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People tend to think of vocational jobs — which require special skills and training, but not necessarily a college degree — as paying less than careers that call for higher education. But there are plenty of vocational jobs, in a wide range of fields, that can provide a competitive paycheck. And those jobs can be both personally rewarding and vital to the economy.

If you aren’t sure college is in your future — because of the cost, the time commitment, or the desire to pursue a skilled job for which you have a passion — read on to learn more about which vocational jobs are among the highest paying.

What Is a Vocational Job?

Vocational occupations generally require using specific skills that may be learned with hands-on training and/or classroom instruction — through an apprenticeship, for example, or at a vocational school or community college.

People may assume vocational jobs are mostly manual labor (think plumbers or machine operators), but that isn’t always the case. Many vocational jobs are done in an office setting, or in a hospital, airport, or school. And increasingly these jobs can require serious technical skills. So even though a vocational job won’t require a degree, workers may have to earn certain licenses or certifications to prove their proficiency, find employment, or advance in their career.

Reasons for Applying for a Vocational Job

If you look up the word “vocation” in the dictionary, you’ll see that it’s sometimes used to describe a strong desire or “calling” to do a certain kind of work. And for workers in many vocational careers — bakers, hair stylists, carpenters, landscapers — the work they do is truly their passion.

But there are other reasons why workers might pursue a vocational job, including:

Eagerness to Enter the Workforce

Because a vocational job doesn’t require a four-year degree, workers can get a head start on life:

•   Get into the labor force faster.

•   Start earning a competitive salary or hourly wage.

•   Begin saving and investing money.

Whatever your salary, you can use online tools that take the guesswork out of tracking your spending.

Avoid Heavy Student Debt

Vocational school costs less than a four-year college, which can mean spending less upfront and graduating with no loans or lower student loan payments.

Follow in Someone’s Footsteps

If the family business is HVAC repair, a bakery, or salon, it might have been a goal since childhood to lean into that legacy.

A Less-Traditional Path

Some extremely successful entrepreneurs, including tech executives like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, built their empires without earning a college degree. A college education can be a plus, but it isn’t a must for everyone.

Job Security

There likely will always be plumbers, auto mechanics, electricians, and cooks. And those aren’t the only vocational jobs that offer stability and competitive pay. Check out the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ current list of the “Fastest Growing Occupations,” which projects job growth to 2034. You’ll see wind turbine service technicians, occupational therapy assistants, solar panel installers, and several other vocational careers.

Recommended: The Highest-Paying Jobs in Every State

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Vocational Job

Besides saving money and time on a four-year degree, there are other positives to pursuing a vocational career. Here are some to consider:

•   Unlike a career that requires a bachelor’s degree or higher, you probably won’t have to spend time studying material unrelated to the job you want.

•   Even while you’re in training, you’ll be making contacts that can help you in your career.

•   Many vocational jobs are stable and in high demand.

But there are some downsides to training for a vocational job:

•   If your education or training is too narrow in scope, you may have to go back to school if you decide to transition to a new job.

•   Your vocational program may not qualify for some types of federal financial aid.

•   Specialized careers often require continuing education to update skills and renew certifications.

Tips for Finding Vocational Jobs

If you think a vocational job might be right for you, here are some steps to consider as you get started:

Find a Mentor

Ask someone who is doing the job you’re interested in how they got started. They may be able to steer you toward a good training program, apprenticeship, or even a job.

Use Connections Made During Training

If you attend a vocational school, you likely will have access to networking events, career fairs, and job placement assistance. (Some programs offer lifetime placement assistance to their graduates.) Apprenticeships, certification courses, and even high school vocational programs may also offer opportunities to connect with potential employers.

Consider Enrolling in Job Corps

Job Corps is a free federal program that offers education, on-the-job training, and career assistance for young adults (ages 16 to 24). Career opportunities are available in a variety of fields, including automotive repair, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, renewable resources, health care, and homeland security.

Check Employment Sites and Job Boards

Many popular job boards include listings for apprenticeships and vocational jobs, as well as information on how to begin your job search.

