Contents

    The highest-paying jobs without a degree in 2024

    Jeremy Coppock
    Jeremy Coppock

    Jeremy is an education researcher, journalist, and editor for Degreechoices. He majored in Slavic languages and has a master’s degree in Eastern European studies.

    He has previous experience as a fraud analyst, in-house translator, teacher, and truck driver.

    The highest-paying jobs without a degree in 2024
    Contents

      In 2024, the highest-paying jobs without a degree are makeup artists for actors and performers, nuclear power reactor operators, and commercial pilots.

      The highest-paid trade jobs are nuclear power reactor operators, commercial pilots, and power distributor/dispatchers.

      Highly self-motivated people can sometimes land lucrative tech jobs without going to college. For example, 21.4% of information security analysts, and 35.8% of computer support specialists, have no college degree.

      The average person with a bachelor’s degree still earns 53.4% more than someone with just a high-school diploma.

      So, you hate studying, and your attempts to make your hamster famous on TikTok have backfired tragically. Like many Americans, you may be doubting whether college is really worth it, and you’re scanning the horizon for decent careers that don’t require a degree.

      We have good news.

      There are, in fact, many high(-ish) paying jobs available to people with just a high school diploma or a certificate.

      Read on to discover the highest-paying jobs in the U.S. without a degree.

      The highest-paying jobs without a degree

      Shockingly for some, the highest paying job without a degree, on average, is makeup artist for actors and performers. People with this job earn an eyewatering $134,750 per year on average according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

      To create this list, we browsed through all the jobs listed by the BLS that don’t require a college degree (although some require certification).

      See our list of high-paying jobs that don’t require college below.

      Makeup artists, theatrical and performance

      Jobs in creative fields like makeup can be hard to snag. But if you have the talent and connections, being an MUA for actors and performers can be a pretty lucrative gig.

      Unfortunately, almost all job openings are in New York City or LA, and there is not a whole lot of demand.

      To become one, work on your portfolio, promote yourself on social media, and do your best to network.

      10% $21,540
      25% $22,720
      Median $47,390
      75% $101,330
      90% $141,060

      Total employment

      4,130

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      35.5%

      Degree required

      None

      Nuclear power reactor operator

      Nuclear power reactor operators monitor nuclear reactors that produce electricity, ensuring they are operating safely and efficiently. It helps if you have a nuclear power plant in your area.

      To become one, you’ll need to get experience working at a nuclear power plant and obtain a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

      10% $92,270
      25% $103,880
      Median $120,350
      75% $134,100
      90% $151,980

      Total employment

      5,760

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -32.1%

      Degree required

      None

      Commercial pilot

      Commercial pilots operate planes on non-scheduled routes. They fly charter planes, helicopters, and air ambulances safely, smoothly, and sometimes even on time. Note that these are not airline pilots, who need a bachelor’s degree.

      To become one, you’ll need to obtain a pilot license and log a certain number of hours in the air.

      10% $56,260
      25% $79,440
      Median $113,080
      75% $168,700
      90% $208,000

      Total employment

      52,750

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      11.2%

      Degree required

      None

      Power distributors and dispatchers

      Power distributors and dispatchers manage the flow of electricity from power plants to power consumers. They ensure a reliable and stable energy supply and respond to any outages.

      You’ll need extensive on-the-job training to become one, including some classroom hours and hands-on learning.

      10% $68,360
      25% $87,440
      Median $104,750
      75% $122,830
      90% $138,950

      Total employment

      9,040

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -7%

      Degree required

      None

      Elevator and escalator installers and repairers

      Ever wondered what happens when you get stuck in an elevator? Training to become an elevator/escalator installer or repairer could help you confront your phobias and earn you a handsome paycheck.

      If you want this job, you’ll most likely need to complete an apprenticeship and secure a license.

      10% $51,960
      25% $75,570
      Median $102,420
      75% $127,310
      90% $138,910

      Total employment

      23,990

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      6%

      Degree required

      None

      First-line supervisors of police and detectives

      These are basically high-ranking cops, often called police sergeants, lieutenants, or captains. They train staff, make sure their subordinates are following regulations and best practices, and investigate charges of misconduct.

      If you want to become a police captain, you’ll need to go to a police academy and accumulate experience as a cop, working your way up through the ranks to a management position.

      10% $49,910
      25% $66,390
      Median $86,220
      75% $108,380
      90% $135,050

      Total employment

      84,120

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      8.3%

      Degree required

      None

      Transportation, storage, and distribution managers

      Managers in charge of logistics coordinate the transportation, storage, and distribution of various goods, making sure everyone adheres to the many rules and regulations for moving stuff around.

