In this article, we will look at the 10 most underpaid jobs in America. We have also discussed the key giants who have been at the forefront of improving salaries for their frontline workers in another article. If you are interested in reading about that, along with a more extensive list, head straight to The 30 Most Underpaid Jobs in America.
10. Paramedics
IM Score: 48
Paramedics in the US are often considered underpaid because their job demands extensive training, high levels of responsibility, and the need to make critical decisions in life-or-death situations. Despite these pressures, many paramedics receive comparatively low salaries, especially when considering the long hours and the physical and emotional toll of their work.
9. Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners
IM Score: 51
These jobs are frequently associated with low-skill but physically demanding work, leading to lower wages. The industry’s heavy reliance on part-time or temporary positions further exacerbates the issue.
8. Farmers
IM Score: 53
The agricultural industry is frequently subject to volatile market prices and external factors like weather, which can affect yields and income unpredictably. Besides, equipment, seeds, and land costs can be high, leading to relatively narrow profit margins.
7. Social Workers
IM Score: 54
Social work typically involves emotionally taxing and complex tasks directly or indirectly, often with vulnerable populations. Moreover, since many social workers work in nonprofit or public sectors with limited resources, it also leads to lower pay scales.
6. Janitors
IM Score: 55
The low wages for janitors and cleaners can make it difficult for them to make ends meet, adding to their financial instability. The work environment also needs more safety measures and protections. Apart from their low wages, their job is generally looked down upon.
5. Firefighters
IM Score: 56
Firefighters regularly face life-threatening situations, such as fires, accidents, and medical emergencies. Despite the high level of training and certification required, their salaries may not adequately reflect the risks and responsibilities.
4. Home Health Aides
IM Score: 57
Home health aides deserve higher pay for their essential work. They provide critical care, support, and companionship to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and disabled. Their job can be physically and emotionally demanding, often requiring long hours and flexibility. A fair wage would reflect their value to healthcare and society, attract more qualified candidates, and improve job retention. To read more about caregivers, check out our article about the highest-paying countries for caregivers.
3. Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
IM Score: 58
The veterinary technologist and technician job requires extensive education and training, including earning an associate’s degree and passing a certification exam, which certainly does not translate into the salaries they deserve at any point in time. Besides, the emotionally demanding nature of the job, irregular hours, and exposure to occupational hazards like animal bites add to the fact that their jobs are considered highly underpaid.
2. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
IM Score: 59
EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) are often considered underpaid in the US because they perform physically and emotionally demanding work, respond to life-threatening emergencies, provide critical medical care, and often work in high-stress situations. Despite their vital role in saving lives, EMTs typically receive modest compensation, limited benefits, and irregular hours. They work under extreme pressure and face exposure to health risks, yet their wages often do not reflect the level of responsibility and expertise required.
1. Teachers and Instructors
IM Score: 60
Teachers earn an average salary of $66,450 in the US, which is similar to the average salary in the country. However, they are tasked with noble services like shaping the future, imparting knowledge, and instilling crucial skills in the next generation, for which they dedicate countless hours and invest in professional development. In an age where social media influencers can earn millions for trivial content, teachers receive meager compensation despite their profound impact on society. It is the most underpaid job in America.
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