With high income skills, you can make far more than the national average and even make a six figure income with some career paths. According to the Social Security Administration, the average income in America is $51,916.27.
While there are many ways to make money with no skills, with the careers below, you can make more than the average income and even earn up to six figures. Now, there are a ton of options to choose from, and which one is best is really up to you.
The good thing about these careers is that for a lot of them you DON’T need a college degree. So if you are looking for jobs without a degree, learning these skills would be right up your alley.
Now, I know that this can be a contentious subject for many. I believe that going to college isn’t the only path to success, whatever that word means for you (success is a word that means different things to different people).
In fact, I think that putting yourself into a TON of debt is not a good thing. Sure, getting an education is a wonderful thing. And, if you want to, go for it.
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It’s certainly NOT the only option for success though. Speaking from my own experience as someone who does not have a degree, and knowing many other people who do not have a degree and have had success in every industry from IT to marketing, I can safely say that to pursue most careers a degree is not necessary.
That’s why below I have tried to include options for each career that don’t require you to go to college. Of course, with some careers, a bachelor’s degree is a requirement. You’d be surprised though by how many options there are out there though for those of us who didn’t graduate from college.
Table of Contents
What are High Income Skills?
So, what exactly are high income skills?
Well, they are basically skills that can generate a large income. If you have the ability to perform a certain skill, like coding, editing, or computer maintenance, for example, it could land you a job or even your own business that could net you a six-figure income.
Basically, if you can develop these skills, and work hard, you could really bring in a great salary.
How Much Can You Earn with High Income Skills?
Okay, so what exactly can these high-income skills earn you. Like I said above, they earn you more than the average income, which as I mentioned before, was around $51,000 in net compensation.
However, there is the possibility with many of these skills to earn a six-figure income.
Now, I want to point out something that is really important but is sometimes overlooked, and that’s the fact that none of these high-income skills are going to net you a huge income right off the bat.
Like with any career path, it takes time for you to get to a point where you will earn a large income. This isn’t a way to make money quickly, but if you put in the work, in years to come you will likely make more money.
For each job below, I have listed the salary so you can get a better picture of the amount of money you can make.
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Top High Income Skills to Learn
Below, you’ll find a list of skills that pay well. Now, for each type of skill, I’ve listed a job so that you can get a better idea of the amount of money you can earn. You’ll also notice that many of these jobs are related, so for each job, I have listed some similar jobs that you might want to try.
And as mentioned before, many are for people with high income skills without a college degree.
Here are some of the best high-income skills, along with how much money you can expect to earn.
1. Editing
- Pay range: $35,000 to $97,000 per year
Editors work in a variety of industries to ensure that any written materials are free from error and read well. As an editor, you could work on anything from books to blog posts to articles.
Job requirements
An editor’s main job is to edit written content and improve it. They will identify not only errors within the work but also ways to improve the flow and structure of a piece. Editors need to have great attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.
Where to learn it
Many editor jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree in journalism or English, and a couple years of writing experience as well. That being said, it is possible to find work as an editor without a degree. You’ll just need to get some experience and develop your skills.
You’ll need strong writing and proofreading skills.
I picked up a little editing work years ago through a writing job I had (although editing is not my favorite task, and I much prefer writing), and I don’t have a degree. So it can be done. I would recommend working on your writing skills and taking some free grammar courses online of which there are many.
Then, I would recommend you check out some editing courses, like this one from Coursera.org or these ones from Reedsy.
Also, don’t forget to check out our list of the best online proofreading jobs where you can earn up to $66,000 editing.
Some schools also offer online editing courses, like the University of Chicago Graham School.
Related skills
- Proofreading
- Legal Proofreading
- Copyediting
2. Real estate agent
- Pay range: $35,000 to $130,000 per year.
Another job to try is being a real estate agent. Working in real estate pays pretty well, and it’s a high-income skill that doesn’t require you to have a degree.
Job requirements
Real estate agents help people to buy, sell, or rent a property. This can include homes, land, and office buildings. Real estate agents guide people through every step of the way from searching for properties to closing the deal.
Where to learn it
Okay, so what’s great about getting into the real estate field is that you don’t need a degree.
Becoming a real estate agent will require you to get a state license. Each state has its own requirements for earning a real estate license, so do check the rules for your state.
