When navigating career choices, whether you’re a student charting your future, a professional considering a career change, or simply curious about earning potential, one question frequently surfaces: “What Job Pays The Most Money?” It’s a valid and important consideration. While job satisfaction and personal fulfillment are crucial, understanding salary potential is often a key factor in career decisions.
Fortunately, pursuing a lucrative career doesn’t necessitate abandoning your passions. High-paying jobs in the US span across diverse sectors, offering opportunities for various interests and skill sets. To illustrate this, we’ve compiled an updated list of the top 10 highest-paying jobs in America for 2024, demonstrating that financial success is achievable in numerous fields.
Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the USA (Including Salaries)
1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) holds the paramount leadership position within a company, steering the organization towards its strategic goals and overall success. Their multifaceted role encompasses setting the company’s vision, making critical corporate and financial decisions, establishing comprehensive business strategies, and overseeing all operational facets. Beyond internal management, the CEO acts as the primary liaison, effectively communicating the company’s direction and performance to the board of directors, key stakeholders, and the public. This demanding role requires a unique blend of strategic thinking, decisive leadership, and exceptional communication skills to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape.
Educational Requirements
Aspiring CEOs typically need a strong educational foundation in business. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is often considered a crucial credential, regardless of the specific industry. The accessibility of online MBA programs has made it more convenient than ever to gain this advanced qualification while continuing to work and build experience. Beyond formal education, extensive relevant work experience in progressively responsible leadership roles and professional certifications demonstrating expertise in specific areas of management are highly valued. These combined qualifications showcase a CEO candidate’s comprehensive understanding of business principles and their proven ability to lead effectively.
Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady demand for top executives, including CEOs, with an anticipated growth rate of 3%, aligning with the average growth rate for all occupations. This consistent demand translates to approximately 311,600 job openings annually, indicating a stable and ongoing need for qualified individuals in top executive roles.
Salary Information
CEO compensation reflects the significant responsibilities and impact of the role. Salary.com data indicates an annual median wage of approximately USD 329,400 for Chief Executive Officers. It’s important to note that CEO salaries can fluctuate based on several factors. These include the industry sector, the size and complexity of the company, the CEO’s educational background, and specific professional certifications held. Performance-based bonuses and stock options can also significantly influence overall CEO compensation, further tying their earnings to the company’s success and growth.
2. Physician/Doctor
Physicians consistently rank among the highest-paid professionals in the US, particularly within specialized medical and healthcare fields. It’s no surprise they feature prominently on lists of top-earning jobs for 2024. The medical profession encompasses a wide array of specialties, each demanding extensive training and expertise. Within this diverse field, certain specialties command the highest salaries due to factors like the complexity of care, demand for services, and length of training. Here are some of the top-paying medical specialties:
- Anesthesiologists: These specialists are critical to modern surgery, expertly administering anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety during procedures. Their expertise extends beyond the operating room to pain management and critical care for patients recovering from surgery.
- General Internal Medicine Doctors (Internists): Internists are diagnosticians and caregivers for adults, focusing on the intricate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of complex, chronic, and multi-system diseases. They manage conditions such as diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, infectious diseases, and age-related health concerns, requiring a broad and deep understanding of the human body.
- Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs): OB/GYNs specialize in women’s health, managing all aspects of conception, pregnancy, and childbirth. Their expertise also covers the full spectrum of female reproductive and sexual health issues, providing essential care throughout a woman’s life.
- Emergency Medicine Physicians: These physicians are on the front lines of healthcare, providing immediate diagnosis and treatment to patients with urgent and often life-threatening medical conditions. Working in fast-paced and high-pressure environments, they require rapid decision-making skills and a broad knowledge of medical procedures.
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming a physician is rigorous and lengthy, typically requiring around 12 years of dedicated education and training. This journey begins with a four-year undergraduate degree, ideally in a science-related field like biology or chemistry, providing a strong foundation in scientific principles. This is followed by four demanding years of medical school, where students gain in-depth medical knowledge and clinical skills. After medical school, aspiring physicians must complete a residency, a specialized training period lasting four to five years, depending on their chosen specialty. Furthermore, rigorous examinations are mandatory, including the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for medical school entry and the multi-part United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to obtain licensure and practice medicine.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for physicians is generally positive, though projected growth rates can vary depending on the specific medical specialty. Data from the BLS indicates expected growth rates for medical specialties ranging from 1% to 7%. Factors influencing these variations include evolving healthcare needs, technological advancements in medicine, and demographic shifts within the population.