      To become one, you’ll need to first get an entry-level job in a relevant environment, like a goods storage facility or logistics department, and work your way up to management. Some certifications, like Supply Chain Management Professional, could help you achieve your goal.

      10% $58,810
      25% $76,120
      Median $99,200
      75% $133,090
      90% $175,530

      Total employment

      198,780

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      8.3%

      Degree required

      None

      Power plant operators

      Power plant operators keep power plants running. They control the systems that generate electrical power.

      You will need extensive on-the-job training to become a power plant operator.

      10% $54,080
      25% $72,860
      Median $97,010
      75% $106,780
      90% $123,120

      Total employment

      31,490

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -13.7%

      Degree required

      None

      Electrical and electronics repairers, powerhouse, substation, and relay

      Electrical and electronic repairers at powerhouses, substations, and in-service relays inspect, test, and maintain vital electrical equipment. They are basically boss-mode electricians.

      To get this job, you’ll most likely need some combination of vocational school, an apprenticeship, or work experience.

      10% $58,890
      25% $78,340
      Median $96,600
      75% $107,830
      90% $122,840

      Total employment

      24,790

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -2.6%

      Degree required

      None

      Petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers

      People with these jobs make sure all the mechanical equipment used in petroleum refining and processing is working correctly, fixing it if needed.

      You may need significant on-the-job training, an apprenticeship, and certification to become one.

      10% $57,970
      25% $76,130
      Median $94,580
      75% $102,410
      90% $110,220

      Total employment

      33,360

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      5.4%

      Degree required

      None

      Ship engineers

      Ship engineers aren’t exactly engineers, they’re more like on-board managers for mechanics. You’ll oversee a team of technicians who maintain engines, boilers, and other equipment on a ship.

      You’ll most likely need vocational school and several years of training to become a ship engineer.

      10% $57,140
      25% $68,880
      Median $94,270
      75% $122,390
      90% $141,910

      Total employment

      8,860

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      7.7%

      Degree required

      None

      Detectives and criminal investigators

      Detectives and criminal investigators try and establish the who, how, and why behind crimes.

      The best route to becoming a criminal investigator is to start out as a police officer and get promoted. You’ll need a lot of on-the-ground training. Some states require you to get a license or certification.

      10% $50,670
      25% $64,830
      Median $91,100
      75% $116,170
      90% $154,360

      Total employment

      106,730

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      2.5%

      Degree required

      None

      Captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels

      There are many job opportunities aboard ships, and working your way up to captain could earn you a great salary.

      Besides work experience and potentially vocational school, you’ll need to get a license from the U.S. Coast Guard.

      10% $44,600
      25% $60,550
      Median $88,730
      75% $123,640
      90% $161,510

      Total employment

      34,520

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      13.4%

      Degree required

      None

      Postmasters and mail superintendents

      Becoming a mail delivery boss could earn you a handsome paycheck with nice government benefits.

      To become, start out as a mail carrier and slowly work your way up the ranks.

      10% $79,060
      25% $82,990
      Median $88,670
      75% $95,660
      90% $104,940

      Total employment

      13,810

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -7.6%

      Degree required

      None

      First-line supervisors of firefighting and prevention workers

      Firefighting supervisors assign firefighters to strategic locations, perform rescue functions, assess the nature of fires and the danger they pose, and perform other vital functions.

      If you want to get this job, you’ll need to start out as a firefighter, which involves attending a fire academy and getting certified. You’ll then need to accumulate experience and get promoted.

      10% $49,910
      25% $66,390
      Median $86,220
      75% $108,380
      90% $135,050

      Total employment

      84,120

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      8.3%

      Degree required

      None

      Electrical power-line installers and repairers

      People with this job set up cables and wires used in electrical power distribution systems.

      Getting this job usually involves vocational school or an apprenticeship and on-the-job training.

      10% $48,220
      25% $63,120
      Median $85,420
      75% $104,230
      90% $119,920

      Total employment

      120,170

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      1.3%

      Degree required

      None

      First-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers

      These are managers who lead teams of people working in sales, but not in stores.

      To become one, start out as a salesperson and get really good at your job.

      10% $48,640
      25% $63,510
      Median $84,570
      75% $119,530
      90% $164,420

      Total employment

      227,150

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -5%

      Degree required

      None

      Subway and streetcar operators

      Driving a subway train or a tram is a big responsibility, but the paycheck is pretty sweet. You can also make a huge impact (literally).

      To become one, it helps to have experience as a bus or truck driver. You’ll undergo extensive training on-the-job before you start working.

      10% $54,690
      25% $73,570
      Median $84,270
      75% $84,310
      90% $87,110

      Total employment

      14,860

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      10%

      Degree required

      None

      Chemical plant and system operators

      These folks control the chemical processes or systems of machines, often in a factory setting. This could involve monitoring recording instruments, shutting down equipment, using panelboards, inspecting units, and more.