22 High-Paying Trade Vocational Jobs in 2025

The money you can earn in any vocational job will vary depending on several factors:

•  Education and training

•  Certifications and credentials

•  Experience

•  Job difficulty

•  How much work you’re willing to put in

With that in mind, here are some high-paying vocational jobs to consider in 2025. (Average wages and job growth outlook are from Bureau of Labor Statistics data.)

1. Air Traffic Controller

Median Annual Salary: $147,740

Job Description: Coordinate the safe movement of various aircraft as they arrive and depart the airport.

Duties May Include: Using computers, radar, and visual references to direct air and ground traffic. Monitoring weather conditions. Alerting pilots to potential emergencies.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree plus training program

Job Outlook: 1% (little or no change)

Getting Started: Air traffic controllers typically earn an associate degree from an Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. Controllers also must meet several Federal Aviation Association (FAA) requirements, complete training at the FAA Academy, and obtain FAA certification.

2. Commercial Pilot

Median Annual Salary: $142,960

Job Description: Pilot a plane or other aircraft for a business, individual, or organization.

Duties May Include: Navigating and flying planes, helicopters, or other aircraft. Managing flight crew and interacting with ground crew. Assisting in maintenance and recordkeeping. Interacting with passengers.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Varies by employer

Job Outlook: 4% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: To get a commercial pilot certificate, applicants must meet federal requirements for age and flight hours. They also must pass a physical exam, including a vision test. And they must earn the FAA-issued certificates and ratings required for their job. For more on commercial pilot requirements, see our guide to paying for flight school.

3. Nuclear Technician

Median Annual Salary: $99,690

Job Description: Assist physicists, engineers, and others doing nuclear research and nuclear energy production.

Duties May Include: Using computers and other equipment to monitor and help operate nuclear reactors.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 3% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: Many community colleges and technical institutes have associate degree programs in nuclear science, nuclear technology, or related fields. The amount of on-the-job training required to become a nuclear technician varies from one employer to the next and may be based on previous experience and education. Technicians often are expected to update their training throughout their career. Several certification programs are available.

4. Elevator and Escalator Mechanic

Median Annual Salary: $104,860

Job Description: Install and repair elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and related equipment.

Duties May Include: Testing, maintaining, and repairing electrical lines and control systems. Keeping inspection records.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 5% (faster than average)

Getting Started: This work, which is both technical and physical, requires participating in an apprenticeship program through a union, employer, or industry association. In many states, you must be licensed.

5. Radiation Therapist

Median Annual Salary: $110,820

Job Description: Use radiation equipment to treat cancer patients, typically in a hospital, doctor’s office, or outpatient center.

Duties May Include: Explaining treatment plans, treating and monitoring patients, and updating records.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 2% (slower than average)

Getting Started: Accredited associate degree programs typically offer both classroom and hands-on training. Most states require some type of licensing or certification.

6. Dental Hygienist

Median Annual Salary: $93,890

Job Description: Provide screenings, treatment, and preventive care for oral diseases.

Duties May Include: Taking X-rays, cleaning teeth, advising patients about good oral hygiene, keeping records.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 7% (much faster than average)

Getting Started: Look for a dental hygiene degree program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, which should offer both classroom and clinical education. To become certified as a Licensed Dental Hygienist (LDH), you must also pass any state-required licensure exams.

7. MRI Technologist

Median Annual Salary: $91,020

Job Description: MRI technologists produce diagnostic images for patients at health-care facilities.

Duties May Include: Working with physicians and patients to get requested diagnostic images using an MRI scanner.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 5% (faster than average)

Getting Started: Some states require MRI techs to complete an accredited training program before they can be licensed. Accredited MRI programs typically require applicants to have an associate degree for acceptance. If you’re heading to school with this job in mind, you may want to focus on anatomy, biology, and other health-related courses.

8. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

Median Annual Salary: $80,780

Job Description: Mechanics and technicians work in hangars, repair stations, and at airfields, repairing and maintaining aircraft and equipment.

