by In today's competitive job market, securing a lucrative career is a goal for many. Six-figure salary jobs often seen as a benchmark of success, not only offers financial stability but also a rewarding professional life.
Whether you're a recent graduate mapping out your career path or a seasoned professional considering a switch, understanding which sphere can offer a substantial paycheck is crucial.
In this article, we'll explore various industries and professions that boast a 6-figure salary. From technology and healthcare to finance and law, discover the opportunities that can lead you to financial prosperity.
Top six-figure jobs
Software Engineer
Average Salary: $136,247
- Key Responsibilities. Designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. Working on various coding projects, debugging code, and collaborating with other tech professionals to create innovative solutions.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications can be beneficial.
- Skills: Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++), problem-solving, understanding of software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum), and strong analytical abilities.
Data Scientist
Average Salary: $125,609
- Key Responsibilities. Analyzing large datasets to extract actionable insights. Building predictive models, using machine learning techniques, and communicating findings to stakeholders.
- Education. Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field. A master’s or Ph.D. can be advantageous.
- Skills. Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., R, Python), machine learning, statistical analysis, data visualization, and strong problem-solving abilities.
Corporate Lawyer
Average Salary: $109,411
- Key Responsibilities. Providing legal advice to corporations, handling mergers and acquisitions, drafting contracts, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Education. Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school, passing the bar exam, and often additional specialization in corporate law.
- Skills. Legal knowledge, negotiation, analytical thinking, contract law, and strong written and verbal communication skills.
Pharmacist
Average Salary: $152,660
- Key Responsibilities. Dispensing prescription medications, advising patients on drug usage, and ensuring the safe use of pharmaceuticals.
- Education. Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and passing the required licensure exams.
- Skills. Pharmaceutical knowledge, attention to detail, patient counseling, organizational skills, and regulatory compliance.
Chief financial officer (CFO)
Average Salary: $441,105
- Key Responsibilities. Managing the company's finances, including planning, management of risks, record-keeping, and reporting, developing financial strategies, and ensuring legal compliance regarding transactions.
- Education. A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is required. Many CFOs have advanced degrees such as an MBA or a Master’s in Finance, along with CPA or CFA certifications.
- Skills. Financial management, strategic planning, risk calculation, communication, analytical skills, and leadership.
Chief executive officer (CEO)
Average Salary: $840,468
- Key Responsibilities. Setting strategic goals and ensuring they are measurable and describable, overseeing the company's operations and finances, making high-level decisions about policy and strategy, and representing the organization in public and at official functions.
- Education. Typically, a bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or a related field is required. Many CEOs also hold an MBA or other advanced degrees.
- Skills. Leadership, strategic thinking, decision-making, communication, financial acumen, and problem-solving.
Architect
Average Salary: $144,219
- Key Responsibilities. Meeting with clients to discuss project objectives, needs, and budgets, creating detailed drawings and specifications for architectural projects. Ensuring compliance with building codes, safety regulations, and zoning laws.
- Education. A bachelor’s degree in architecture is required. Most architects also complete a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree and obtain licensure through passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
- Skills. Design, creativity, technical drawing, project management, knowledge of building codes and regulations, and strong communication skills.
Dentist
Average Salary: $155,040
- Key Responsibilities. Examining patients' teeth and gums, taking X-rays, cleaning and extracting teeth, filling cavities, performing root canals, and educating patients on oral hygiene practices.
- Education. Requires a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school, typically a 4-year program after completing a bachelor's degree.
- Skills. Clinical skills (dental procedures and techniques), diagnostic abilities, patient care and communication, and attention to detail.
Physician
Average Salary: $473,719
- Key Responsibilities. Conducting comprehensive medical examinations to diagnose illnesses and injuries, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., blood tests, X-rays, MRIs) to gather information about patients' conditions.
- Education. Requires a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited medical school, typically a 4-year program following completion of a bachelor's degree. After medical school, physicians complete residency training in their chosen specialty, which can range from 3 to 7 years or more.
- Skills. Medical knowledge, diagnostic skills, clinical reasoning, patient care and communication, empathy and bedside manner.
