17 High-Paying, Low-Stress Jobs You Can Get Without a College Degree
Discover 17 high-paying, low-stress jobs you can get without a college degree. Learn salary ranges, growth potential, and practical steps to land these careers today.
Finding a high-paying job without a college degree can feel impossible, but it’s not. Many careers offer good salaries, flexible schedules, and minimal stress. Whether you’re looking to escape the 9-to-5 grind, reduce debt, or gain financial freedom, these 17 jobs can help you achieve your goals without a diploma. In this guide, we’ll explore real opportunities, salaries, pros, cons, and actionable steps so you can start building a stress-free career today.
1. Commercial Pilot (Non-Airline)
Imagine flying planes without the stress of airline schedules. Becoming a commercial pilot for private charters, tours, or corporate flights offers excitement and high pay.
Average Salary: $86,000–$130,000
Stress Level: Low to moderate
Pro Tip: Start with a flight school and consider regional or charter work first.
2. Real Estate Broker
Ever wondered how some people make six figures by selling homes? Real estate allows flexibility and high earnings with minimal formal education.
Average Salary: $50,000–$120,000+
Stress Level: Low if you manage your clients well
Callout: Success depends heavily on networking and local market knowledge.
3. Elevator Installer and Repairer
If you like hands-on work and job security, this is perfect. Elevator technicians are always in demand.
Average Salary: $80,000–$100,000
Stress Level: Low
Pro Tip: Apprenticeships are common paths; union jobs offer excellent benefits.
4. Web Developer
You can build websites and apps from home without a degree. Coding skills are in high demand.
Average Salary: $70,000–$100,000
Stress Level: Low to moderate
Example: Many freelancers earn six figures by specializing in niche CMS platforms like Shopify or WordPress.
5. Computer Support Specialist
Solving tech problems for companies or customers can be lucrative without formal degrees.
Average Salary: $50,000–$75,000
Stress Level: Low
Pro Tip: Certifications like CompTIA A+ or Microsoft Certified Professional boost credibility.
6. Freelance Writer or Copywriter
Love writing? Many businesses pay top dollar for content creation and marketing copy.
Average Salary: $40,000–$100,000+
Stress Level: Low
Example: A freelance writer for marketing agencies can work remotely and set their own schedule.
7. Electrician
Electricians enjoy job stability, flexible schedules, and high pay.
Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000
Stress Level: Low to moderate
Pro Tip: Join an apprenticeship program; union membership often provides extra perks.
8. HVAC Technician
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning work is always needed, even in recession periods.
Average Salary: $50,000–$80,000
Stress Level: Low
Warning: Jobs may involve some physical labor and occasional emergency calls.
9. Commercial Diver
If water work excites you, commercial diving pays well with unique experiences.
Average Salary: $60,000–$100,000
Stress Level: Low to moderate
Pro Tip: Certification from a commercial diving school is required.
10. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygiene combines patient care with a predictable schedule.
Average Salary: $70,000–$90,000
Stress Level: Low
Example: Hygienists often work 30-hour weeks with weekends off.
11. Voice Actor
If you have a unique or versatile voice, you can land gigs for commercials, video games, or audiobooks.
Average Salary: $50,000–$100,000+
Stress Level: Low
Pro Tip: Home studios make remote work possible. Networking is key.
12. Massage Therapist
Helping people relax can also be financially rewarding.
Average Salary: $40,000–$70,000
Stress Level: Low
Warning: Physical stamina is necessary for long sessions.
13. Solar Photovoltaic Installer
As green energy grows, installers are in demand with great pay and minimal stress.
Average Salary: $50,000–$80,000
Stress Level: Low
Pro Tip: Short-term training programs are widely available.
14. Plumber
Plumbers are always needed, offering both flexibility and strong earnings.
Average Salary: $55,000–$90,000
Stress Level: Low
Pro Tip: Apprenticeships help you start earning while learning.
15. Commercial Photographer
Turn creativity into income. Photography can range from weddings to corporate events.
Average Salary: $40,000–$85,000+
Stress Level: Low
Pro Tip: A strong portfolio and social media presence drive clients.
16. Truck Driver (Long-Haul)
If you like hitting the road, truck driving pays well and offers independence.
Average Salary: $45,000–$80,000
Stress Level: Low to moderate
Pro Tip: Specialized freight (hazmat, oversized loads) can increase pay significantly.
17. Property Manager
Managing rental properties combines organization with steady income.
Average Salary: $50,000–$85,000
Stress Level: Low
Callout: Handling tenants can be tricky; strong communication skills help.
Comparison Table: Quick Overview
| Job | Avg. Salary | Stress Level | Education Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $86k–$130k | Low | Flight school | Private charters best start |
| Real Estate Broker | $50k–$120k | Low | License | Networking crucial |
| Elevator Installer | $80k–$100k | Low | Apprenticeship | Union perks |
| Web Developer | $70k–$100k | Low | Self-taught/cert | Freelance possible |
| Computer Support | $50k–$75k | Low | Certs optional | Entry-level IT |
| Freelance Writer | $40k–$100k+ | Low | None | Portfolio essential |
| Electrician | $60k–$90k | Low | Apprenticeship | Union advantage |
| HVAC Tech | $50k–$80k | Low | Training | Emergency calls possible |
| Commercial Diver | $60k–$100k | Low | Cert | Niche career |
| Dental Hygienist | $70k–$90k | Low | Diploma | Short work weeks |
| Voice Actor | $50k–$100k+ | Low | None | Home studio helpful |
| Massage Therapist | $40k–$70k | Low | Cert | Physically demanding |
| Solar Installer | $50k–$80k | Low | Training | Green energy growth |
| Plumber | $55k–$90k | Low | Apprenticeship | High demand |
| Photographer | $40k–$85k+ | Low | None | Portfolio key |
| Truck Driver | $45k–$80k | Low | CDL | Specialized freight boosts pay |
| Property Manager | $50k–$85k | Low | None | Tenant skills crucial |
Step-by-Step Checklist to Land a Low-Stress, High-Paying Job
- Identify your interests and skills.
- Research local job demand and pay ranges.
- Choose a training program, certification, or apprenticeship if needed.
- Build a portfolio or practical experience.
- Network with professionals in the industry.
- Apply to multiple positions while continuing skill development.
- Negotiate salary and benefits confidently.
- Track progress and expand expertise for higher earnings.
FAQ
Q1: Can I earn a six-figure salary without a college degree?
Yes, jobs like commercial pilot, real estate broker, or web developer often pay six figures with the right skills and experience.
Q2: Which low-stress jobs have the highest growth potential?
Web development, HVAC technician, and solar installation have high growth potential due to increasing demand.
Q3: Are certifications necessary for these careers?
Not always, but certifications or licenses can significantly boost credibility and salary potential.
Q4: Can I work remotely in a high-paying job without a degree?
Yes, careers like web developer, freelance writer, voice actor, and computer support often allow remote work.
Q5: How quickly can I start earning in these fields?
Some jobs like truck driving or HVAC technician allow you to start within months of training; others may require longer apprenticeships.