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Are you a hustler and dream chaser who’s tired of the paycheck blues? Feel like you’re stuck in the grind with limited room to grow?
We’ve all been there, scrolling through job listings, dreaming of those extra zeros in our bank accounts…
Well, fear not! In this post, we’re going to dive into the secrets of how you can make that desired $100,000 or more per year!
But first, let’s get real for a moment.
Did you know that a whopping 96% of workers are actively seeking a new job? This is largely due to wanting higher pay. And it’s no wonder too! Life demands us to find ways to make more money to keep up with the ever growing list of expenses.
But hey, the good news is that you don’t have to feel lost in the big sea of job seekers! In this post, I’ll help you navigate through the career jungle and find your path to prosperity.
Where To Begin
I get it – searching for that perfect gig can be daunting. You don’t want any old job and you want something that you’re wildly passionate about because well, when you love what you do it doesn’t feel like work so much!
This isn’t just another cookie cutter list of mundane job options. I’ve handpicked some seriously cool careers that’ll not only have your friends wild with envy but will also make your bank account go ka-ching!
Stay tuned for this juicy line up of jobs that offers more than just a paycheck. These jobs have the potential to give you a sense of purpose, ignite your passion and make you excited to leap out of bed every morning!
So, grab yourself a beverage, get comfy and let’s embark on a journey together to find your path to financial freedom. Ready to rise above the crowd and claim your spot among the top earners?
Let’s do this!
PIN THIS: Make sure to pin this to your relevant Pinterest boards so you can always come back to this list of jobs that make $100,000+ per year.
*All salaries and earnings are an estimate sourced from ZipRecruiter. These figures can vary depending on location and year and are an approximation only.
1. Digital Marketing Manager
Average Salary: $84,827*
Top Earners: $149,500*
A marketing manager is the behind the scenes maestro creating the magic that gets people excited about products and brands, whether it’s in the real world or on the web. It’s a thrilling role with a chance to make a serious impact, but it also requires some serious multitasking skills!
Imagine you’re in the real world, passing by billboards, checking out ads in magazines or seeing commercials on TV. A marketing manager is the creative genius behind all of that. They’re the ones coming up with those catchy slogans, eye-catching visuals and brainstorming ways to make sure people remember a brand or product.
Now, let’s head to the digital realm. Here, marketing managers are like digital storytellers. They’re crafting captivating content for social media, designing attention grabbing banners on websites and strategizing how to get a brand trending in the online world. They also dive into data analytics to see what’s working and what needs a little boost.
Pros: You get to dive deep into the creative process. From dreaming up innovative campaigns to finding new ways to connect with customers, your imagination gets a serious workout! Plus, when your campaigns hit the bullseye, that feeling of “I did that!” is absolutely exhilarating.
Cons: Juggling a million balls! Marketing managers are like multitasking ninjas. You’re handling budgets, coordinating teams, analyzing data and dealing with tight deadlines – all at once. Sometimes, it can feel like a whirlwind, and you’ve got to stay super organized to keep everything in check.
2. Freelance Writer
Average Salary: $60,320*
Top Earners: $164,320*
Alright, let’s talk about being a freelance writer – the modern wordsmith who dances through the world of content creation!
Picture this: you’re not tied to a cubicle, but instead, you’re crafting words that bring websites to life, give articles their personality and make social media posts pop like confetti. Whether you’re penning insightful articles on how to make the world’s fluffiest pancakes or whipping up engaging website copy for the next big start-up, you’re like a verbal artist, painting pictures with your phrases.
And, here’s the real kicker…
The thrill of a freelance writing career goes way beyond typing words on a screen. It’s about diving into topics you never thought you’d explore, becoming a mini expert on everything from ancient history to futuristic tech trends. You’re not just churning out content; you’re creating connections with readers, sparking ideas and even giving someone that “aha!” moment.
The feeling of crafting the perfect sentence, of being the voice behind a brand people fall in love with, that’s the kind of stuff that makes freelance writing seriously rewarding. So, if you’ve got a way with words and a curious mind, grab that laptop and consider becoming a freelance writer.