Aside from that, you usually only need a high school diploma and to pass a background check. Kaplan has a great guide on how to become a real estate agent, which you can check out here.
Related skills
- Property manager
- Real estate broker
- Real estate appraiser
3. Plumber
- Pay range: $36,000 to $97,000 a year
Many trade professions pay well, and plumbing is one of them. If you want to work with your hands, rather than behind a desk, then being a plumber may be a great career for you. The best part is that you don’t need a degree to get into this career either.
Job requirements
It’s a plumber’s job to install, and repair water, gas, and other piping systems. It’s their job to install things like toilets, bathtubs, water heaters, and dishwashers. Plumbers work in a variety of settings, such as in people’s homes, businesses, and factories.
Where to learn it
As I discussed earlier, if you want to become a plumber, you won’t need to get a bachelor’s degree. You can become a plumber through an apprenticeship.
Related skills
- Boilermaker
- Heating
- Air conditioning & refrigeration mechanic and installer
- Electrician
- Construction and building inspector
4. Project management
- Pay range: $57,000 to $136,000 per year
Project managers are responsible for managing projects for organizations. They plan, organize, and direct these projects, and ensure that they are completed on time and within budget.
Job requirements
Project managers need to have excellent management skills and communication skills.
They work in a variety of industries from IT to construction. And, they are responsible for things like planning and designating project resources, preparing budgets, monitoring progress, and keeping stakeholders informed along the way.
Where to learn it
Many positions require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree in either business or management. Some people also get a Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification from the Project Management Institute.
It is difficult to land a role as a project manager if you don’t have a degree – although it’s not impossible.
Building a great work history in a management job can be a good option if you don’t have a degree. And work experience in the field the job is for is ideal. So, experience in the IT sector will be ideal if you plan to work as a project manager for an IT project. You can also get the project manager certification, the PMP, which I mentioned above, without having a degree.
Related skills
- Operations manager
- Consultant
- Product manager
5. Software development
- Pay range: $68,000 to $140,000 per year
Since tech is dominating our lives more than ever before, working in the software development industry is a great choice.
Job requirements
Software developers develop, design, and build computer programs. This can include apps for mobile or desktop use or building operating systems, for example. It’s their job to analyze user’s needs, and then design and develop software that meets those needs.
Where to learn it
Software developers usually have a bachelor’s degree in computer or internet technology or a related field.
There are, however, ways that you can get into this field without a degree. And the International Business Times has a guide on all about how to do it. Also, you should definitely check out this article from someone who actually became a developer without a computer science degree.
Related skills
- Database administrator
- Computer programmer
- Software engineer
- Web developer
6. Insurance agent
- Pay range: $27,000 to $91,000 per year
Okay, so if you’re interested in sales, then you might want to consider working as an insurance agent. While not quite stretching into the six figures, insurance agents earn a good income that can be far above the average American salary.
Job requirements
Insurance agents sell insurance policies to clients. They explain a variety of insurance policies to clients and help them to choose plans that suit them.
Where to learn it
You do not need a degree to become an insurance sales agent. Instead, you just need to have a high school diploma or GED and be licensed in the state where you plan to work.
The licensing requirements differ from state to state. Generally, you will need to take a course and pass your state’s licensing exam. You may also need different licenses if you plan to sell different types of insurance. So, for example, if you want to sell property insurance and health insurance, then you may need two different licenses.
You also need to be confident, because you may have to cold call prospective customers, and you need to be able to maintain your composure.
Related skills
- Advertising sales agent
- Personal financial advisor
7. Lawyer
Pay range: $59,000 to $252,000 per year
When we think of high paying jobs, lawyer comes to mind, right? And, there’ a good reason for that. Lawyers in pretty much every field get paid well. There are lots of different types of law that can be practiced, like criminal law, corporate law, and family law just to name a few.
Job requirements
Lawyers advise and represent individuals, businesses and government agencies with legal issues and also disputes. They work in private legal offices, corporate legal offices, or federal, local, and state governments. Lawyers tend to put in a lot of hours, with most working fulltime and others working more than 40 hours each week.
Where to learn it
This is one job where a degree is definitely a requirement. In order to be a lawyer, you must have a law degree and have passed the state’s written bar examination.
