Our list of the most lucrative careers is at once surprising and not. What makes a career lucrative? Working the least amount of time for the highest income possible? Opportunities for growth and development? The answer to this question is complex and most likely encompasses all of these elements. For all of you who are fresh out of high school or at loss on which career path to choose, we would like to present you with a list we have compiled of the most lucrative careers.
No. 6 Most Lucrative Career: Physical Therapist
As out-patient care continues to develop, more and more people choose to take their health issues outside of hospital or other medical facilities. A physical therapist is the professional who help people recuperate after injuries and regain their mobility. While this career might not have one of the best starting salaries, once a therapist can open their own practice, the sky is truly the limit.
No. 5 Most Lucrative Career: Psychologist
Counselors have become increasingly popular in today’s society, with more and more people seeking the aid of a certified psychologist. The potential of this career path is immense, but a psychologist will only start making good money once he or she is able to open their own practice.
No. 4 Most Lucrative Career: Commercial Pilot
Becoming a commercial pilot is undoubtedly one of the most lucrative career paths one can choose; at least from a financial point of view. However, the training process is rather arduous and it might take several years before someone is allowed at the helm of a commercial airplane. In addition, issues such as long hours, bad weather, mechanical errors, and jet lag further increase the difficulty of this job.
No. 3 Most Lucrative Career: Doctor
Moneywise, becoming a doctor is arguably the most financially rewarding career path one can choose in the US. However, it only ranks third in our countdown due to the numerous years of training and hard work it takes in order to become a licensed physician. In addition, by the time they complete their medical studies, most people will have amassed impressive amounts of student debts. Salaries for a doctor depend on the specialty and experience in the field, but most physicians will greatly benefit financially.
No. 2 Most Lucrative Career: Dentist
Unlike other health care professionals, dentists have to spend less time in medical school, which means they can enjoy the benefits of their hard work a lot faster. The salary of a dentist largely depends on the specialty and on the structure of the organization in which he or she works. In some cases, some dentists can even make more money than doctors, especially those who open their own practice.
No. 1 Most Lucrative Career: IT Web Designer
Web designers are some of the most privileged people in today’s workforce, simply because they work in a field unlikely to be significantly influenced by economic downturns. With the advances in technology, such professionals are in high demand and their salaries aren’t too shabby either. The great thing with this career is that the starting salary is also pretty decent and web designers don’t have to worry that they will be working for years on end before starting to make a good income. Software developers and programmers are also included in this category.
If you enjoyed our list of the most lucrative careers, you’ll also like our “12 Best Job Opportunities for Economics Majors.”
