10 High-Paying Careers That Don't Require a 4-Year Degree: Earn $80,000+ Annually

The journey to a new career can be challenging, especially when financial stress is a concern. Many worry that without a traditional college education, their options are limited. However, did you know that several lucrative career paths offer excellent salaries without the need for a time-consuming and costly four-year degree?

Here are 10 careers that pay a median salary of at least $80,000 a year, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

1. Transportation Inspector

Median annual salary: $87,290 Quality control is crucial in transportation, and inspectors play a key role in ensuring smooth operations for production and transportation companies. Responsibilities may include inspecting goods or equipment to maintain optimal performance. Typically, only a high school diploma is required.

2. Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer

Median annual salary: $92,560 This role involves installing and repairing electrical power lines to keep power flowing. It requires technical training and physical ability. The job outlook is positive, with a projected 7% growth through 2034.

3. Dental Hygienist

Median annual salary: $94,260 To become a dental hygienist, you need an associate's degree in dental hygiene and a state license. Duties include teeth cleanings and patient education. This field is expected to grow by 7% over the next decade.

4. Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Median annual salary: $97,020 Nuclear medicine technologists assist doctors in diagnosing and treating medical conditions using nuclear technology, such as PET scans. An associate's degree in nuclear medicine technology is typically required.

5. Radiation Therapist

Median annual salary: $101,990 With an associate's degree in radiation therapy and a state license if needed, you can work as a radiation therapist, administering and monitoring radiation therapy, often for cancer patients. Job growth is projected at 2% through 2034.

6. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers

Median annual salary: $102,010 These managers coordinate the movement of products or people at a high level. Starting in a lower-level position is common, and typically, no education beyond a high school diploma is required.

7. Power Plant Operator, Distributor, and Dispatcher

Median annual salary: $103,600 These professionals monitor the flow of electrical power. Training is usually on-the-job, and a high school diploma is often sufficient. It's a high-pressure role but offers competitive pay.

8. First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives

Median annual salary: $105,980 Supervisors coordinate schedules and logistics for law enforcement. Entry typically requires only a high school diploma.

9. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers

Median annual salary: $106,580 This career involves installing and repairing elevators and escalators, with only a high school diploma needed. An apprenticeship can help start this path, and demand is expected to grow by 5% through 2034.

10. Air Traffic Controller

Median annual salary: $144,580 Air traffic controllers coordinate flight paths to ensure safety. Requirements include an associate's degree, extensive on-the-job training, and high concentration. Job growth is projected at 1% through 2034.

Achieving financial stability involves strategic planning and leveraging your skills. These career paths can reduce stress by avoiding lengthy educational commitments. Non-degree programs are also on the rise, offering further opportunities to save time and increase earnings.