Related skills
- Paralegal
- Adjudicator
- Law clerk
- Legal secretary
- Legal assistant
- Mediator
- Law firm administrator
8. Accounting
- Pay range: $40,000 to $80,000 per year
Another great skill to learn is accounting. Being an accountant can earn you up to $80,000 per year, which at $30,000 over the national average, is a great amount, right?
Job requirements
Accountants are responsible for lots of different tasks that involve preparing and maintaining financial records.
Tasks can include things like assisting in the preparation of financial reports like financial statements, and budget performance, preparing tax returns, maintaining financial records, and ensuring that statements are accurate. If you enjoy math, then I would say that accounting could be a good skill for you to learn.
Where to learn it
Generally, accounts have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Many also have a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential which you can get by passing an exam and completing a minimum number of college coursework hours. Having accounting or finance experience is also useful for landing jobs. While a degree isn’t required for all accounting-related jobs, if you want to be a CPA, a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is required.
Related skills
- Tax preparer
- Bookkeeper
9. Marketing management
- Pay range: $60,000 to $180,000 per year
If a career in sales sounds like it could be for you, then you should definitely consider working as a marketing manager.
Job requirements
Marketing managers work on marketing strategies and campaigns. It’s their job to attract more customers to buy from the company and raise brand awareness. They help to manage the promotion of a brand or the product or services that it sells. They raise brand awareness through marketing campaigns. Marketing managers oversee an organization’s marketing department or a small marketing team.
Where to learn it
To become a marketing manager, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, communications, or another similar field.
Related skills
- Sales manager
- Public relations manager
10. Transcriptionist
- Pay range: $26,000 to $73,000 per year
If you want to learn a high paying skill without needing a degree, then you might want to look into working as a transcriptionist. Transcriptionists listen to audio or video recordings and then type out, or transcribe, what they hear.
Job requirements
Aside from listening to audio and video recordings, and translating them into written documents, transcriptionists may also need to ensure that they create coherent documents. So, they may need to do things like expanding on sentence fragments so that they can create something that’s readable. Some transcriptions will transcribe live meetings.
Where to learn it
Thankfully, a degree isn’t required for many transcription jobs. Most of the time, you just need to have excellent typing skills. There are lots of free transcription tests you can take online to sharpen your skills, like those on offer from Go Transcript.
You can actually find a lot of jobs online, with sites like:
Also, you could consider getting a transcription certificate.
Related skills
- Closed captioning
11. Digital marketing manager
- Pay range: $81,000 to $182,000 per year
Being a digital marketing manager involves working on and overseeing online marketing campaigns.
Job requirements
A digital marketing manager will work on online marketing campaigns, so this can include social media campaigns, email marketing, and digital advertising. It’s their job to increase brand awareness and bring in new customers.
Where to learn it
In order to be a digital marketing manager, you generally need to have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field. Also, you could earn a degree in a variety of relevant disciplines like business administration, information technology, and web design.
Now, while most digital marketing manger jobs do require you to have a degree, there are still lots of opportunities within the field of digital marketing that don’t require you to have a degree. So, please check out the careers in the “Related Skills” section below.
Related skills
- Social media marketing
- SEO professional
- Email marketer
- Content manager
12. Copywriting
- Pay range: $37,000 to $90,000 per year
Have a penchant for writing? Like sales too? Then copywriting could be the career choice for you and the best part is that you don’t even need a degree to get into the field.
Job requirements
Copywriters create copy that’s designed to sell products. They craft things like newsletters, product descriptions, digital ads, radio scripts, and landing pages. Unlike a content writer who, generally speaking, writes articles to inform the reader, the goal of a copywriter is to encourage the reader to purchase a product or service.
Where to learn it
While many copywriting degrees require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or a related field, a degree is certainly NOT required for all jobs. As long as you can show that you have great skills and put together an awesome portfolio of samples, you can easily find work without a degree.
If you’re looking to get into this career, make sure you check out Copyblogger as it offers a free book and a ton of articles on copywriting.
Some copywriters are hired by companies as employees, but many work on a freelance basis. You can easily find freelance copywriting jobs on the following sites:
Related skills
- Freelance Writing
13. Translating
- Pay range: $30,000 to $83,000 per year
If you can speak more than one language, then working as a translator could be the perfect career for you.