Oncologist
Average Salary: $339,790
- Key Responsibilities. Diagnosing different types and stages of cancer through physical examinations, and medical histories. Diagnostic tests such as biopsies and imaging studies, developing and overseeing personalized treatment plans based on cancer type, stage, and patient health status.
- Education. Requires a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited medical school. It is followed by residency training in medical or hematology-oncology, typically lasting 5-7 years in total.
- Skills. Expertise in oncology and cancer treatment protocols, diagnostic skills, clinical decision-making, compassionate patient care, communication, and empathy.
Anesthesiologist
Average Salary: $432,500
- Key Responsibilities. Evaluating patients' medical histories and conditions to determine appropriate anesthesia plans. Administering anesthesia (general, regional, or local) during surgical procedures, adjusting dosage as needed to maintain patient safety and comfort.
- Education. Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from a medical school, followed by residency training in anesthesiology, which typically lasts 4 years.
- Skills. Expertise in anesthesia administration and monitoring, knowledge of pharmacology and physiology, critical thinking, and decision-making under pressure.
Veterinarian
Average Salary: $103,260
- Key Responsibilities. Diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries in a wide range of animal species. Performing medical exams, prescribing medications, administering vaccinations, surgeries, and providing preventive care.
- Education. Requires a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree from an accredited school. Veterinarians also need to pass national and state licensing exams to practice.
- Skills. Veterinary medical knowledge, diagnostic, surgical skills, animal handling and restraint, communication with pet owners and staff.
Airline Pilot
Average Salary: $145,995
- Key Responsibilities: Piloting commercial aircraft, ensuring passenger safety, navigating routes, and adhering to aviation regulations.
- Education. Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Aeronautical Science, or a related field. Commercial Pilot’s License and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification are required.
- Skills. Flight skills, navigation, decision-making under pressure, communication, and understanding of aviation regulations.
UX Designer
Average Salary: $105,186
- Key Responsibilities. Conducting user research to understand needs, motivations, and behaviors. Creating user personas and task flows to guide design decisions.
- Education. Bachelor’s degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Psychology, Computer Science, or a related field. A Master’s degree can be advantageous.
- Skills. User research and usability testing skills to gather insights and validate design decisions. Information architecture and interaction design skills to create intuitive user interfaces.
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6-figure jobs without a college degree
Not everyone thrives in academic environments or enjoys structured learning. Some people prefer hands-on, practical work or independent study over classroom-based education.
Fortunately, certain jobs that get paid a lot value skills and experience over formal education.
Real Estate Agent
Average Salary: $139,757
This is a licensed professional who represents buyers or sellers in real estate transactions. They are knowledgeable about the local real estate market, property values, and legal requirements.
What do I need to become one?
- Licensing Exam. After completing required pre-licensing courses, you need to pass an exam administered by your state's real estate commission or board.
- Background Check. Some states may require a background check to ensure you meet character standards for licensure.
- Choosing a Brokerage. To practice as a real estate agent, you must work under a licensed broker. Research and select a brokerage that aligns with your career goals.
- Application. Submit an application for your real estate license to the state regulatory authority, along with any required fees.
Real Estate Agent resume template:
Real Estate Broker
Average Salary: $266,346
A real estate broker is a licensed professional who helps clients buy, sell, or rent properties. They typically work independently or lead a real estate brokerage firm.
While both real estate brokers and agents work in the same industry, brokers have a higher level of experience and authority.
What do I need to become one?
- Education. You usually need to complete a certain number of hours of pre-licensing education.
- Experience. Most jurisdictions require you to have practical experience as a licensed real estate agent. The amount typically ranges from 1 to 3 years.
- Exam. You must pass a broker's licensing exam administered by your state's authority. It usually covers topics related to real estate laws, practices, contracts, and agency relationships.
- Background Check. Many states require a criminal background check as part of the licensing process.
Real Estate Broker resume template:
Owner Operator Driver
Average Salary: $142,801
Instead of being employed by a company as a driver, these specialists own or lease their truck and are responsible for finding and completing transportation contracts or jobs.
What do I need to become one?
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL). You must have a valid CDL issued by your state. Depending on the type of truck you plan to operate (e.g., Class A, B, or C), you'll need the appropriate endorsements (e.g., HazMat, tanker, double/triple trailers).