Duties May Include: Diagnosing problems, repairing malfunctioning systems, installing new equipment.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Varies by employer

Job Outlook: 5% (faster than average)

Getting Started: Mechanics and technicians typically attend an FAA-approved aviation school, but some may gain their skills while in the military or on the job. You don’t have to have a degree, but you must be FAA-certified to work on aircraft.

9. Wholesale or Manufacturing Sales Representative

Median Annual Salary: $81,740

Job Description: Sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to a variety of businesses and other organizations, including government agencies.

Duties May Include: Working with clients in person and remotely to meet sales quotas and ensure quality customer service. Many sales representatives are given a specific geographical territory to cover.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Can vary depending on what’s being sold. Some products may require more technical knowledge than others

Job Outlook: 1% (slower than average)

Getting Started: Companies may offer a formal training program for sales employees that can include learning about all aspects of the product, from manufacturing to distribution. Certification and continuing education may be required.

10. Occupational Therapy Assistant

Median Annual Salary: $68,540

Job Description: Help patients work on skills needed for daily living and working.

Duties May Include: Working with therapists and patients to regain or improve basic life skills, such as getting up from a bed or chair, and walking. The job requires physical strength, patience, and good communication skills.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 18% (much faster than average)

Getting Started: Occupational therapy assistants typically must obtain an associate degree from an accredited program that includes both academic study and field work. Most states require licensure.

11. Electrician

Median Annual Salary: $69,630

Job Description: Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems for businesses and homeowners.

Duties May Include: Problem solving when electrical systems aren’t working properly, reading blueprints, laying wire, and connecting fixtures.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 9% (much faster than average)

Getting Started: This job can require both physical and technical ability. Some electricians attend a vocational program and then move on to an apprenticeship. Others may learn their skills in the military, while many go straight to a lengthy (four to five years) apprenticeship. Most states require a license to do this type of work.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

12. Plumber

Median Annual Salary: $69,940

Job Description: Plumbers install, repair, and replace pipes and fixtures in homes and buildings.

Duties May Include: Knowing building codes and mastering everything from new builds to regular maintenance and emergency fixes.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 4% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: Plumbers typically learn their trade through an apprenticeship or vocational program. Most states have licensing requirements.

13. Civil Engineering Technologist / Technician

Median Annual Salary: $68,450

Job Description: Help plan, design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects, including roads, railroads, bridges, and dams.

Duties May Include: Working in an office and in the field, civil engineering technicians and technologists assist in collecting and analyzing project data, preparing reports, designing projects, and monitoring project progress.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 2% (slower than average)

Getting Started: Many vocational schools offer classes in engineering, design, computer software, and other areas related to this career. Look for a program that’s been accredited by the Board for Engineering and Technology.

14. Paralegal or Legal Assistant

Median Annual Salary: $66,510

Job Description: Serve as support staff for attorneys.

Duties May Include: Researching cases, typing, communicating with attorneys and clients, organizing files.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Associate degree

Job Outlook: 0% (little or no change)

Getting Started: You may want to start by earning an associate degree in paralegal studies from a program approved by the American Bar Association. Some employers may offer on-the-job training. Though it isn’t required, some paralegal organizations offer paralegal certifications to students who pass an exam.

15. Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technician

Median Annual Salary: $64,220

Job Description: Operate various types of equipment for media programs.

Duties May Include: Setting up and testing electrical equipment. Knowing industry codes and standards. Communicating with clients about their specific needs. Continuing education and certification may be required.

Entry Level Education Requirements: Requirements vary; some employers may require an associate or bachelor’s degree

Job Outlook: 1% (slower than average)

Getting Started: Because this is a technical job utilizing equipment that is constantly changing, it can be useful to enroll in a targeted vocational or community college program. There also are voluntary certification / credentialing programs that can help with advancement.

Recommended: What Is a Good Entry-Level Salary?

16. Auto Service Technician or Mechanic

Median Annual Salary: $55,260

Job Description: Inspect, maintain, and repair cars, trucks, and other vehicles.

