When navigating career choices, whether you’re a student charting your future, a professional considering a change, or simply curious about income potential, one question often rises to the top: “What Job Gets The Most Money?”
While job satisfaction and work-life balance are crucial, understanding earning potential is undeniably a significant factor for many. The good news is that high-paying jobs aren’t confined to a single industry. Opportunities for lucrative careers span across various sectors in the US job market.
To demonstrate this, we’ve compiled an updated list for 2024, revealing the top 10 highest-paying jobs in the USA. Explore these career paths to see where your ambitions and earning aspirations might align.
Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the USA (Salaries Included)
1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) holds the paramount leadership position within a company. They are the driving force behind an organization’s success, responsible for setting the strategic direction and ensuring growth.
CEOs are tasked with making pivotal corporate and financial decisions, crafting and implementing overarching business strategies, and overseeing all operational aspects. They also act as the primary link between the company’s internal teams and external stakeholders, including the board of directors, investors, and the public.
Educational Requirements
For aspiring CEOs, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) is often considered the gold standard in education, regardless of the industry. Fortunately, numerous reputable online MBA programs offer flexible learning options to fit your schedule.
Beyond formal education, substantial relevant work experience is essential. CEOs typically climb the corporate ladder, demonstrating leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and proven management skills throughout their careers. Professional certifications in specific industries can further bolster a CEO’s credentials.
Job Outlook
The demand for top executives, including CEOs, is projected to grow by 3%, mirroring the average growth rate for all occupations. This steady demand translates to approximately 311,600 job openings annually across the US until 2032.
Salary Information
Compensation for CEOs is substantial, reflecting their critical role and responsibilities. The median annual wage for a Chief Executive Officer in the US is approximately USD 329,400.
It’s important to note that CEO salaries can fluctuate based on several factors, including the industry, the size and revenue of the company, geographic location, and the CEO’s individual experience and qualifications. Larger corporations and high-growth sectors often offer more lucrative compensation packages.
2. Physician/Doctor
Physicians consistently rank among the highest-paying medical and healthcare jobs and are a cornerstone of the top-earning professions in the USA. The medical field offers a variety of specializations, with some commanding particularly high salaries. Here are a few of the top-paying physician specialties:
- Anesthesiologists: These specialists are experts in administering anesthesia for surgeries, managing pain, and providing critical care to patients in post-operative settings. Their expertise is vital for patient safety and comfort during and after medical procedures.
- General Internal Medicine Doctors (Internists): Internists focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of complex and chronic illnesses affecting adults. They handle a broad spectrum of conditions, from diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders to infectious diseases and age-related health concerns.
- Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs): OB/GYNs specialize in women’s reproductive health, encompassing conception, pregnancy, childbirth, and the management of female reproductive system disorders and sexual health issues.
- Emergency Medicine Physicians: These doctors are on the front lines of healthcare, specializing in the immediate diagnosis and treatment of patients with urgent and critical medical conditions in emergency rooms and trauma centers.
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming a physician is rigorous and lengthy, typically requiring around 12 years of post-secondary education and training. This includes a four-year bachelor’s degree (often in a science-related field like biology or chemistry), followed by four years of medical school, and then a residency period of three to seven years depending on the chosen specialization.
Aspiring doctors must also pass several crucial examinations, including the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to enter medical school and the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) parts 1 and 2 to become licensed physicians.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for physicians remains strong, although projected growth rates can vary slightly depending on the specific medical specialty. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects growth for medical specialties ranging from 1% to 7%, indicating continued demand for these essential healthcare professionals.
Salary Information
Physician salaries are highly competitive, reflecting the extensive education, training, and critical responsibilities associated with these roles. Earnings vary based on specialization, experience, location, and practice setting. Here are the average annual salaries for some of the highest-paying physician specialties:
| Specialty | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Anesthesiologist | $267,020 – $403,000+ |
| General Internal Medicine | $209,000 – $284,000+ |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist | $239,000 – $326,000+ |
| Emergency Medicine Physician | $257,000 – $350,000+ |
3. Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are specialized medical doctors focusing on mental health. They are experts in the diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
Distinguishing them from psychologists, psychiatrists hold medical degrees (MD or DO) and are licensed to prescribe medications and utilize a range of therapeutic interventions, including psychotherapy, medication management, and other medical treatments for mental health conditions.
Educational Requirements
Becoming a psychiatrist is a significant commitment, requiring approximately 12 years of higher education and specialized training. The journey typically involves a four-year bachelor’s degree, often in psychology or a related field, followed by four years of medical school. After medical school, aspiring psychiatrists must complete a three to four-year residency program in psychiatry.
Following residency, psychiatrists are eligible to pursue board certification, demonstrating their expertise and qualifications in the field. Licensure is also mandatory to practice psychiatry, ensuring practitioners meet the required professional standards.