Job requirements
Translators translate the written word from one language into another. Now, translators need to be able to create a translation that reads as if it were the original – so it should sound natural in the language that it’s translated into.
This means that the translator needs to be able to write sentences that flow as well as they did in the original and consider any slang terms, cultural references, and other expressions that may not translate literally. They need to do this all while keeping the ideas and facts from the original content accurate.
Where to learn it
This is another high-income skill that doesn’t require you to have a degree to get started. All you need to become a translator is to be fluent in at least two languages.
You can get hired by a company as an employee or work as a freelance translator. We have a post all about online translation job where we list 30 online translation jobs.
Sure, some translator jobs will require you to have a bachelor’s degree, but many don’t’. Really the most important skill you’ll need is to be able to speak, read, and write fluently in more than one language.
Related skills
- Interpreter
14. Data analysis
- Pay range: $45,000 to $104,000
Data analysis is an excellent skill to have with data analysts earning way over the average salary and sometimes even a six-figure income.
Job requirements
A data analyst analyzes data in order to gain insight into a business, or other organization. Data analysts collect and interpret data in order to answer a question or solve a problem and they conduct this work in a multitude of industries, such as business, science, medicine, criminal justice, and government.
Where to learn it
Many data analyst jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree in the field of science, engineering, technology, or mathematics. However, it is possible to become a data analyst without a degree. Check out this article from Coursera on how to become a data analyst with and without a degree. Springboard also has a great article, which you can read here, that tells you how to get into this field without a degree.
Related skills
- Data scientist
- Business systems analyst
- Marketing analyst
- Business intelligence expert
15. IT Engineer
- Pay range: $65,000 to $161,000 per year.
Okay, next on the list I have a skill that’s part of a growing industry – and it’s IT. Now, as well all know, our society is become more and more dependent on technology, so IT is an industry that’s still growing and is sure to only get bigger. That’s why this can be a good career choice.
One job you might want to consider is working as an IT engineer.
Job requirements
IT engineers are needed in pretty much every sector you can think of and help businesses and organizations with their computers. They test, install, and troubleshoot computer hardware and software to meet the needs of the employer. This job takes problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and IT engineers must be knowledgeable about security protocols, IT systems, and networking infrastructures.
Where to learn it
Many IT engineer jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree. But, you can get into IT without a degree. My Dad is actually an IT engineer, and he does not have a degree. Instead, he got a certification from Microsoft and started in an entry level position on a help desk before moving up to IT engineer. So, it can be done.
CompTIA actually has an interesting article, which you can check out here, that’s all about getting into IT without a degree.
Related skills
- Computer network engineer
- Computer user support specialist
16. Blogging
- Pay range: Varies
If you’re looking for a relatively slow paced low stress job, something that you can do without a degree, where you can be your own boss, and where you can work from home, then give blogging a try. When you first start out with blogging, you aren’t going to make any money. But, if you can build up enough traffic, you could make six figures annually.
Job requirements
Bloggers create content on a particular subject, like gardening, cooking, or fashion. They upload their articles on their site and then build up a readership.
As a blogger, you’ll need to have excellent research skills and be able to write and upload articles on a consistent basis. Also, it’s one thing to have a blog filled with tons of great articles but if no one ever sees it, you’re not going to make any money, sadly.
So, that’s why learning about SEO is so important. You need to know how to drive traffic to your blog so that you can start building an audience and making money.
Where to learn it
Okay, so anyone can start their own blog and no degree or experience is required, which is why this is such a good option.
Now, to get started, you’ll need a place to post your blog content. You can publish blog posts through WordPress.org. You can get a domain name and hosting from sites like Bluehost, HostGator, and GoDaddy. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to upload articles on a consistent basis.
Uploading blog posts, in and of itself, is not going to be what makes you money here. Instead, you need to do things to monetize your blog. There are tons of options for this, and I actually have a post all about how to make money from your blog with a list of top blog monetization methods.
Related skills
- Affiliate marketing
- Podcasting
- Online course creator
- Online coach
17. Video editing
- Pay range: $32,000 to $93,000 a year
Next up we have a skill that can generate a pretty great income. Not quite six figures, but pretty close and above average in many cases.
Now, being a video editor is a job that anyone can get into, and you aren’t going to have to go to college or anything like that. What you do need to do is build up your skills so that you can have a lucrative career.