      While you can get this job with a high school diploma, vocational school or an associate degree could be beneficial.

      10% $47,650
      25% $59,830
      Median $80,030
      75% $99,960
      90% $108,470

      Total employment

      17,980

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -0.3%

      Degree required

      None

      Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers

      Agricultural managers direct the operations of farms, ranches, greenhouses, fisheries, nurseries, timber tracts, and similar enterprises. If it goes oink-oink or cluck-cluck, these people know how to raise it, sell it, and make a profit.

      Note that becoming a farmer or rancher can be difficult if you’re not born into it. Starting your own agricultural enterprise from scratch will require a significant initial investment.

      10% $47,800
      25% $63,510
      Median $83,770
      75% $109,090
      90% $136,410

      Total employment

      6,150

      Projected growth (2018-2028)

      -0.6%

      Degree required

      None

      The full list of highest-paying jobs with no degree…in a table

      See a comprehensive list of the top 50 highest-paying jobs with no degree in the U.S. in the table below.

      Job title Typical education Average earnings 
      Makeup artists, theatrical and performance Postsecondary nondegree award $134,750  
      Nuclear power reactor operators High school diploma or equivalent  $120,350  
      Commercial pilots Postsecondary nondegree award  $113,080  
      Power distributors and dispatchers High school diploma or equivalent  $104,750  
      Elevator and escalator installers and repairers High school diploma or equivalent  $102,420  
      First-line supervisors of police and detectives High school diploma or equivalent  $101,750  
      Transportation, storage, and distribution managers High school diploma or equivalent  $99,200  
      Power plant operators High school diploma or equivalent  $97,010  
      Electrical and electronics repairers, powerhouse, substation, and relay Postsecondary nondegree award  $96,600  
      Petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers High school diploma or equivalent  $94,580  
      Ship engineers Postsecondary nondegree award  $94,270  
      Detectives and criminal investigators High school diploma or equivalent  $91,100  
      Captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels Postsecondary nondegree award  $88,730  
      Postmasters and mail superintendents High school diploma or equivalent  $88,670  
      Transportation inspectors High school diploma or equivalent  $87,290  
      First-line supervisors of firefighting and prevention workers Postsecondary nondegree award  $86,220  
      Electrical power-line installers and repairers High school diploma or equivalent  $85,420  
      First-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers High school diploma or equivalent  $84,570  
      Subway and streetcar operators High school diploma or equivalent  $84,270  
      Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers High school diploma or equivalent  $83,770  
      Signal and track switch repairers High school diploma or equivalent  $82,710  
      Gas plant operators High school diploma or equivalent  $82,560  
      Gambling managers High school diploma or equivalent  $82,380  
      Chemical plant and system operators High school diploma or equivalent  $80,030  
      Electrical and electronics installers and repairers, transportation equipment Postsecondary nondegree award  $79,160  
      First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers High school diploma or equivalent  $76,760  
      Claims adjusters, examiners, and investigators High school diploma or equivalent  $75,020  
      Aircraft mechanics and service technicians Postsecondary nondegree award  $75,020  
      Locomotive engineers High school diploma or equivalent  $74,770  
      Artists and related workers, all other No formal educational credential  $74,750  
      Insurance appraisers, auto damage Postsecondary nondegree award  $74,520  
      Fire inspectors and investigators Postsecondary nondegree award  $74,160  
      Police and sheriff’s patrol officers High school diploma or equivalent  $72,280  
      Transit and railroad police High school diploma or equivalent  $72,250  
      Wellhead pumpers High school diploma or equivalent  $71,830  
      Media and communication equipment workers, all other High school diploma or equivalent  $71,340  
      Media and communication workers, all other High school diploma or equivalent  $71,340  
      Boilermakers High school diploma or equivalent  $71,140  
      Railroad conductors and yardmasters High school diploma or equivalent  $71,130  
      First-line supervisors of correctional officers High school diploma or equivalent  $70,530  
      Executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants High school diploma or equivalent  $70,310  
      Athletes and sports competitors No formal educational credential  $70,280  
      Control and valve installers and repairers, except mechanical door High school diploma or equivalent  $70,100  
      Underground mining machine operators, all other No formal educational credential  $68,910  
      Flight attendants High school diploma or equivalent  $68,370  
      Construction and building inspectors High school diploma or equivalent  $67,700  
      Stationary engineers and boiler operators High school diploma or equivalent  $67,640  
      First-line supervisors of mechanics, installers, and repairers High school diploma or equivalent  $67,460  
      Rail-track laying and maintenance equipment operators High school diploma or equivalent  $67,000  
      Electrical and electronics repairers, commercial and industrial equipment Postsecondary nondegree award  $66,680 

      Source – Bureau of Labor Statistics

      Hate studying? Consider trade school

      While not all lucrative careers require college, most do require some schooling. For many jobs, this means trade school.