Salary Information
Physician earnings are highly variable and influenced by specialization, geographic location, years of experience, and practice setting (e.g., private practice vs. hospital employment). While salaries differ significantly across specialties, the top-paying fields often include those listed above – anesthesiology, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, and emergency medicine.
3. Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are specialized medical doctors focusing on the intricate realm of mental health. Their expertise lies in the diagnosis, treatment, comprehensive management, and proactive prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. A key distinction between psychiatrists and psychologists is their medical training; psychiatrists, as medical doctors, possess the authority to prescribe medications and other medical interventions as part of a holistic treatment approach. This medical background allows them to address both the psychological and physiological aspects of mental health conditions.
Educational Requirements
Becoming a psychiatrist is an extensive educational commitment, typically spanning around 12 years. The journey commences with a four-year bachelor’s degree, often in psychology or a related field to build foundational knowledge of human behavior. This is followed by four years of medical school, providing a broad medical education. Subsequently, a three-year psychiatric residency program is required, offering specialized training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. Upon completion of residency, psychiatrists are eligible to pursue board certification, a voluntary process demonstrating advanced expertise in the field and leading to licensure as a qualified psychiatrist.
Job Outlook
The demand for psychiatric services is on the rise, reflecting an increasing awareness of mental health and a growing need for specialized care. The BLS projects a robust job growth rate of 7% for psychiatrists, the highest among physician specialties. This significant growth translates to approximately 30,500 annual job openings, highlighting the expanding opportunities and critical need for mental health professionals in the coming years.
Salary Information
Psychiatrists are well-compensated for their specialized skills and the critical role they play in healthcare. Data from Glassdoor indicates an average annual salary of USD 234,200 for psychiatrists in the US. In addition to their base salary, psychiatrists may also receive supplemental income, estimated at around USD 21,400 per year, through avenues such as cash bonuses, performance-based incentives, and profit sharing arrangements, further enhancing their overall earning potential.
4. Airline Pilot
Airline pilots are highly skilled aviation professionals responsible for the safe and efficient operation of aircraft, transporting passengers and cargo across vast distances. These expert aviators meticulously navigate complex flight paths and manage sophisticated aircraft systems. Ensuring flight safety and passenger comfort is paramount; pilots work in close coordination with a dedicated flight team, including co-pilots, flight engineers, flight attendants, and ground crew personnel. This collaborative effort is essential for seamless and secure air travel.
Educational Requirements
A career as an airline pilot typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as aviation, engineering, business, or transportation, providing a strong academic foundation. Crucially, aspiring pilots must complete rigorous flight training at a certified flight training school to earn a private pilot certificate, marking the first step in practical flight skills. Further certifications are essential, including obtaining an instrument rating to fly in various 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 fundamental requirement for professional airline piloting.
Job Outlook
The aviation industry is experiencing steady growth, driving demand for qualified airline pilots. The BLS projects a 4% increase in the need for airline pilots, aligning with the average growth rate across all occupations. While the growth rate is moderate compared to some other high-paying professions, the sector is expected to generate approximately 16,800 job openings annually, indicating consistent opportunities for aspiring pilots.
Salary Information
Airline pilots are well-compensated for their demanding roles and responsibilities. The annual median wage for airline pilots is approximately USD 215,600. Compensation structures in the airline industry often include additional financial incentives. Many pilots receive cash bonuses, which can average around USD 33,100 per year, depending on the airline, years of service, and specific pay agreements.
5. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon holds a unique dual expertise in both medicine and dentistry. These highly specialized surgeons perform intricate surgical procedures on the mouth, jaw, head, neck, and face. Their interventions address a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from correcting functional problems to performing cosmetic enhancements. Common medical conditions treated by oral and maxillofacial surgeons include impacted wisdom teeth, the need for oral reconstructive surgery following trauma or disease, dental implant placement, correction of misaligned jaws, treatment of head and neck cancers, and managing injuries resulting from accidents and traumas. Beyond surgical skills, they are also responsible for administering anesthesia and prescribing pain management strategies for their patients, ensuring comprehensive care.
Educational Requirements
The pathway to becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is rooted in dentistry. Aspiring surgeons must first complete an undergraduate program, followed by successfully passing the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Next, they must earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school and obtain a dental license to practice. Building upon this dental foundation, further specialized surgical training is essential. This includes a comprehensive four-year surgery residency program and an additional two-year medical program, providing in-depth medical and surgical knowledge. Finally, board certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a recognized credential, signifying advanced competency in the specialty.