Job Outlook
The demand for psychiatrists is notably strong, with a projected job growth of 7%, the highest among physician specialties. This robust growth reflects an increasing awareness of mental health and the need for specialized care. The projected growth translates to roughly 30,500 annual job openings for psychiatrists until 2032.
Salary Information
Psychiatrists are well-compensated for their crucial role in healthcare. According to Glassdoor data, the average annual salary for psychiatrists in the US is around USD 234,200. In addition to their base salary, psychiatrists may also receive supplemental income, averaging around USD 21,400 annually, through avenues like cash bonuses, incentives, and profit-sharing arrangements.
4. Airline Pilot
Airline pilots are highly skilled aviators responsible for operating and navigating aircraft, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of passengers and cargo. They command complex machinery and make critical decisions to maintain flight safety and passenger comfort.
Pilots work collaboratively within a flight team, which includes copilots, flight engineers, flight attendants, and ground crew, to manage all aspects of a flight, from pre-flight checks to in-flight navigation and landing procedures.
Educational Requirements
A career as an airline pilot typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in a field like aviation, engineering, business, or a related discipline. Alongside academic education, aspiring pilots must complete flight training at a certified flight school to earn a private pilot certificate.
Further certifications are essential, including an instrument rating, which allows pilots to fly in varying weather conditions, and accumulating the necessary flight hours to qualify for the Commercial Pilot Airline Exam (CAX). Passing the CAX leads to a commercial pilot license, a prerequisite for flying for commercial airlines.
Job Outlook
The aviation industry is experiencing steady growth, with the demand for airline pilots projected to increase by 4%, which is considered an average growth rate across all occupations.
While the growth rate is moderate compared to some other high-paying professions, the airline pilot sector is expected to generate approximately 16,800 job openings annually until 2032, driven by industry expansion and the need to replace retiring pilots.
Salary Information
Airline pilots earn substantial salaries, commensurate with their training, responsibilities, and the demanding nature of their profession. The median annual wage for airline pilots is around USD 215,600.
In addition to their base salaries, many airline pilots receive significant cash bonuses, which can average around USD 33,100 per year, depending on the airline, years of service, and specific pay structures.
5. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialized dentist and surgeon who performs surgical procedures on the mouth, jaw, face, head, and neck. Their expertise spans both medical and dental fields, addressing functional and aesthetic concerns.
They treat a wide range of conditions, including impacted wisdom teeth, perform reconstructive surgery after trauma or cancer, place dental implants, correct jaw misalignments, manage head and neck cancers, and treat injuries resulting from accidents. They are also qualified to administer anesthesia and manage post-operative pain control.
Educational Requirements
The pathway to becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon begins with a strong foundation in dentistry. This involves completing a bachelor’s degree, excelling in the Dental Admission Test (DAT), earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school, and obtaining a dental license.
Beyond dental school, extensive surgical training is required, including a four to six-year surgical residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and often a two-year medical program, culminating in a medical degree (MD). Board certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a final step, validating their expertise.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) categorizes oral and maxillofacial surgeons under the broader dentist category. The demand for dentists, including specialists like oral surgeons, is projected to grow by 4% through 2032, indicating stable demand for these specialized surgical professionals.
Salary Information
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are among the highest-paid professionals in both dentistry and healthcare. The median annual wage for oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the US is approximately USD 190,500. In addition to their base salary, they may also receive supplementary pay, averaging around USD 18,500 per year, through cash bonuses and other incentives.
6. Orthodontist
Orthodontists are dental specialists focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating irregularities of the teeth and jaws. They enhance both the function and aesthetics of a patient’s smile by correcting misalignments.
While general dentists address overall dental health, orthodontists possess specialized training in managing and fitting various dental appliances, including braces, retainers, and aligners. They treat conditions like crooked teeth, crowded teeth, jaw misalignment, gaps between teeth, and bite problems.
Educational Requirements
The journey to becoming an orthodontist is lengthy and specialized, typically requiring 10 to 11 years of education and training beyond high school. This includes a four-year bachelor’s degree, often in biology, chemistry, or a related science. This is followed by four years of dental school to earn a DDS or DMD degree and a two to three-year residency program specifically in orthodontics.
In addition to these degrees, aspiring orthodontists must pass several rigorous examinations, including the Dental Admission Test (DAT) for dental school admission and the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) to become licensed.
Job Outlook
The BLS projects that overall employment for dentists, including orthodontists, will increase by 4%, aligning with the average growth rate for all occupations. This steady growth indicates continued demand for orthodontic services, driven by both functional and cosmetic dental needs. The projected growth translates to approximately 5,100 job openings for dentists and orthodontists annually until 2032.