Duties May Include: Communicating with customers. Using diagnostic equipment and experience to monitor and troubleshoot a variety of problems. Repairing and replacing car components. Record keeping.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 4% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: Although it isn’t always required, many auto service technicians and mechanics complete a vocational or associate degree program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Certificate programs in specific automotive repair categories are also available. Many employers require service technicians to become certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

17. Medical Records Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $55,970

Job Description: Compile and maintain patient files for a doctor’s office, hospital, clinic, etc.

Duties May Include: Managing patient charts and records for billing and other purposes. Preparing billing statements. Requesting information from nurses, doctors, and other sources to keep files updated.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 7% (much faster than average)

Getting Started: Employers may provide on-the-job training for entry-level positions, but advanced training and courses in medical terminology, electronic health records, and medical billing may be needed for more complex duties. Employers may expect candidates to complete one or more certifications.

18. HVAC Installer / Mechanic

Median Annual Salary: $62,690

Job Description: Install and repair heating and air-conditioning systems in homes and buildings.

Duties May Include: Assembling, installing, and fixing HVAC systems.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 8% (much faster than average)

Getting Started: Many HVAC technicians receive instruction from a vocational school or a community college. Programs typically take six months to two years to complete and can lead to certification or an associate degree. Some techs learn their trade through an apprenticeship or years on the job. Some states require technicians to be licensed, and the Environmental Protection Agency requires all who buy, handle, or work with refrigerants to be certified in proper handling.

19. Tractor Trailer Driver

Median Annual Salary: $58,400

Job Description: Long-haul truck drivers transport goods across the country.

Duties May Include: Using GPS and maps to plan a safe and efficient delivery route. Ensuring the tractor trailer is well maintained. Driving routes that require spending several days away from home. Navigating busy highways, backroads, and crowded city streets.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, plus training course

Job Outlook: 4% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: Long-haul truck drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which could require passing a knowledge test and a driving test. Professional driving instruction is required to be a long-haul driver, so you’ll have to sign up with a private truck-driving school or community college program. Drivers must maintain a clean driving record and pass a physical exam every two years. They also must submit to random drug and alcohol testing.

20. Carpenter

Median Annual Salary: $64,040

Job Description: Design, build, install, and repair structures made from wood and other materials.

Duties May Include: Carpenters might do anything from building kitchen cabinets to contributing to major infrastructure projects. They must be able read blueprints, understand building code requirements, and do hands-on construction work.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school degree or equivalent

Job Outlook: 4% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: Most carpenters learn through an apprenticeship or on-the-job from experienced tradespeople. They may start out in other construction jobs before moving into carpentry. All carpenters are required to pass a safety course administered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

21. Licensed Practical Nurse

Median Annual Salary: $64,150

Job Description: LPNs provide basic medical care for patients under the supervision of physicians and registered nurses.

Duties May Include: Monitoring patient health, providing medical care and comfort, and record-keeping.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, plus training program

Job Outlook: 3% (as fast as average)

Getting Started: LPNs must finish a state-approved educational program that can take a year or longer to complete, and they must be licensed.

22. Solar Panel Installer

Median Annual Salary: $57,380

Job Description: Solar panel installers (also known as solar photovoltaic installers) assemble and install solar panels on homes and other structures.

Duties May Include: Setting up, troubleshooting, and maintaining solar panels. Connecting panels to the grid.

Entry Level Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent

Job Outlook: 42% (much faster than average)

Getting Started: Some solar panel installers attend courses at a community college or vocational school. Others learn through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. Licensing requirements vary by state.

The Takeaway

Vocational jobs can offer a competitive paycheck and an opportunity to use your skills to do something you’re interested in — or even passionate about. Another plus: The upfront education costs and time commitment can be significantly less than for a four-year or advanced degree.

Choosing a career that’s fulfilling, secure, and pays well can be a significant step toward achieving the life you want. Of course, it’s also important to develop healthy financial habits, such as building a budget you can stick to, paying your bills on time, and monitoring your credit score.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What is the best trade to learn in 2025?