Job Outlook
The BLS categorizes oral and maxillofacial surgeons within the broader dentist category. Therefore, the projected job market growth for oral and maxillofacial surgeons aligns with that of dentists overall, estimated at 4% through 2032. This indicates a stable and consistent demand for these specialized surgical professionals within the healthcare landscape.
Salary Information
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are among the highest-earning professionals in dentistry and medicine. The annual median wage for oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the US is approximately USD 190,500. In addition to their base salary, they may also receive supplemental income, averaging around USD 18,500 annually, through performance bonuses and other incentives, reflecting their specialized expertise and demanding skillset.
6. Orthodontist
Orthodontists are dental specialists focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and comprehensive treatment of irregularities involving the teeth and jaw alignment. While they share a dental background with general dentists, orthodontists possess highly specialized training in managing and skillfully installing various dental appliances. These include braces, retainers, and bands, used to correct a range of dental and jaw misalignments. Orthodontists address common dental issues such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, jaw misalignment, teeth with excessive gaps, and various bite problems, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of a patient’s smile and oral health.
Educational Requirements
The journey to becoming a certified orthodontist is lengthy and academically demanding, typically taking 10 to 11 years of post-secondary education and training. It begins with a four-year undergraduate degree, ideally with a strong science focus in biology and chemistry, providing a solid foundation. This is followed by four years of rigorous dental school. Subsequently, a two to three-year orthodontics residency program is mandatory, offering specialized training in orthodontic techniques and treatments. In addition to these degrees, aspiring orthodontists must successfully pass two key examinations: the Dental Admission Test (DAT) for dental school entry and the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) for licensure.
Job Outlook
The BLS projects a stable job market for dentists, including orthodontists, with an anticipated growth rate of 4%, on par with the average growth rate for all occupations. This steady growth translates to approximately 5,100 job openings annually, indicating consistent opportunities for qualified orthodontists within the dental profession.
Salary Information
Orthodontists are highly compensated for their specialized expertise in dentistry. The annual median wage for orthodontists is approximately USD 204,800. Furthermore, they often receive additional income, averaging around USD 26,500 per year, through bonuses and other performance-based incentives, reflecting their advanced skills and the value of their specialized services.
7. Lawyer
Lawyers are highly trained and licensed legal professionals who provide critical legal representation and expert advice to a diverse clientele. They play a fundamental role in upholding the legal system, advocating for their clients’ rights and ensuring the fair and just application of laws. Lawyers navigate complex legal frameworks, representing individuals, businesses, and organizations in various legal matters, from litigation and negotiation to contract drafting and legal counsel.
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming a lawyer begins with a bachelor’s degree. While a specific major is not mandated, popular pre-law majors include English, economics, political science, and philosophy, as these disciplines cultivate critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and strong communication skills essential for legal studies. Following undergraduate studies, aspiring lawyers must take and achieve a competitive score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to qualify for law school admission. Law school culminates in a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, the primary legal qualification. The final crucial step is to pass the bar examination, a rigorous test of legal knowledge and competency, required for licensure to practice law. Bar exam requirements vary by state, adding a jurisdictional element to legal qualification.
Job Outlook
The legal profession is projected to experience steady growth, indicating continued demand for legal services. The BLS anticipates an 8% growth rate in the legal sector, translating to approximately 39,100 job openings annually. This growth reflects the ongoing need for legal expertise across various sectors and industries.
Salary Information
Lawyers in the US command substantial earning potential. Salaries can reach as high as USD 165,700 annually, with variations based on experience, specialization, location, and type of legal practice. In addition to base salaries, lawyers may also receive supplemental income, averaging around USD 20,200 per year, through profit sharing arrangements, performance-based bonuses, and other incentives, enhancing their overall compensation.
8. Architectural and Engineering Manager
Architectural and engineering managers assume leadership roles in overseeing complex renovation and construction projects, ensuring projects are completed efficiently, on schedule, and within budget. These managers possess a strong blend of technical expertise and managerial acumen. Similar to project managers, they must have in-depth technical knowledge of architectural and engineering principles, enabling them to effectively manage project plans, materials procurement, and construction methodologies. However, architectural and engineering managers often have a broader scope of responsibility than project managers, encompassing staff development, talent management, and cultivating strong client relationships, in addition to project oversight.