Salary Information
Orthodontists are among the top earners in the dental profession, reflecting their specialized skills and extensive training. The median annual wage for orthodontists is around USD 204,800, with potential for additional income averaging around USD 26,500 per year through bonuses and profit sharing.
7. Lawyer
Lawyers are highly trained and licensed legal professionals who provide expert legal representation and counsel to clients. They play a critical role in upholding the legal system by advocating for their clients’ rights and ensuring laws are applied fairly and justly.
Lawyers specialize in diverse areas of law, such as corporate law, criminal defense, family law, environmental law, and intellectual property law, among many others. They advise clients, conduct legal research, prepare legal documents, and represent clients in negotiations and court proceedings.
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming a lawyer requires substantial academic preparation. A bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for law school, and while no specific major is mandated, common undergraduate fields include English, economics, political science, and philosophy, which develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills essential for legal studies.
After earning a bachelor’s degree, prospective lawyers must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to qualify for law school. Law school is a three-year full-time program culminating in a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. The final step is passing the bar examination in the jurisdiction where they intend to practice law to obtain licensure.
Job Outlook
The legal profession is projected to experience solid growth. The BLS anticipates an 8% growth rate for lawyers, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to generate approximately 39,100 job openings annually until 2032, driven by the increasing complexity of laws and regulations and the ongoing need for legal services across various sectors.
Salary Information
Lawyers’ earning potential is significant, reflecting their specialized expertise and the demands of their profession. In the US, lawyers can earn up to USD 165,700 annually. In addition to base salaries, lawyers may also receive extra compensation, estimated at around USD 20,200 per year, through profit sharing, bonuses, and incentives, particularly in larger law firms or specialized practices.
8. Architectural and Engineering Manager
Architectural and engineering managers are leadership professionals who oversee and coordinate architectural design and engineering projects, ensuring they are completed efficiently, safely, and to the required standards. They blend technical knowledge with management skills.
These managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating activities in architectural and engineering firms or within companies that have in-house architectural or engineering departments. They manage project budgets, timelines, and resources, and they ensure compliance with regulations and codes. Beyond project management, they often handle staff development and client relations.
Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in architecture or engineering is the foundational requirement for entering this management field. To advance into management roles, years of practical experience in architecture or engineering are crucial. Many architectural and engineering managers also pursue a master’s degree to enhance their management and business acumen. Common master’s degrees include a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Engineering Management, or Technology Management. This advanced education can be pursued before or while working in a management role, depending on employer preferences and career progression strategies.
Job Outlook
The demand for architectural and engineering managers is projected to grow by 4% through 2032. While the growth rate is moderate, the large size of the construction and infrastructure sectors ensures a consistent need for these management professionals. The industry is expected to generate approximately 13,600 job openings annually for architectural and engineering managers over the next few years.
Salary Information
Architectural and engineering managers are well-compensated for their blend of technical expertise and management responsibilities. The average annual salary for architectural and engineering managers is around USD 140,400. Furthermore, they may receive significant additional pay, averaging around USD 47,400 per year, through bonuses, profit sharing, and other performance-based incentives, particularly in larger firms or for overseeing major projects.
9. Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and Information Systems Managers, often called IT Managers or IT Directors, are crucial leaders in today’s technology-driven organizations. They are responsible for directing and coordinating all computer-related activities within a company. They manage the IT department and ensure the organization’s technology infrastructure is efficient, secure, and aligned with business goals.
Their responsibilities are broad, including planning and directing the installation and maintenance of computer hardware, software, and networks. They also oversee data security, manage IT budgets, recruit, train, and supervise IT staff, conduct performance reviews, manage IT projects, and ensure effective communication between the IT department and other parts of the organization.
Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Systems Management, or a closely related field is typically required to become a Computer and Information Systems Manager. In addition to formal education, practical experience is highly valued. Many IT managers start with tech support roles or gain IT work experience to build a solid technical foundation.
Pursuing a master’s degree, particularly an MBA, can significantly enhance career advancement prospects in IT management. An MBA adds business administration and strategic management skills, making candidates more competitive for leadership roles.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for Computer and Information Systems Managers is exceptionally strong, reflecting the central role of technology in modern business. The BLS projects a substantial 18% growth rate for this profession over the next decade, which is significantly faster than the average for all occupations. This rapid growth is expected to result in approximately 46,900 annual job openings in the field for the foreseeable future.
Salary Information
Computer and Information Systems Managers are well-compensated for their critical role in maintaining and advancing organizational technology. The median annual wage for these managers is around USD 140,200. They may also receive additional compensation, averaging around USD 11,600 per year, through cash bonuses, profit sharing, and other performance-related incentives.
10. Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse Anesthetists are the highest-paid type of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). They are specialized healthcare professionals who administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical, diagnostic, therapeutic, or obstetrical procedures. Their role is vital in ensuring patient safety and comfort during medical interventions.