Pros: As a freelance writer, words are your playground! You get to play with language, spin stories and create content that informs, entertains or persuades. You’re essentially breathing life into words. Which is pretty cool!
Cons: Sometimes, those creative juices can be elusive. The writer’s block struggle is real! Deadlines can be a bit of a pain too.
3. Blogger
Average Salary: $72,800*
Top Earners: $122,720*
Ah, the life of a blogger. Working when you want, where you want and how you want is the biggest trade-off in my opinion! Of course, the life of a blogger is one that is demanding, busy and requires you to be resilient and able to evolve with the ever-changing ways of the online world.
But, as someone who is living and breathing the blogger life, I can say that blogging is truly rewarding and satisfying compared to a regular office job. I love getting up ready to create new content for my audience, dabble in graphic design and learn something new every single day. You won’t be bored as a blogger! Unless perhaps you’ve chosen the wrong niche for your personal interests…
Choosing The Blogging Life
I understand that starting something new and completely out of your comfort zone is a daunting idea. I felt that way too when I first started this blog. But when I look back at how far I’ve come, it makes all the hard work worth it. Especially because I was miserable in my 9 to 5 office job and knew that I was in the wrong career and had to get out.
For me, I started this blog because I had a strong interest in saving and making money, so I decided to live that out through a blog so my readers could follow along with my journey. I love helping people reach their goals, big or little and it’s why I continue to work on this blog each day. Sharing my tips on saving money and how to make extra money to stretch that paycheck is my biggest passion.
Pros: Very easy to set up, low cost investment, be your own boss and share you ideas and passions with an audience.
Cons: Can be slow to gain an engaged following, requires patience and consistency to see results. It can also be hard to ‘find your voice’. You will need to set yourself apart from others in your niche.
4. Online Sales Manager
Average Salary: $74,696*
Top Earners: $138,500*
Alright, let’s talk about the champions of online deals – the sales managers!
These guys are the ones coming up with strategies to boost online sales, analyzing data to figure out what’s flying off the virtual shelves and collaborating with tech wizards to make websites super user friendly.
The salary of an online sales manager can vary widely depending on factors such as the industry, company size, location, level of experience and the individual’s performance.
For online sales managers specifically, the salary can also depend on the type of products or services being sold and the specific e-commerce platform or industry they’re involved in. In some cases, online sales managers may also have commission or bonus structures based on achieving sales targets.
If you’re all about the thrill of boosting online figures, then becoming an online sales manager might just be your calling.
Pros: The global reach and flexibility that comes with managing sales in the digital realm. Also, the digital nature of the job often offers more flexibility in terms of work location and hours. You might be able to work remotely and adapt your schedule to suit you, providing a better work/life balance.
Cons: The rapid pace of technological changes and the fierce online competition can be a challenge. E-commerce platforms, digital marketing strategies and consumer behaviors evolve quickly. So you need continuous learning and strategic agility to maintain a competitive edge which can be very demanding.
5. Fitness Instructor
Average Salary: $56,160*
Top Earners: $93,600*
A fitness instructor is like a beacon of health and energy, guiding people through workouts and making sure they’re having fun while they’re doing it. It’s a rewarding gig where you’re spreading good vibes, helping people get to be the best version of themselves.
Fitness instructors act like someone’s personal cheerleader and guide rolled into one. They create those heart pumping routines, show people the right moves and keep their motivation levels high. Whether it’s flexing muscles in a gym or breaking a sweat in virtual classes, these instructors are all about helping people reach their fitness goals and having a blast while doing it.
It’s also relatively easy to become a fitness instructor, with so many readily available courses you can take.
Pros: You get to spread health and happiness every day, helping people feel stronger, fitter and more confident, gaining a sense of fulfillment. And, your own fitness journey can become intertwined with your job.
Cons: Sometimes the schedule isn’t very flexible. Early morning classes, evening sessions and weekends might all be part of the gig. Also, keep in mind that your job is to be active – which means you’re on your feet, demonstrating moves and sometimes pushing your own physical limits.