      Yes, you’ll still have to spend a significant part of your week learning new skills, but hey, at least it won’t involve writing essays about poems.

      Trade school is a great alternative to college for down-to-earth people who like to work with their hands.

      A trade school education usually results in a diploma or certificate and can lead to high-paying trade jobs like electrician, welder, dental hygienist, wind turbine technician, or even licensed practical nurse.

      What is a trade job?

      A trade job is any job that requires advanced training, but not a college degree. You can get this training by going to trade or vocational school or completing an apprenticeship.

      Highest-paying trade jobs without a degree

      We’ll be honest, this list closely resembles the one above, minus some of the less accessible suggestions like “makeup artist for actors” and management-level positions.

      The highest paying trade job without a degree is nuclear power reactor operator – they make $115,870 per year on average according to the BLS.

      1. Nuclear power reactor operators – $120,350
      2. Commercial pilots – $113,080
      3. Power distributors and dispatchers – $104,750
      4. Elevator and escalator installers and repairers – $102,420
      5. Power plant operators – $97,010
      6. Electrical and electronics repairers, powerhouse, substation, and relay – $96,600
      7. Petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers – $94,580
      8. Ship engineers – $94,270
      9. Captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels – $88,730
      10. Transportation inspectors – $87,290

      » Read: Types of trade jobs

      Can you work in tech without a degree?

      Actually, yes! While most high-paying tech jobs require a degree, certain employers will hire promising individuals who can prove they have a certain skill set, regardless of whether they went to college.

      There are several ways to prove you have the tech skills needed to get hired:

      1. Pass an exam. Some subsets of IT, like cybersecurity, rely heavily on certification examinations to prove qualification. While these tests are very difficult, some people are able to pass them without schooling.
      2. Sign up for a tech bootcamp. A tech bootcamp is a short, intensive course that gives you a rapid overview of one branch of tech – like UX design, coding, or data analytics. It is a form of microcredentialing.
      3. Pick up tech skills at your current job. If you’re lucky, you may be able to pick up IT skills at your current job – and use your experience to get a better position in the tech field. If you work for a big corporation, look out for opportunities to cross-train.

      Highest-paying tech jobs without a degree

      We’ll be real. Most employers are looking for someone with a bachelor’s degree to fill these positions.

      However, government data from O*NET, a data tool from the U.S. Department of Labor, shows that some people are still able to get high-paid tech jobs with no degree. O*NET gathers data about the average educational attainment for different positions.

      Below, we show some common tech jobs, average salaries according to the BLS, and the percentage of people with these jobs who don’t have a college degree (whose highest level of education is “less than a high school diploma”, “high school diploma or equivalent”, or “some college, but no degree”).

      Job title Average salary Percent with no college degree 
      Software developers $132,270  9.4% 
      Information security analysts $120,360  21.4% 
      Computer systems analysts $103,800  18.3% 
      Software quality assurance analysts and testers $101,800  17.7% 
      Computer programmers $99,700  18.1% 
      Web and digital interface designers $98,540  21.7% 
      Network and computer systems administrators $95,360  28.9% 
      Web developers $84,960  19.9% 
      Technical writers $80,050  15.2% 
      Computer numerically controlled tool programmers $63,440  77.1% 
      Computer support specialists $60,810  35.8% 
      Graphic designers $58,910  20.5% 
      Data entry keyers $36,190 60.6% 

      Source: O*NET and the BLS

      Would you be better off getting a degree after all?

      While college is not for everyone, and student loans are daunting, getting a good ol’ bachelor’s degree is still worth it financially for most people – as long as you’re smart about where you go to college and what you choose to study (see our list of the worst college majors ever).

      The average person with a bachelor’s degree earns $57,540 per year – which is 53.4% more than the average earnings of someone with just a high school diploma ($37,517 per year).

      Meanwhile, the national average earnings for someone with an associate degree are $45,744.

      While we agree that the price of college is getting out of hand, a degree is still your best bet to achieve financial security.

      Final thoughts

      There are many great job opportunities for people who don’t want to go to college – especially if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty.

      For a start, check out our overview of the best trade schools for electricians or welders.

      These programs provide the optimal combination of affordability and high earnings for graduates.

      Alternatively, check out our definitive rankings of the best-value colleges in the country if you decide to pursue a bachelor’s after all.

      Did you enjoy this post?