Some of the best-paying and in-demand vocational careers for 2025 are also among the most challenging and fulfilling. They include jobs in transportation, construction, and health care.

What is the highest-paying vocational job?

Air traffic controllers are among the highest paid workers with vocational jobs.

What is the easiest high-paying trade?

Many high-paying vocational jobs require high-level technical skills, good communication skills, and/or physical strength and endurance. What can make any job easier is if the person doing it is good at it and feels fulfilled. Many vocational jobs have the potential to check those boxes.

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Photo credit: iStock/alvarez

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Becoming a surgeon requires committing to many years of school and putting in countless clinical hours. The good news is that all the time and hard work can lead to a fulfilling career that pays well. The mean annual pay for general surgeons (excluding specialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, oral, and maxillofacial surgeons) in the U.S. as of May 2024 is $371,280, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

It’s important to remember that this is just the average salary. Where a surgeon lives, the type of surgery specialty they take on, and a host of other factors can influence how much they can earn. Keep reading for more insight into how much surgeons make.

What Are Surgeons?

A surgeon is a medical professional who operates on patients to treat injuries (such as broken bones), diseases (like cancerous tumors), and deformities (such as cleft palates). A surgeon can have an M.D. (Medical Doctor) or D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree.

A surgeon doesn’t only perform operations, however. These specialists are also responsible for the preoperative diagnosis of the patient and for providing the patient with postoperative surgical care and treatment. The surgeon is also looked upon as the leader of the surgical team.

Surgeons can typically expect to work long days, primarily in person, so this type of job is probably not a good fit for anyone looking for a work-from-home job. However, surgeons can work in a variety of different settings. These include:

•   Private practice

•   Academic medicine

•   Institutional practice

•   Hospitals

•   Ambulatory surgery settings

•   Government service programs

How Much Does a Surgeon Make Starting Out?

General surgeons can earn an impressive entry-level salary, averaging $339,174, according to ZipRecruiter. Most earn between $303,000 and $400,000.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

What is the Average Salary for a Surgeon?

You can measure how much a surgeon makes by looking at both their average hourly rate and annual salary. The national average hourly salary for a surgeon is $178.50, while the average annual pay for a surgeon in the U.S. is $371,280.

The type of specialty a surgeon chooses to practice can impact how much they earn. What surgical specialty makes the most? Let’s take a quick glance at the average annual wages for surgeons with varying specialties:

•   Orthopedic surgeon: $365,060

•   Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: $360,240

•   Pediatric surgeon: $450,810

•   Cardiothoracic surgeon:$367,474

•   Plastic surgeon: $356,489

•   Mohs surgeon: $345,926

What Is the Average Surgeon Salary by State?

How much money a surgeon makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much general surgeons make per year, on average, by state, according to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, as of 2024 (the most recent data available). These statistics exclude specialties such as orthopedic, pediatric, oral, and maxillofacial surgeons. Please note that data is not available for all states.

State	Annual Salary
Arizona	$432,580
California	$308,430
Colorado	$311,400
Georgia	$449,500
Illinois	$352,040
Indiana	$443,860
Iowa	$394,050
Louisiana	$544,450
Maine	$424,260
Maryland	$349,250
Massachusetts	$362,300
Michigan	$498,340
Minnesota	$373,920
New Hampshire	$381,510
New Mexico	$400,000
New York	$262,640
North Carolina	$398,550
North Dakota	$556,400
Ohio	$505,370
South Carolina	$358,310
Tennessee	$366,430
Texas	$298,900
Vermont	$403,630
Virginia	$321,470
Washington	$354,640
West Virginia	$371,230
Wisconsin	$478,880
Wyoming	$371,800

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Surgeon Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Surgeons typically work in clinical settings, such as physicians’ offices and hospitals, including academic hospitals associated with residency programs and medical schools.

