Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree: Which One Pays the Most?

The question of “what’s the highest paying job” you can land without a four-year degree isn’t as straightforward as many assume. While college costs continue to rise—with the average public university tuition exceeding $11,600 annually—skilled trade careers have emerged as legitimate alternatives offering competitive compensation and strong growth prospects.

New research from Resume Genius reveals compelling data: approximately 75% of Americans now question whether a traditional degree is truly necessary for financial success. For those considering non-degree career paths, understanding which roles offer the best earning potential becomes critical.

The Reality of Six-Figure Opportunities Without a Degree

The landscape has shifted dramatically. According to the latest employment projections through 2034, nine of the top non-degree careers offer earnings potential in the six-figure range for their highest earners. These positions span critical infrastructure, renewable energy, and specialized technical fields.

Career Expert Nathan Soto notes: “The path to a six-figure salary is more accessible than many think. Employers are actively seeking skilled professionals and willing to pay premium compensation for expertise, particularly in roles that only require a high school diploma.”

Ranking the Opportunities: From Fastest Growth to Highest Pay

Wind Turbine Technician leads in growth potential with a remarkable 50% job expansion expected through 2034. Entry-level positions start around $62,580 annually, while the top 10% earn $88,090. With just 13,600 positions nationally, this emerging field offers significant advancement potential.

Solar Photovoltaic Installer follows closely with 42% projected growth through 2034. Median earnings reach $51,860, with top earners in the field making $80,150. The renewable energy sector continues to expand rapidly, creating approximately 28,600 positions.

Industrial Machinery Mechanic represents the largest opportunity by volume with 538,300 existing positions and 13% expected growth. The median salary stands at $63,510, with top performers earning $85,790. This role requires only a high school diploma.

Electrician dominates in sheer job availability with 818,700 positions across the country and 9% growth through 2034. Median compensation reaches $62,350, while the top 10% of electricians earn $106,030 annually.

Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer offers strong earning potential at $92,560 median salary, with top earners reaching $126,610. This role supports 127,400 positions and expects 7% growth, making it one of the most stable high-paying options.

Plumber, Pipefitter and Steamfitter positions occupy a substantial market with 504,500 jobs and 4% projected growth. The median salary of $62,970 can climb to $105,150 for experienced professionals—a meaningful six-figure potential.

Elevator and Escalator Technician represents the single highest-paying role on this list, with median annual earnings of $106,580 and top earners commanding $149,250. Despite only 24,200 positions nationally, the 5% expected growth indicates sustained demand for these specialized technicians.

Aircraft Avionics Equipment Mechanic and Technician requires a postsecondary nondegree credential (FAA-approved program) but delivers solid returns: $79,140 median salary with $120,080 for top performers. The field encompasses 160,800 positions with 5% expected growth.

Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator provides $75,190 in median annual earnings, with the highest earners reaching $121,200. Supporting 33,300 positions nationwide, this role expects 2% growth through 2034.

Railroad Worker rounds out the top 10 with $75,680 median salary and $100,130 for experienced workers. While job growth projects at only 1%, the 77,900 existing positions indicate stable, established opportunity.

Making Your Decision: Beyond Just the Paycheck

Employers prioritizing workforce development invest significantly in employee upskilling programs, enabling workers to earn additional certifications and develop specialized expertise. This translates directly to increased earning potential and career mobility.

Before dismissing the college route entirely, assess whether it aligns with your career goals and personal aspirations. Alternatively, exploring apprenticeship programs and technical training can provide clarity about whether a skilled trade path suits your strengths and interests.

The highest paying job for you ultimately depends on your interests, geographic location, and aptitude for technical work. What remains clear is that the traditional degree-or-nothing framework no longer reflects today’s employment reality. Skilled trades now offer accessible pathways to meaningful income and career growth—often with less educational debt and quicker entry into the workforce.