists seek certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and may complete fellowship programs in subspecialties such as:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Addiction Psychiatry
Beyond core doctor skills in diagnosis and medication management, psychiatrists require exceptional communication skills and interpersonal skills. They are responsible for the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide spectrum of mental health disorders, requiring empathy, patience, and strong analytical abilities.
#7. Physician (General Practitioner): Averaging $248,640 in Annual Earnings
General practice physicians earn an average annual salary of $248,640 and share the same stable job outlook as surgeons, at 4%. This consistent demand underscores the enduring need for primary healthcare services.
The path to becoming a physician begins with a bachelor’s degree, ideally in a science-related field to prepare for medical school. Subsequent rigorous medical school leads to a medical degree (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), followed by a three-year residency program in family medicine, internal medicine, or general practice, focusing on broad-based medical care.
As general practitioners, physicians serve as the frontline of healthcare, providing primary medical care to patients of all ages. They diagnose and treat a wide array of medical conditions, from common illnesses to chronic diseases, and play a crucial role in referring patients to specialists when more specialized care is necessary, coordinating comprehensive patient care.
#8. Orthodontist: Earning $243,620 on Average Annually
Orthodontists, specialists in dental alignment, earn an average annual salary of $243,620 and enjoy a positive job outlook of 5%. They represent the second highest-paying profession within the dental field.
Aspiring orthodontists typically complete a four-year undergraduate degree, often in pre-dental studies, focusing on foundational sciences. This is followed by earning either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, providing comprehensive dental training. Post-dental school, a two- to three-year residency program in orthodontics is mandatory, specializing in teeth and jaw alignment. While not required, board certification is a valuable credential that many orthodontists pursue to demonstrate advanced expertise.
An orthodontist’s primary role is to examine, diagnose, and treat irregularities of the oral cavity, focusing on correcting teeth and jaw alignment using braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances. Their work improves not only aesthetics but also oral health and function.
#9. Pediatrician: Achieving an Average Annual Income of $205,860
Pediatricians, dedicated to children’s health, earn an average annual income of $205,860. This vital medical specialty maintains a stable job growth prospect of 4%, reflecting the ongoing need for specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents.
The educational requirements for pediatricians mirror other physician specialties, including a bachelor’s degree, commonly in a science-related field, followed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, and a three-year residency specifically in pediatrics.
To further specialize, pediatricians may pursue certification from the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) or the American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics (AOBP) and complete fellowships in subspecialties such as pediatric cardiology, pediatric oncology, or pediatric endocrinology, focusing on specific areas of child health.
Pediatricians are responsible for diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses and injuries in children from infancy through adolescence. They play a critical role in children’s overall health and development, providing preventative care, managing acute and chronic illnesses, and offering guidance to families.
#10. Dentist: Earning a Median Annual Salary of $191,750
Dentists, providing essential oral healthcare, earn a median annual salary of $191,750. The profession is projected to grow at a rate of 5%, matching the job outlook for oral and maxillofacial surgeons and orthodontists, indicating healthy growth in the dental field.
Becoming a dentist requires a bachelor’s degree, often in a pre-dental program, providing a foundation in biological sciences. This is followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and a license to practice dentistry. After obtaining licensure, dentists may choose to complete a residency in a specialized area such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or endodontics, gaining advanced expertise in a specific branch of dentistry.
Dentists are essential healthcare providers who examine, diagnose, and treat diseases and conditions of the teeth and gums. They also play a key role in preventative care, educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices to maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent future dental problems.
#11. Airline and Commercial Pilot: Reaching $171,210 in Average Annual Income
Airline and commercial pilots earn an average annual salary of $171,210 and benefit from a projected job outlook of 5%, driven by growth in air travel and the need for skilled aviators.
While both airline and commercial pilots enjoy similar earning potential and job prospects, their educational paths can differ. Major airlines increasingly prefer pilots with a degree in aviation, aeronautical science, engineering, or a related field, reflecting the complex technical skills required for modern aviation.
However, it’s also possible to become a commercial pilot without a four-year degree. A commercial pilot license (CPL) and instrument rating (IR) are essential certifications, making this profession one of the highest-paying jobs in the USA where a bachelor’s degree is not always mandatory. This pathway emphasizes practical flight training and demonstrated proficiency.
Both airline and commercial pilots share the crucial responsibility of navigating airplanes and other aircraft safely. They are responsible for all aspects of flight safety, from pre-flight checks and planning to in-flight operations and communication, ensuring the safe transportation of passengers and cargo.
#12. Information Systems Manager: Earning $169,510 Annually on Average
Information systems managers, vital in today’s technology-driven world, earn an average annual salary of $169,510. This profession stands out with an exceptional job outlook of 17%, making it one of the most promising careers for future growth and reflecting the increasing reliance of businesses on technology.
A significant advantage of this career path is that it typically requires only a bachelor’s degree, often in fields such as:
- Information systems
- Computer science
- Information technology (IT)
- Management information systems (MIS)
- Business administration
While a bachelor’s degree is often sufficient for entry-level positions, pursuing a master’s degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Master of Science in Information Systems, or a Master of Science in Computer Science, can significantly enhance career advancement and earning potential.
Information systems managers are responsible for the critical task of maintaining an organization’s IT infrastructure and ensuring robust technological security. They oversee computer systems, networks, and data security, playing a vital role in business continuity and operational efficiency.
#13. Lawyer: Achieving a Median Annual Salary of $145,760
Lawyers, essential to the legal system, earn a median annual salary of $145,760 and maintain a steady job outlook of 5%, indicating consistent demand for legal services across various sectors.
The journey to becoming a lawyer starts with a bachelor’s degree, with common undergraduate fields including:
- Business
- Philosophy
- Political science
- Sociology
- History
These disciplines cultivate critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills valuable for legal studies. The next crucial step is obtaining a law school degree—Juris Doctor (JD)—a rigorous three-year program. Following law school, aspiring lawyers must pass the bar exam in their jurisdiction to be licensed to practice law. Furthermore, lawyers are required to engage in continuing legal education courses (CLE) to stay informed about evolving laws and maintain their licenses.
For those seeking advanced specialization or academic careers, optional further education includes a Master of Laws (LL.M.) and Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) or PhD in Law.
The core function of a lawyer involves representing and advising clients on a wide range of legal matters. They provide legal counsel, draft legal documents, conduct negotiations, and represent clients in court, upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law.
Final Thoughts on Jobs That Make the Most Money
The landscape of jobs that make the most money in the USA is diverse, encompassing roles from highly specialized physicians and surgeons to corporate leaders, legal experts, and technology managers, all offering the potential for substantial six-figure annual incomes. While advanced degrees like master’s, PhDs, and MDs are frequently prerequisites for many of these high-earning professions, opportunities such as commercial pilot demonstrate that alternative pathways to financial success exist through specialized training and certifications.
Ultimately, each of these jobs that make the most money demands a unique blend of skills, acquired through rigorous education, dedicated practice, and hands-on experience. Choosing the right career path involves aligning your interests and aptitudes with the demands of these high-paying professions, setting the stage for both financial prosperity and professional fulfillment.