6. Optometrist
Average Salary: $126,335*
Top Earners: $186,868*
An optometrist is a specialized eye doctor who’s all about making sure people’s vision is in top-notch shape. They perform eye exams to check how well you see, diagnose issues like short-sight and long-sight, and prescribe glasses or contact lenses if needed.
They’re like the detectives of the eye world, using special tools to look at your eyes and figure out if everything’s good or if anything looks suspicious. Optometrists can spot and manage eye diseases or conditions and refer you to other specialists if necessary.
So, whether you’re squinting at street signs or marveling at the tiniest details, optometrists are there to keep your eyes happy and your vision clear and it can be a very rewarding job to have.
Pros: You’re the hero who helps people see their best. Imagine someone struggling to read or see clearly, and with your guidance, they suddenly can. This is a fulfilling job that pays well.
Cons: Extended exposure to screens and close up work examining patients’ eyes using specialized equipment and reviewing digital records can strain their own eyes over time.
7. Pharmacist
Average Salary: $108,160*
Top Earners: $149,760*
A pharmacist fills prescriptions and double checks that everything’s safe and sound for you. They know the ins and outs of different drugs, their interactions and whether that blue pill should be taken before breakfast or after bedtime.
Pros: You’re in the front lines of healthcare. You’re not just handing out meds, you’re ensuring people are taking the right stuff, at the right time and in the right way. Kind of like being a guardian of health. Plus, you’re that go-to person for medical advice, making a real impact on people’s wellbeing.
Cons: Being a pharmacist means you’re on your feet, serving customers, filling prescriptions and answering questions for hours on end. There’s a lot of multitasking and sometimes dealing with impatient people. Staying focused and keeping your cool is key.
8. Social Media Manager
Average Salary: $63,626*
Top Earners: $110,500*
Ever wondered who’s behind those awesome posts, tweets and Insta stories that keep you hooked? That’s where a social media manager comes in! They’re like the puppet masters of the online world, making sure all those brands and businesses look super cool and engaging on social media.
Think of them as the brain and heart behind the brand’s online personality. They come up with killer content ideas, figure out when to post them for maximum impact and interact with followers like they’re old pals. From funny memes to serious announcements, they’re the ones making sure a brand’s message is heard loud and clear amongst all the digital noise.
Pros: You get to create narratives that captivate audiences, whether it’s through a clever caption or a mesmerizing visual. When your posts resonate with people, the feeling is very rewarding. Plus, you’re always in the know about the latest memes and trends!
Cons: Social media never sleeps, and your inbox might be buzzing with notifications at all hours. Balancing work and personal time can be a bit tricky when your job involves keeping an eye on the online chatter day and night.
9. Software Developer
Average Salary: $107,546*
Top Earners: $161,500*
Think of software developers as the architects of the digital universe. They write instructions that machines follow, creating everything from those addictively fun games to the apps that help you order pizza in your PJs. They’re like digital problem solvers, turning ideas into reality with lines of code.
Software developers are in high demand across various industries due to the increasing reliance on technology and digital solutions. Some of the most popular industries for software developers include:
Technology and Software Companies: This is the most obvious one. Tech giants like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon are always on the lookout for skilled software developers to work on cutting edge projects.
Finance and Banking: Financial institutions require software developers to create and maintain their online banking platforms, trading systems and risk management software.
Healthcare and Medical Technology: With the rise of telemedicine, electronic health records and medical devices, the healthcare industry needs developers to build secure and efficient software solutions.
E-commerce and Retail: Online shopping platforms, inventory management systems and personalized customer experiences all rely on software development.
Gaming: The gaming industry is all about creating immersive digital experiences. Game developers are responsible for designing, coding and testing video games.
Entertainment and Media: Streaming services, social media platforms and content delivery networks depend on software developers to ensure seamless user experiences.
Energy and Utilities: Smart grids, energy management systems and renewable energy technology are areas that require software development expertise.
Telecommunications: Software developers play a crucial role in developing communication systems, network infrastructure and mobile applications.