Educational Requirements
Entry into architectural and engineering management typically requires a bachelor’s degree in either architecture or a specific engineering discipline, providing the foundational technical knowledge. Advancement to management roles usually necessitates significant industry experience and often a master’s degree. Popular advanced degrees for this career path include a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Master’s in Engineering Management, or a Master’s in Technology Management, enhancing managerial and leadership skills. Depending on company policies and career progression pathways, a master’s degree may be pursued before assuming a management role or while working as a manager to further professional development.
Job Outlook
The demand for architectural and engineering managers is projected to grow steadily in line with construction and infrastructure development. The BLS forecasts a 4% increase in employment for these managers through 2032. While the growth rate is moderate, the industry is expected to generate approximately 13,600 job openings annually, indicating consistent opportunities in this management field.
Salary Information
Architectural and engineering managers are well-compensated for their leadership and technical expertise. The annual average salary for these managers is approximately USD 140,400. Compensation packages often include additional benefits and incentives. Depending on company pay structures, architectural and engineering managers may also earn supplemental income, averaging around USD 47,400 per year, reflecting performance, project success, and company profitability.
9. Computer and Information Systems Manager
A Computer and Information Systems Manager (often referred to as an IT Manager or IT Director) leads the crucial IT department within an organization. This leadership role involves overseeing the team responsible for the maintenance, seamless installation, and robust protection of a company’s essential IT infrastructure. This infrastructure includes hardware systems, software applications, and critical databases. Managerial responsibilities are diverse, encompassing budget management for IT operations, strategic staff recruitment and ongoing training, performance evaluations of IT staff, project scheduling and resource allocation, and meticulous inventory management of IT assets. Furthermore, the IT manager serves as a vital communication bridge between the IT department and upper management, ensuring alignment of IT strategy with overall business goals.
Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a closely related field, such as Information Technology or Computer Systems Management, is typically the foundational educational requirement for this career path. Practical experience is highly valued; aspiring IT managers often need to gain tech support internship experience or relevant IT work experience to qualify for entry-level positions and build a career trajectory. Pursuing a master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) can significantly enhance career advancement prospects, increasing the likelihood of promotion to managerial positions by developing business acumen and leadership skills.
Job Outlook
The technology sector is experiencing rapid expansion, driving substantial demand for IT professionals and managers. The BLS projects exceptional job growth in this field, anticipating an 18% increase in demand for computer and information systems managers over the coming decade. This robust growth is expected to generate approximately 46,900 job openings annually, highlighting the significant career opportunities in IT management.
Salary Information
Computer and Information Systems Managers are well-compensated for their critical role in managing an organization’s technology infrastructure. The annual median wage for these managers is approximately USD 140,200. In addition to base salaries, they may also receive supplementary income, averaging around USD 11,600 per year, through cash bonuses, profit sharing plans, and other performance-related incentives common in the technology industry.
10. Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse anesthetists represent the highest-paid category among Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), reflecting their specialized skills and critical role in healthcare. These highly trained nurses are responsible for administering anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical, diagnostic, or obstetrical procedures. Their responsibilities span the entire patient care continuum, encompassing pre-operative assessment, intra-operative anesthesia administration and monitoring, and post-operative recovery care. Before a procedure, nurse anesthetists meticulously review a patient’s medical history, clearly explain potential anesthesia-related risks, and prepare patients for surgery-related diagnostics and examinations. During procedures, they expertly administer and precisely adjust anesthesia or pain management medications, while continuously monitoring vital signs. Post-surgery, they play a crucial role in managing a patient’s safe and comfortable emergence and recovery from anesthesia.
Educational Requirements
A career as a nurse anesthetist begins with a strong foundation in nursing. Aspiring anesthetists must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). Following graduation, state licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) is mandatory, achieved by passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Substantial clinical experience is essential; nurse anesthetist programs typically require at least three years of relevant work experience in critical care nursing settings. Advanced education is then pursued, requiring either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a nurse anesthesia specialization or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The final step to certification is passing the rigorous certification examination administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA), demonstrating specialized knowledge and competency in nurse anesthesia practice.
Job Outlook
The field of advanced practice nursing is experiencing exceptional growth, driven by increased demand for healthcare services and an expanding scope of practice for APRNs. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects remarkable employment growth for advanced practice registered nurses, including nurse anesthetists, with an anticipated increase of 38% in the coming years. This significant growth translates to approximately 29,200 job openings annually, highlighting the robust career opportunities and high demand for nurse anesthetists.