Before procedures, nurse anesthetists evaluate patients’ medical histories, discuss anesthesia options, and prepare patients for surgery-related diagnostics and exams. During procedures, they administer and manage anesthesia, closely monitor patients’ vital signs, and adjust anesthesia levels as needed. Post-surgery, they oversee patients’ recovery from anesthesia and manage post-operative pain.
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming a nurse anesthetist is rigorous and requires extensive nursing and specialized training. It begins with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Following a BSN, nurses must gain licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) by passing the NCLEX-RN examination.
Relevant critical care nursing experience, typically at least one year and often three or more years in an intensive care unit (ICU) or similar setting, is a prerequisite for entry into nurse anesthesia programs. These programs are master’s-level (MSN) or doctoral-level (DNP) and last two to three years. The final step is certification by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
Job Outlook
The job outlook for nurse anesthetists and other advanced practice registered nurses is exceptionally bright. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an outstanding 38% growth rate for APRNs, including nurse anesthetists, in the coming years. This rapid growth is significantly faster than the average for all occupations and translates to approximately 29,200 job openings annually until 2032, driven by healthcare expansion and an increasing demand for cost-effective anesthesia services.
Salary Information
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are highly compensated for their advanced skills and critical role in healthcare. The average annual salary for a CRNA is around USD 126,900. Professionals in this field may also receive additional pay, averaging around USD 7,200 per year, through cash bonuses and other incentives.
Conclusion
As you can see, high-paying job opportunities are diverse and exist across numerous sectors within the US economy. While specific industries like healthcare and technology dominate the top of the earnings list, leadership and management roles consistently command high salaries across all sectors.
Notably, many of these highest-earning positions, regardless of the specific field, often require advanced education, such as master’s degrees like an MBA or specialized professional degrees. Developing strong leadership and management skills is a common thread for individuals seeking top-tier compensation.
For those looking to enhance their career prospects and earning potential, pursuing advanced education, such as an online BBA or MBA program from institutions like Nexford University, can provide a significant advantage in today’s competitive job market. These programs equip professionals with the strategic thinking, management expertise, and business acumen needed to excel in high-demand, high-paying roles.
FAQs
What is the highest-paying job in the USA in 2024?
Currently, the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) stands as the highest-paying job in the United States. CEOs command an average annual salary of approximately USD 329,500. However, it’s important to note that CEO compensation can vary, with earnings potentially ranging from USD 276,500 to upwards of USD 396,000, depending on company size, industry, and other factors.
Which US job sectors are projected for the highest growth, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data indicates that the healthcare and computer and information technology sectors are projected to experience the most rapid growth among high-paying job categories. Specifically, roles like Nurse Anesthetists are expected to see a remarkable 38% growth, while Computer and Information Systems Manager positions are projected to increase by 18%.
What represents the best career path in the USA for 2024?
Considering factors such as rapid growth, job stability, and above-average compensation, careers within the healthcare, IT, and cybersecurity industries are often cited as representing some of the most promising career paths in the US for 2024. These sectors are experiencing significant expansion and offer numerous opportunities for skilled professionals.
What key skills or expertise are essential for securing high-paying jobs in the US?
While high-paying jobs span various industries and require specific technical skills depending on the field, leadership and management skills are universally critical for top-earning positions. Most of the highest-paying jobs in the U.S. are in managerial or supervisory roles. Developing strong leadership abilities, strategic thinking, and effective management techniques is crucial for career advancement and maximizing earning potential.
To gain deeper insights into essential industry-specific skills, consider downloading resources like this free report.
What educational qualifications are typically required for high-paying US jobs?
For the majority of high-paying jobs in the US, a master’s degree is often the minimum educational requirement. In addition to advanced degrees, substantial relevant work experience is generally necessary to secure these positions. Certain professions, particularly in healthcare, such as surgeons, physicians, and orthodontists, also necessitate extensive specialized training, ranging from three to nine years beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Why is pursuing a BBA or MBA degree beneficial for career advancement in the USA?
Earning a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) or Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in the USA offers numerous advantages for career growth and earning potential:
- Enhanced Earning Potential: Graduates with BBA/MBA degrees often command higher salaries and have faster career progression.
- Competitive Advantage: These degrees provide a competitive edge in the job market, making candidates more attractive to employers.
- Improved Resume Marketability: A BBA/MBA significantly enhances a resume, showcasing advanced business knowledge and skills.
- Increased Promotion and Managerial Opportunities: These degrees are often prerequisites or strongly preferred for managerial and leadership roles.
- Career Versatility: Business degrees open doors to diverse industries and roles, offering greater career flexibility.
- Diversified Skillset: BBA/MBA programs develop a broad range of skills in areas like finance, marketing, strategy, and operations.
- Strong Networking and Communication Skills: Business programs emphasize networking and communication skills crucial for success in virtually any industry.