Education and E-learning: The demand for online education platforms, e-learning apps and educational software is on the rise, creating opportunities for software developers in the education sector.
PROS & CONS
Pros: You get to design and craft solutions from scratch, turning ideas into functional applications or programs. It’s a playground for creative minds, where you can invent new ways to tackle challenges and bring your imagination to life through code.
Cons: The complexity of software development can be quite challenging. Software developers need to constantly learn and adapt to new programming languages, frameworks and tools. Debugging and troubleshooting complex issues can be time consuming and frustrating, so you need persistence and patience.
10. Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $109,733*
Top Earners: $171,702*
A Physician Assistant, or PA, is a healthcare professional who practices medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician or surgeon. PAs are trained to provide a wide range of medical services like diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting medical tests, performing procedures and offering education and counseling to patients.
A PA can work in various medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, outpatient centers and physician offices. They collaborate closely with physicians and other healthcare team members to provide comprehensive care to patients. PAs can specialize in various medical fields, including primary care, surgery, emergency medicine, pediatrics, dermatology and more.
To become a PA, you’ll need to complete a master’s degree. After graduating, PAs must pass a national certification exam to become licensed to practice in their respective states. They might also pursue additional certifications or specializations in specific medical areas.
Pros: Diverse and rewarding patient care – you have the chance to work across various medical specialties, diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans and assisting with medical procedures.
Cons: The workload and responsibility of a PA can be demanding. PAs often work long hours, including evenings and weekends. The role may involve making critical medical decisions, managing complex cases and handling emergencies, which can lead to high levels of stress and pressure.
11. Actuary
Average Salary: $133,336*
Top Earners: $135,013*
You know when you’re planning for important things like your future, insurance, or any big financial decision, you want to be sure everything adds up? That’s where an actuary comes in – they’re like the risk managers of the financial world.
Actuaries will crunch all those numbers and data to figure out the likelihood of different events happening. Things like how likely it is for someone to get sick, a car to crash or even for you to live to a ripe old age! They use their clever math skills to calculate risks and help insurance companies, businesses and even governments make smart decisions.
So, they’re kind of like fortune tellers, but instead of crystal balls, they’ve got spreadsheets and calculators. They make sure that when life throws curveballs, you’re financially prepared.
Pros: Substantial earning potential and financial stability due to the high demand for their specialized skills in risk assessment and management. These often lead to competitive salaries, job security and opportunities for career advancement.
Cons: Rigorous and time consuming process of becoming certified, which involves passing a series of challenging exams that covers complex mathematical and statistical concepts. Exam prep and study commitment can be demanding, requiring dedication and perseverance to achieve certification and advancement in the field.
12. Insurance Sales
Average Salary: $85,426*
Top Earners: $128,500*
You know that car, health, contents or even life insurance that’s available? Well, someone’s got to make sure you’re covered, and that’s where insurance sales come in. They explain all the nitty gritty details of insurance plans, from how they protect your stuff to what happens if things go haywire.
They chat with you about your needs, like if you’ve got a car or a family, and then they help you find the right insurance plan to keep you safe. They’ve got to be very good at explaining things, answering questions and helping you understand why having a backup plan is so important.
Bottom line, insurance sales helps people’s peace of mind and financial security. There might be a bit of legwork involved, but the rewards are knowing you helped someone feel secure and protected.
Pros: Potential for big earnings through commissions, bonuses, meeting sales targets and building a strong client base.
Cons: Uncertainty and pressure associated with meeting sales quotas and targets. The nature of the job often requires consistent prospecting, cold calling and client acquisition, which can lead to periods of high stress and a sense of unpredictability.
13. IT Manager
Average Salary: $85,426*
Top Earners: $128,500*
If you were an IT manager, you’d be the tech boss who oversees an organization’s technology operations. You’d be responsible for ensuring that computer systems, networks and software run smoothly. You lead a team of tech experts, making sure everyone’s on the same page, and plan out how the company’s tech will evolve in the future.
From fixing glitches to safeguarding against cyber threats, you’re the one who keeps the digital gears turning. But! The role involves a lot of multitasking and staying updated on everchanging tech trends.