Salary Information
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are among the highest-paid nursing professionals. The average annual salary for a CRNA is approximately USD 126,900. Compensation packages often include additional financial incentives. Professionals in this field may also receive supplemental pay, averaging around USD 7,200 per year, through cash bonuses and other performance-based incentives, recognizing their advanced skills and critical contributions to patient care.
Conclusion
As our list demonstrates, high-paying jobs are available across a spectrum of industries and are not confined to a single sector. Notably, leadership and management roles consistently appear among the highest-earning positions, regardless of the specific industry. These roles, as evidenced in our top 10, often require advanced education, such as a BBA or MBA degree, to develop the strategic thinking, decision-making, and leadership skills necessary for success at the highest levels.
For individuals seeking to enhance their career prospects and earning potential, Nexford University offers accessible online BBA and MBA programs. These programs are designed to equip professionals with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s competitive job market, all from the convenience of their own homes and schedules.
FAQs
What is the highest-paying job in the USA in 2024?
The position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) currently holds the title of the highest-paying job in America. CEOs command a substantial average annual salary of approximately USD 329,500. Salary ranges for CEOs can vary, typically spanning from around USD 276,500 to upwards of USD 396,000, depending on company size, industry, and performance factors.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which US jobs are projected to have the highest level of growth among high-paying occupations?
The BLS projects that the healthcare and computer and information technology sectors will experience the most rapid growth among high-paying jobs. Specifically, roles such as nurse anesthetists are projected to grow by an impressive 38%, while demand for computer and information systems managers is expected to increase by 18%. These projections highlight the dynamic growth and significant opportunities within these key industries.
What is considered a promising career path in the USA for 2024?
Considering factors such as rapid growth potential, strong job stability, and above-average compensation, the healthcare, IT, and cybersecurity industries emerge as particularly promising career paths in the US for 2024. These sectors are experiencing significant expansion and offer diverse and rewarding job opportunities for skilled professionals.
What key skills or expertise are essential for securing high-paying jobs in the US?
A common thread among the highest-paying jobs in the US is the prevalence of managerial and supervisory responsibilities. While specific technical skills vary across industries, leadership and management expertise consistently rank as critical competencies across all high-paying sectors. Developing strong leadership, strategic thinking, and team management skills is highly beneficial for aspiring high-earners.
To explore industry-specific core competencies and skill development, Download Our Free Report Here.
What qualifications are typically required for high-paying jobs in the US?
A master’s degree is frequently a minimum educational requirement for many high-paying jobs in the US, particularly those in management and leadership. In addition to advanced degrees, substantial relevant work experience is generally essential for securing these positions. Certain professions, such as surgeons, physicians, and orthodontists, also necessitate extensive specialized training, ranging from three to nine years of focused specialization and sub-specialization after initial medical or dental degrees.
Want to develop in-demand skills for your future career?
Discover how you can acquire the most sought-after skills with our comprehensive free report and unlock the doors to a successful and high-earning career.
Download the free report today!
What are the advantages of pursuing a BBA/MBA degree in the USA for career advancement?
Earning a BBA or MBA degree in the USA offers numerous career advantages, especially for individuals aiming for high-paying positions. Beyond developing essential leadership and management skills, these degrees provide:
- Enhanced Earning Potential: Graduates with BBA/MBA degrees often command higher starting salaries and experience accelerated career progression, leading to greater long-term earning potential.
- Competitive Edge: These degrees provide a significant competitive advantage in the job market, making candidates more attractive to employers seeking skilled and knowledgeable professionals.
- Improved Resume Marketability: A BBA or MBA significantly enhances a resume, signaling to employers a candidate’s commitment to professional development and advanced business acumen.
- Increased Promotion and Managerial Opportunities: These degrees often serve as prerequisites or strong advantages for promotion to managerial and leadership roles within organizations.
- Career Versatility: The broad business knowledge and versatile skills gained through BBA/MBA programs open doors to diverse career paths across various industries and sectors.
- Diversified Skillset: The curriculum encompasses a wide range of business disciplines, fostering a diversified skillset applicable to numerous professional challenges and opportunities.
- Networking and Communication Skills: BBA/MBA programs emphasize networking opportunities and the development of strong communication skills, crucial for professional success in virtually any industry.