- Truck and Equipment. Decide whether you want to buy or lease a truck. Consider factors such as the type of freight you'll be hauling, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and overall reliability.
- Insurance. Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for yourself and your vehicle.
Freelancer
A freelancer is typically a self-employed individual who offers services to clients on a contract basis, rather than working for a company. They can work in various fields such as writing, graphic design, programming, consulting, and more.
Regarding income, freelancers can indeed have 6-figure salary jobs. The amount a person earns depends on several factors:
- Skill and Expertise. Highly skilled freelancers with in-demand abilities can command higher rates.
- Market Demand. The demand for the freelancer's services in their industry or niche affects their earning potential.
- Efficiency and Productivity. How efficiently a freelancer can complete projects can impact their income.
- Client Base. Building a strong client base and establishing long-term relationships can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
Example:
Sarah, a freelance graphic designer specializing in branding and illustration, charges $100 per hour. She consistently works 30 billable hours per week throughout the year. With a steady stream of clients and efficient project management, she earns $156,000 annually.
Freelance photographer resume template:
Geographic considerations
Different regions have varying costs of living. Jobs that pay 6 figures in a rural area might let a person have a high standard of living compared to a major city where expenses are typically higher.
Plus, certain industries thrive in specific regions. For instance, technology hubs like Silicon Valley or Seattle offer numerous opportunities in tech-related six-figure jobs.
Below is a comparison of some states based on the cost of living versus salary potential.
| State | Cost of living | Salary potential | City with the highest incomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | High | High (especially in tech and entertainment) | Silicon Valley, Los Angeles |
| New York | High | Very High (especially in finance, law) | New York City |
| Massachusetts | High | High (especially in biotech, academia) | Boston |
| Texas | Moderate | Competitive (especially in tech) | Austin |
| Florida | Moderate | Competitive (especially in tourism, healthcare) | Miami |
| Colorado | Moderate | Competitive (especially in tech, outdoor industries) | Denver |
| Washington | Moderate | High (especially in tech and aerospace) | Seattle |
| Illinois | Moderate | Competitive (especially in finance, healthcare) | Chicago |
| Georgia | Moderate | Competitive (especially in logistics, film production) | Atlanta |
| North Carolina | Moderate | Competitive (especially in tech, research) | Research Triangle Park |
| Tennessee | Moderate | Competitive (especially in healthcare, music) | Nashville |
| Arizona | Moderate | Competitive (especially in tech, tourism) | Phoenix |
Tax rates can significantly impact your take-home pay. States and cities have varying income rates, so it's essential to consider how much of your salary you get to keep after taxes.
Some states have progressive tax systems where higher incomes are taxed at higher rates.
Comparison of states on income tax rates:
| State | Income Tax Rates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | 1% - 13.3% | Progressive tax rate; highest in the nation. |
| New York | 4% - 10.9% | Progressive tax rate; highest in NYC. |
| Texas | 0% | No state income tax; only federal taxes apply. |
| Florida | 0% | No state income tax; only federal taxes apply. |
| Illinois | 4.95% | Flat tax rate; may change to progressive. |
| Massachusetts | 5% - 12% | Progressive tax rate. |
| Washington | 0% | No state income tax; only federal taxes apply. |
| Nevada | 0% | No state income tax; only federal taxes apply. |
| Tennessee | 0% | No state income tax; only certain investment taxed. |
| Pennsylvania | 3.07% | Flat tax rate. |
| Colorado | 4.55% | Flat tax rate. |
The rise of remote work has made it possible to have six-figure salary jobs while living in lower-cost areas.
For example, someone working remotely for a company based in San Francisco or New York City could choose to live in a smaller town or rural area where housing costs, taxes, and general expenses are significantly lower.
Conclusion
Achieving a six-figure salary is a significant milestone in one's professional journey, providing not just financial security but also a sense of accomplishment.
The careers highlighted in this article demonstrate that such high-paying jobs are available across various industries, each with its own set of challenges and rewards.
Remember, while a high salary is desirable, it's essential to consider your interests, skills, and values when choosing a career.