And it’s not just about fixing stuff – IT managers are also the strategists. They plan out how the company’s tech will grow, what new gadgets or systems are needed and how to keep everything safe from cyber baddies.
Pros: You get to lead and shape technological initiatives that drive the success of an organization and have the chance to implement innovative solutions, optimize systems and guide teams in creating a seamless digital environment. This can directly impact business operations, efficiency and growth, offering a sense of accomplishment and recognition for driving technological advancements.
Cons: Constantly staying up to date with tech trends, requiring constant study and learning the latest on all things IT.
14. Executive
Average Salary: $81,776*
Top Earners: $181,487*
An Executive in a company is the boss of the big picture. They make important decisions, set goals and guide the whole team to make sure the company does well. They work on plans for the future, manage money and help the company grow. It’s kind of like they’re steering the ship to success and making sure everyone’s working together and communicating well.
The top 5 highest paying industries for an executive are:
Finance and Banking: Executives in financial institutions, investment banking and financial services often earn some of the highest salaries because of the complexity of financial operations and the critical decisions they make.
Technology: In the tech industry, executives in companies focused on software development, hardware manufacturing and IT services can command high salaries due to the rapid growth and innovation in this field.
Healthcare: Healthcare executives, especially those in hospital administration, pharmaceutical companies and healthcare services, earn very good salaries due to the intricate nature of the industry and the importance of effective management.
Consulting: Executives in management consulting firms are well compensated for their expertise in providing strategic guidance to various industries and helping organizations solve complex challenges.
Energy and Utilities: Executives in the energy sector, including oil, gas and renewable energy, can earn high salaries due to the global demand for energy resources and the significant responsibilities associated with overseeing energy operations.
PROS & CONS
Pros: You get the opportunity to shape the direction and strategy of a company. You also have the opportunity to drive innovation, lead teams, and make high impact decisions that can directly shape the company’s success and growth. The sense of responsibility and authority that comes with an executive role can be very rewarding.
Cons: High level of responsibility and pressure in this role. The weight of decision making and the need to meet demanding expectations can contribute to a demanding and sometimes overwhelming work environment.
15. Airline Pilot
Average Salary: $77,1158*
Top Earners: $119,850*
Being an airline pilot offers a thrilling and rewarding career path with many perks.
Having the chance to soar through the skies as the captain of a commercial aircraft is a dream come true for many aviation enthusiasts. That exhilarating feeling of taking off, navigating the skies and executing smooth landings is unparalleled.
The lifestyle of an airline pilot often involves a mix of adventure and exploration. Pilots have the opportunity to travel to various destinations around the world, experience diverse cultures and enjoy layovers in different cities. This provides a unique work/life balance, as they get to explore new places while also pursuing their passion for flying.
The financial rewards of being an airline pilot are also significant. As you gain experience and seniority, you can earn a competitive salary, supplemented by benefits like health insurance, retirement plans and flight perks for yourself and your family.
In essence, being an airline pilot offers the perfect blend of adventure, steady income and the satisfaction of navigating the skies while making a positive impact on the lives of passengers.
PROS & CONS
Pros: Incredible sense of freedom and adventure that comes with this job. You have the privilege of commanding aircraft and soaring through the skies, experiencing amazing views and the thrill of takeoffs and landings. Unique opportunity to travel to diverse destinations around the world, exploring different cultures and cities along the way.
Cons: Challenging work schedule and time away from home. Pilots often have irregular hours, long flights and frequent time zone changes, leading to disruptions in sleep patterns and difficulties in maintaining a consistent personal life.
16. Business Owner
Average Salary: $109,437*
Top Earners: $183,500*
Being a business owner certainly has its advantages. You’re the one calling the shots, making the decisions and leading the way. It’s like having your own little empire where you get to turn your ideas into reality.
When it comes to industries, the sky’s the limit! You could dive into anything from food and fashion to tech and fitness. Some popular picks are restaurants, online stores, software start-ups, consulting services, blogging, freelancing, just to name a few!
