Do you know the highest-paying jobs in America? Let’s find out.
After the ordeal of trying to retain workers, many employers have new plans. They plan to give smaller raises this year than they did in 2024. On average, salaries will increase by 3.5%. This rate is slightly less than the 3.8% increase from the previous year. However, the amount of the raise workers will get depends on the type of job. For instance, people in business services may get a 5% raise, while those in education and nonprofits might only get 3%.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, companies increased salaries significantly to keep workers. However, the job market is slowing down, and workers do not have as much power to demand higher pay. Now that employees are no longer in control and the job market is cooling down, what are the highest-paying jobs in America?
Stacker compiled a list of the highest-paying jobs in the U.S. The data used wage estimates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which was updated in April 2024. The list also explains what these jobs involve, the skills needed, and how to get started in those careers. This article includes 8 of the highest-paying jobs compiled by Stacker.
The Highest-Paying Jobs in America
The following is a list of 8 highest-paying jobs in America in descending order:
8. Athletes and Sports Competitors
Athletes and sports competitors are people who play sports at a professional level. They take part in official games and competitions to entertain fans all over the world. In terms of education, there is no specific school degree needed to become a professional athlete, but they still put in a lot of work. Most players have trained for years and have natural talent in their sport. Their schedules can be unpredictable, with long hours of practice and travel. Although the job can be physically demanding, the compensation is worth it. Athletes and sports competitors earn an average salary of $328,830 per year, and there are about 14,930 of them in the U.S.
ALSO READ: Are the 3 Highest-Paying Dividend Stocks in the Dow Jones Worth Buying?
7. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are doctors who treat issues related to the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Their work can involve fixing injuries, treating diseases, or improving how these areas function and look. Becoming a surgeon in this field usually takes a long time. After high school, studying and training can take about 12 to 14 years. This includes college, dental school, and specialized surgical training. These medical practitioners earn an average wage of $334,310 per year or an average hourly wage of about $160.73 per hour. According to Stacker, about 4,160 oral and maxillofacial surgeons work in the U.S.
6. Anesthesiologists
Anesthesiologists are doctors who make sure patients do not feel pain during surgery. They administer medications that help people relax, fall asleep, or become numb. This will help them not to feel anything during medical procedures. Their job is critical because they monitor patients to keep them safe during operations. In order to become an anesthesiologist, you must complete four years of college, four years of medical school, and four years of special training called a residency. Ultimately, anesthesiologists earn an annual wage of $339,470 or an average pay of $163.21 hourly. The total number of anesthesiologists working in the U.S. is 33,470.
5. Dermatologists
Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in treating skin, hair, and nail problems. They usually help people with conditions like acne, eczema, and skin cancer. They perform surgeries to remove moles, warts, or tattoos. Dermatologists also offer cosmetic treatments like Botox and liposuction.
Becoming a dermatologist takes a long time. To be certified, you must attend medical school, complete a residency program, and pass a special exam. Even after that, you must keep learning throughout your career. Due to their importance, they receive a mean annual wage of $342,860 or an average hourly wage of $164.84. According to the latest statistics, there are 12,040 dermatologists in the U.S.
4. Radiologists
Radiologists are doctors who use imaging technology to help diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. Imaging technology includes X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds. A radiologist reads the scans when someone breaks a bone or has an internal problem. These scans help other doctors figure out the best treatment for the patient. It takes at least 13 years of training after high school to become a radiologist. They must pass exams to stay certified throughout their careers, but it is ultimately worth it. They earn an average annual wage of $353,960 or an average hourly wage of $170.17. There are 31,960 radiologists in the U.S., according to Stacker.
ALSO READ: Economists Say That Biden and Trump Are Not Largely To Blame for High Inflation Rate
3. Orthopedic Surgeons (Except Pediatric)
Orthopedic surgeons are doctors who treat problems with bones, muscles, and joints. They help people with broken bones, arthritis, or other conditions that cause pain or difficulty moving. Some orthopedic surgeons even specialize in removing cancerous tumors from bones. Becoming an orthopedic surgeon is not an easy feat. It takes many years. To become an orthopedic surgeon, you must complete medical school, go through five years of residency, and practice for 17 months before passing an exam to become board-certified. An orthopedic surgeon earns an average wage of $378,250 annually or an average hourly wage of $181.85. There are 14,820 orthopedic surgeons in the U.S.
2. Cardiologists
Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in treating heart diseases and problems with blood circulation. Since heart diseases are presently the leading cause of death, cardiologists play a vital role in keeping people healthy. To become a cardiologist, you will have to go through at least 10 years of training after college. You must also pass an important exam and keep learning throughout your career. Cardiologists have the number two spot on the list of the highest-paying jobs in America. They earn an average annual wage of $423,250 or a mean hourly wage of $203.49. Statistics show that there are 15,190 cardiologists in America.
1. Pediatric Surgeons
Pediatric surgeons are doctors who perform surgeries on babies, children, and teenagers. They treat severe conditions like birth defects, injuries, and life-threatening diseases. This is one of the most challenging medical jobs, requiring many years of training. There are very few pediatric surgeons in the U.S., but their work is still critical to saving young lives. They earn an average wage of $ 449,320 annually, or an average of $216.02 hourly. According to statistics, there are 1180 pediatric surgeons in America.
These careers require extensive education and training, but they also come with high salaries and the chance to help people in important ways.