50 High-Paying Jobs in the U.S. You Can Land Without a College Degree
Top Careers That Don’t Require a College Degree
College isn’t the right path for everyone, and with student loan debt in the U.S. surpassing $1.7 trillion as of June 2024, many are rethinking the necessity of higher education. A May 2024 report by Pew Research revealed that only 22% of Americans believe college is worth the financial burden of student loans. Additionally, nearly half (49%) feel that having a bachelor’s degree is less important for securing a high-paying job than it was two decades ago.
While it’s true that those with a bachelor’s degree tend to earn more over their lifetime than those with just a high school diploma, a college degree isn’t the only route to financial success. In fact, over half of the U.S. workforce does not hold a college degree, and there are numerous lucrative careers available to them.
Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Stacker compiled a list of the 50 High-Paying Jobs in the U.S. that don’t require a college degree. These roles are ranked based on annual wages, with consideration for experience, training requirements, employment levels, and future job projections. Jobs without available annual wage data were excluded.
In recent years, college enrollment has declined, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re unsure whether college is the right choice—whether because of financial concerns or personal preferences—you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of career opportunities available that don’t demand a four-year degree.
From technical and mechanical roles in repair work to supervisory positions in retail, the possibilities are diverse. Some of these careers may require alternative education, such as specialized training programs, apprenticeships, or licensing, but they remain accessible without a traditional college degree.
Explore these high-paying opportunities and find a career path that suits your skills and aspirations.
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