The key to being a successful business owner is a mix of passion, perseverance and adaptability. First off, you’ve got to be genuinely passionate about what you’re doing – that fire in your belly will keep you motivated even when things get tough. Second, perseverance is your secret weapon. There will be bumps and setbacks along the way, but being able to weather those storms and keep pushing forward is crucial.
Adaptability is the third ingredient. The business world isn’t a straight path; it’s more like a maze. Being open to change, adjusting your strategies when needed and staying in tune with market trends and customer needs can set you up for success. Oh, and don’t forget the magic of learning. Being curious, staying up to date and constantly improving your skills can keep your business ahead of the curve.
Pros: You’re in control. You get to build something from the ground up, see your vision come to life and potentially reap the rewards of your hard work. Plus, you can grow your biz as big as you dream!
Cons: Responsibility. You’re not just the boss; you’re also the accountant, marketer and problem solver. The weight of making everything run smoothly can be heavy, and the stress can sometimes feel like a never ending roller coaster.
17. Nurse
Average Salary: $70,438*
Top Earners: $135,282*
When the Covid pandemic hit, the world got to see just how important and hard-working our healthcare workers really are. Without them, we’d be in a lot of trouble!
Being a nurse is like being a superhero in scrubs. They take care of patients, giving meds, dressing wounds and keeping a watchful eye on their wellbeing. It’s all about making sure people are comfortable and getting better.
Why is this job so rewarding? Well, when you see a patient smile because you made them feel better or held their hand during a tough moment, that feeling is like a warm hug. It’s knowing you’re making a real difference in people’s lives when they’re vulnerable. An amazing feeling!
Pros: You build heart warming connections and get to be there for people during their highs and lows. A very rewarding career.
Cons: Nursing can be pretty demanding. Long shifts, fast paced environments, and at times dealing with sad and stressful situations can be emotionally draining.
18. Veterinarian
Average Salary: $174,294
Top Earners: $391,344
If you adore animals and have soft spot for them when they’re in need of care, a veterinarian could be the perfect job for you.
As a vet, you can make a lot of money offering medical care to animals, performing surgeries, giving vaccinations and providing health consultations. You can work in private practices, animal hospitals, or even start your own clinic. Some vets specialize in areas like exotic animals or research, which can lead to some unique opportunities.
Similar to nursing, it’s a rewarding job because you get to help animals lead healthier lives and bring joy to their owners. Seeing a sick pet recover and watching the bond between pets and their families grow stronger is so fulfilling.
To become a veterinarian, it usually takes around 8 years of education. This includes 4 years of undergraduate studies and 4 years of veterinary school. After that, you might want to do internships or specialized training to grow your skills. It’s a journey that requires dedication, but the opportunity to make a positive impact on animals’ lives makes it all worthwhile.
Pros: You get to be the hero who heals and brings joy to animals and their families and there can be some very heart warming moments.
Cons: Some cases might not have happy endings, and that’s a heavy thing to carry. Plus, the job can be emotionally draining with long hours and emergencies.
FAQs
WHAT IS THE HOURLY RATE OF $100,000?
Assuming an average of 2,080 work hours in a year (40 hours per week for 52 weeks), the hourly rate would be approximately $48.08.
IS $100,000/YEAR A GOOD SALARY?
According to a CNBC article which included three different definitions of “upper class”, earning $100,000 per year puts you above the average American household earnings and considers this an “upper class” salary. Keep in mind, this is assuming you’re an individual without dependents. It also depends where you live, what responsibilities you have and the lifestyle you lead. Then of course there’s inflation to consider. $100,000 might be a great salary for one person to live comfortably, whereas it may not be enough for someone else with different responsibilities.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO MAKE $100,000/YEAR?
These days, you don’t have to hold a degree to earn a salary of $100,000 or more. There is the route of formal education where you attend university and study for years and years to eventually earn the big bucks. But you can also work your way up from the ground, particularly in the entrepreneurial world, to six figures and beyond. The best thing you can do is find your passion and what piques your interest. Then look for any available work in that area, or, potentially starting your own business in that area.
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