The average annual salary for a surgeon is $371,280, but surgeons can actually earn a lot more when you look at their total compensation package including benefits.

Because surgeons often work full-time for a specific hospital, company, or organization, prospective surgeons can expect to find a job that offers them the standard suite of employee benefits, including healthcare, paid vacation, vision and dental insurance, and a retirement plan.

In addition to these benefits, some surgeons also receive life insurance policies, continuing medical education (CME), flexible scheduling, research and academic support, and development programs.

Pros and Cons of a Surgeon’s Salary

Becoming a surgeon takes a lot of hard work and discipline, but surgeons can also change the lives of their patients every single day and earn a substantial income at the same time. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of choosing a career as a surgeon.

Pros of Being a Surgeon

Being a surgeon offers potential benefits like:

•   Ability to help people A surgeon can help people experience less discomfort, pain, and stress, and even save their lives. Surgeons also train and mentor junior colleagues.

•   Opportunity to work as part of a team Surgeons typically collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists to provide comprehensive care to patients. (Consequently, it may not be the ideal medical specialty for someone who is naturally more of an introvert.)

•   High compensation The national average salary of surgeons is $371,280 per year but can go as high as $450,000 or more, depending on location, years of experience, certifications, and other factors. Surgeons also typically get benefits like health insurance and 401(k) plans.

•   Consistent schedule Depending on their specialty and seniority, some surgeons are able to have a regular work schedule and perform surgeries during certain hours. This can help promote a healthy work-life balance.

•   Chance to work in different environments Surgeons can work in a variety of places, including hospitals, private practices, and other medical centers. Many surgeons also have offices where they consult with patients in addition to the centers where they do surgery.

Recommended: 27 Fulfilling Jobs for Extroverts That Pay Well

Cons of Being a Surgeon

However, surgeons also face the following challenges:

•   Long and rigorous educational requirements To become a surgeon, you typically need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program, a four-year degree program at a medical school, and a three- to seven-year internship or residency program. All told, it can take 11 to 15 years of studying in school to enter the field of surgery.

•   Long hours Depending on your specialty and where you work, you may need to work long hours. Indeed, general surgeons may work 50 to 60 hours per week. In addition, some surgeons need to be on call on evenings and weekends.

•   High-pressure job Surgery generally involves a certain level of risk and surgeons are under pressure to perform procedures with no errors in order to ensure a positive outcome for their patients. Surgeons need to be able to stay calm and focused under pressure.

•   Burnout potential Depending on their specialty, some surgeons may be required to perform the same procedures each day, sometimes more than once per day. This could potentially lead to job burnout over time.

•   High education costs Going to school for all the years required to become a surgeon can be expensive. As a result, surgeons may take on a lot of student loan debt, which they’ll need to repay once they start practicing. This can lessen the average surgeon’s salary.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

Becoming a surgeon requires years of study and practice, including medical school and residencies. Those who are up for the challenge can earn a high salary, especially if they go into one of the more lucrative specialties. Since surgeons earn such a high income, they need to find a way to manage their money and use it to reach their goals.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What is the highest paying surgeon job?

Neurosurgeons, also called neurological surgeons, are the highest-paid surgeons. These doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the brain, spine, and nervous system, and can make upward of $780,000.

Do surgeons make $300k a year?

Many surgeons make $300,000 or more per year. The following specialties all earn an average salary well over $300,000: orthopedic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, and Mohs surgery.

How much do surgeons make starting out?

General surgeons just starting out average $339,174 annually, according to ZipRecruiter.

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SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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Lawyers are highly educated and command high salaries to match. How much a lawyer earns a year depends on what type of law they practice and their competence and experience.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a lawyer in May 2024 (the latest data available) was $182,750 per year, or $87.86 per hour.

Corporate lawyers who work in the private sector tend to earn more than those in the public sector (such as district attorneys or public defenders), and sole practitioners typically earn less money than lawyers at large firms.

Read on to learn more about how much a lawyer makes, where you can find top-paying jobs for lawyers, and the benefits and drawbacks of becoming a lawyer.