Job requirements
Video editors edit videos for a variety of clients and businesses. This could be anything from a short advert to a long-form series. It really depends on the industry.
Where to learn it
There are tons of articles on video editing online which you can find with a quick internet search. Also, there are a few courses, both free and paid that you can take online. Some examples include courses from Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn.
Related skills
- YouTube video creator
- Video production
18. Computer and information systems manager
- Pay range: $110,000 to $270,000 a year
Okay, so another career to consider is becoming a computer and information systems manager. This is one of the highest paying fields on the list, with even the lower end of the salary spectrum reaching six figures.
Job requirements
Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related projects for an organization. This can include analyzing an organization’s computer needs, recommending possible upgrades, and planning and directing the installation and maintenance of computer hardware and software. Most work fulltime, but some work more than 40 hours per week.
Where to learn it
If you are looking into this career, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or in a related field, such as engineering and technologies, and many computer and information systems managers also have a graduate degree. Experience in the field is also required.
Related skills
- Computer & information research scientist
- Computer network architect
- Database administrator
19. Graphic design
- Pay range: $32,000 to $75,000 per year
Graphic design is another good paying skill. While not quite as well paid as the previous job, for those who enjoy artistic endeavors, working in graphic design can certainly be a good choice.
Job requirements
Graphic designers create a variety of digital illustrations and designs, like logos, original images, flyers, and much more. They can work on things like brochures, magazines, advertisements, and reports.
Where to learn it
Some graphic design jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, fine arts, or in a related field, but that’s definitely not a requirement for all jobs. Many companies will hire entry level graphic designers if they have a portfolio and experience.
You can also find freelance graphic design jobs, and many of these do not require a degree. This is a good option for beginners who’re looking to gain experience in the field.
There are freelance graphic design jobs available on sites like PeoplePerHour and UpWork.
Related skills
- Logo designer
- Multimedia artist
- Illustrator
- Product designer
20. Web design
- Pay range: $38,000 to $87,000 per year
Next on the list we have web design, which is a skill that can pay pretty well. It’s one to consider if you enjoy tech and art.
Job requirements
Web designers, as their job title suggests, are responsible for designing websites. They work on the aesthetic appearance of websites focusing on things like how the content is arranged, and how any design elements are implemented.
They mostly focus on the front-end of the site, so the part of the site that users see and interact with rather than the back-end of the site, which is more focused on coding, and the technical functionality of the site.
This means that web designers focus on things like fonts, photos, illustrations, and color schemes.
Where to learn it
Some web designers do have a bachelor’s degree in a field like graphic design, but having a degree is certainly not a requirement.
GoDaddy has an interesting article on how to become a web designer even if you don’t have a degree. You can read it here.
You will need to know how to use design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Related skills
- Web developer
- UX designer
Other High Income Skills without a Degree
There are many other skills that can make you a lot of money. And thanks to the internet, there are many high income skills you can learn at home for free.
Here are a few more skill you can learn that can result in you getting fun jobs that pay well without a degree.
- YouTube creator
- Author
- SEO specialist
- Data scientist
- Animator
- Investment banking
- Financial planning
- General contractor
- Application developer
- Web developer
Summary
Earning a high income takes time regardless of the skill you choose to pursue. When you land your first copywriting gig, for example, you can’t expect to be making $90,000 right off the bat. It just doesn’t work that way.
Whatever career you choose, you are going to need to start at the bottom and work your way up. That takes time, and dedication and that’s one of the reasons why I believe that people should always pursue something that they actually enjoy doing.
Science and math, although awesome, are just not my thing. Writing, on the other hand, I have always enjoyed, which is why I chose to get into freelance writing. Because I enjoy it, I’m happy to put in the effort that the job entails. When you don’t enjoy something, it makes it seem like a chore, and you really don’t want that. Sure, there are days in every career type where you don’t feel super motivated, but if you choose a career that you actually like, you’ll have a much better time.
So, if you feel like sales could be for you, try becoming an insurance agent, or if you love organizing and planning things, then consider a career as a project manager.
There really is a high-income skill out there to suit everybody and the best part is that most of them don’t require you to have a degree.
Do you have any tips on careers that are great for making money? If so, share them with us in the comments section below.
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