What Does a Lawyer Do?

Lawyers advise and represent clients on legal proceedings or transactions. They typically conduct in-depth research into law, regulations, and past rulings. They also prepare legal documents, including legal complaints, wills, and contracts.

Not an ideal job for people with social anxiety, the legal profession often requires that lawyers appear in court in support of their clients and present evidence in hearings and trials, as well as in arbitration and plea bargaining. Lawyers also counsel their clients in legal matters and suggest courses of action.

A lawyer’s exact duties will vary depending on the type of law they practice. For example, criminal defense attorneys advocate on behalf of those accused of criminal activity; family lawyers handle family-related legal issues like divorce, adoption, and child welfare; and corporate lawyers work on legal matters for businesses.

Some lawyers work for the government or in the public’s interest, and are known as public interest lawyers. Public defense attorneys, for example, represent criminal defendants who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Public interest lawyers also work for nonprofit organizations to support civil rights and social justice causes.

Other types of lawyers include:

•   Environmental lawyers

•   Bankruptcy lawyers

•   Immigration lawyers

•   Intellectual property lawyers

•   Entertainment lawyers

•   Tax lawyers

•   Personal injury lawyers

•   Estate planning lawyers


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How Much Do Starting Lawyers Make a Year?

Lawyers tend to be well paid even at the
entry level because they are highly trained. And, the more experience a lawyer gains, generally the more they can earn. According to ZipRecruiter, entry-level lawyers make $100,626 a year, on average, with a range from $47,000 or lower to $138,000 or more.

Those who choose to invest the time, money, and work into becoming a lawyer can feel relatively confident about being able to get a job when they graduate: The BLS projects an increase of 35,900 attorney jobs between 2024 and 2034, representing a 4% growth (which is about average for other occupations).

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How Much Money Does a Lawyer Make a Year on Average?

According to the BLS’s most recent data, the average salary for a lawyer in 2024 was $182,760. The best-paid 25% made $215,420 or more that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $99,760.

A lawyer working for a law firm or as in-house counsel will typically be paid with an annual salary versus an hourly wage, but the average hourly pay for a lawyer works out to be $87.86 an hour.

How much a lawyer makes, however, can vary widely depending on their experience, specialty, and location.

The highest paying legal specialties include:

•   Patent attorney

•   Intellectual property attorney

•   Trial lawyer

•   Tax attorney

•   Corporate lawyer

The cities that pay the highest lawyer salaries are:

•   San Jose, California ($314,430)

•   San Francisco, California ($275,170)

•   Los Angeles, California ($270,610)

•   Santa Rosa, California ($258,550)

•   Bridgeport, Connecticut ($238,240)

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How Much Money Does a Lawyer Make by State?

As mentioned above, how much money a lawyer makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a lawyer makes per year, on average, by state.

State	Average Annual Lawyer Salary
Alabama	$139,470
Alaska	$140,520
Arizona	$161,480
Arkansas	$134,860
California	$254,170
Colorado	$208,710
Connecticut	$188,990
Delaware	$196,880
District of Columbia	$236,700
Florida	$152,360
Georgia	$185,830
Hawaii	$121,900
Idaho	$127,340
Illinois	$177,740
Indiana	$158,270
Iowa	$124,130
Kansas	$129,530
Kentucky	$116,020
Louisiana	$128,020
Maine	$122,810
Maryland	$155,930
Massachusetts	$218,340
Michigan	$148,340
Minnesota	$157,360
Mississippi	$112,690
Missouri	$158,200
Montana	$109,190
Nebraska	$127,010
New Hampshire	$170,110
New Jersey	$186,430
New Mexico	$135,860
New York	$208,080
North Carolina	$159,830
North Dakota	$122,430
Ohio	$142,860
Oklahoma	$120,220
Oregon	$152,580
Pennsylvania	$155,050
Rhode Island	$146,240
South Carolina	$132,500
South Dakota	$129,500
Tennessee	$155,290
Texas	$162,840
Utah	$151,220
Vermont	$161,990
Virginia	$173,200
Washington	$170,650
West Virginia	$117,770
Wisconsin	$155,270
Wyoming	$133,570

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Lawyer Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

To get a job as a lawyer, you must complete an undergraduate degree and then attend law school to earn a Juris Doctor degree, or J.D. This can mean four years pursuing a bachelor’s degree, followed by three years of law school (or four years if you go to law school part time).

After graduating from law school, you’ll need to pass the multi-day bar exam for the state in which you want to practice. In addition, most states also require lawyers to keep up to date with law and take training courses throughout their career.

The hard work and financial investment can pay off, however. In addition to competitive pay, lawyers who work full time for a specific company or organization typically get a wide variety of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, flexible scheduling, and more. They may also get bonuses for cases won and coverage for the costs of bar association fees as well as training and development opportunities.

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Pros and Cons of a Lawyer’s Salary

Becoming a lawyer can be a clear path to making more than $100,000 but, as with any profession, working as a lawyer comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of this role will help you determine if you’re well-suited for this career path.

Pros of Becoming a Lawyer

•   Multiple job opportunities: As a lawyer, you have a variety of career paths, giving you the opportunity to work in an area you feel passionate about, whether that is corporate law, family law, real estate law, criminal law, or immigration law.

•   Option to start your own practice: With a law degree and significant experience, you may be able to start your own business and determine what types of clients you want to represent and how many cases you want to take on at any one given time.

•   Earn a high salary: Lawyers have the potential to earn well into six figures a year. Though you may not earn this salary right out of the gate, there is ample opportunity for career advancement and salary increases over time.

•   Stimulating and challenging work: As a lawyer, your daily duties will likely be intellectually challenging. Lawyers typically need to understand complex legal theories, form a hypothesis and create a legal strategy to benefit their clients, and argue and debate in a courtroom.

Cons of Becoming a Lawyer

•   Work can be stressful: Lawyers must meet deadlines as well as the demands of their clients. You may also come across stressful and emotionally difficult cases, which can take a psychological toll.

•   Long hours: This professional is notorious for its long hours, particular for those who are just starting out in a prestigious law practice. It’s not unusual for an associate lawyer to put in 60 to 90 hours a week each week, depending on the demands of the case they’re working on.

•   High level of student debt: In addition to a bachelor’s degree, lawyers need to pay for law school, which often comes with a high price tag. Generally, the more prestigious the school, the higher the price. Even with a high salary, new lawyers may not be able to pay off their debt for many years.

•   Today’s clients have more options: Getting clients has gotten more competitive with the rise of self-help legal websites, legal document technicians, and virtual law offices. If an individual seeks legal advice or counsel, they don’t always have to go to a lawyer for help.

The Takeaway

A law degree is a valuable credential that takes around seven years of study to achieve (including a bachelor’s degree). Lawyers can choose where they want to work and what type of law they would like to specialize in, whether it be criminal law, corporate law, environmental law, or immigration law, among other options.

The amount a lawyer makes will vary depending on their experience, the type of law they practice, and where in the country they work. According to the BLS, the highest paid lawyers earn $215,000 or more, and the lowest paid lawyers may earn $78,000 or less.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To help ensure your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a basic budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

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FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a lawyer?

Yes. Most lawyers earn over $100k a year. The average salary for a lawyer, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $182,750 per year. The best-paid lawyers, however, can earn more than $200,000 a year.

Do people like being a lawyer?

Being a lawyer can be a great career choice if you enjoy working in a fast-paced and challenging environment and have an interest in upholding laws and defending an individual’s rights. According to a recent survey by Law360 Pulse, 61% of surveyed attorneys report they are satisfied or very satisfied with their overall job.

Is it hard to get hired as a lawyer?

It’s generally not hard to find a job as a lawyer after you pass the bar exam, especially if you attended a top-rated law school, graduated in the top third of your class, and/or had strong internships and clerkships. Jobs for lawyers are expected to grow 4% between 2024 and 2034.

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