Jobs that offer an annual salary of $100K+ without a degree include air traffic controllers ($130,000+), commercial pilots ($100,000+ with training), and real estate brokers ($100,000+ with experience). Other high-paying roles include construction managers, elevator technicians, and power plant operators, where certifications and experience replace a traditional degree.
Introduction to $100k + High-Paying Careers
In today’s economy, it’s possible to earn a high-paying salary without a college degree. While many high-paying jobs require a bachelor’s degree or higher, there are several careers that can be pursued with on-the-job training, vocational training, or an associate’s degree. In this article, we’ll explore some of the highest paying jobs that don’t require a college degree, including careers in sales, real estate, technology, and more. These roles often focus on technical skills, industry certifications, and extensive on-the-job training, proving that a traditional college degree isn’t the only path to financial success.
Can You Make 6 Figures Without a Degree?
Yes, it is possible to make a six-figure salary without a college degree. While a degree can certainly provide a foundation for a high-paying career, it’s not the only path to success. Many entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and skilled tradespeople have achieved six-figure salaries without a degree. Additionally, some careers in technology, such as web development and data science, can be pursued with online training and certifications.
These fields value practical skills and experience, allowing individuals to earn a high income through alternative educational routes.
High-Paying Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree
A four-year degree isn’t the only path to a six-figure salary. Many high-paying career paths focus on technical skills, industry certifications, or extensive on-the-job training. Careers in aviation, real estate, skilled trades, and technology often offer competitive pay without a bachelor’s degree.
The highest-paying jobs without a degree are found in industries such as aviation, sales, construction, and technology. Roles like air traffic controller, commercial pilot, and real estate broker provide salaries above $100K after gaining experience and necessary certifications.
Top Jobs That Pay $100K+ Without a Degree
The following jobs offer six-figure salaries based on skill level, certifications, and work experience, with average salaries often exceeding $100K.
1. Air Traffic Controller
Average Salary: $120,000 – $257,000
Key Requirements: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) training and certification
Air traffic controllers manage aircraft movement, ensuring safe landings and takeoffs, with an annual salary ranging from $120,000 to $257,000. The FAA requires applicants to complete a specialized training program and pass a series of rigorous exams. Many start their careers at smaller airports before advancing to high-paying positions at major aviation hubs.
2. Construction Manager
Average Salary: $100,000 – $153,000
Key Requirements: On-the-job training and certifications
Construction managers oversee site management, budgeting, and project execution for office buildings, commercial properties, and residential developments. While some have an associate’s degree, many start as laborers and work their way up through experience and contracting business certifications.
3. Technology Sales Manager
Average Salary: $100,000 – $208,000
Key Requirements: Sales experience and industry certifications
Technology sales managers sell software, cloud services, and information systems solutions to businesses. Strong communication skills, knowledge of programming languages, and an understanding of an organization’s computer systems help professionals succeed in this field. While a traditional bachelor’s degree can be helpful, many professionals break into this field through on-the-job training and industry certifications.
4. Elevator and Escalator Installer
Average Salary: $100,000+
Key Requirements: Apprenticeship and technical skills
Elevator technicians install and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways in commercial properties and high-rise office buildings. Most learn through apprenticeships and must pass state licensing exams to secure a high paying job.
5. Fire Chief
Average Salary: $96,000 – $120,000
Key Requirements: Leadership experience in firefighting
Fire chiefs oversee fire departments, emergency response teams, and public safety operations. Many begin as firefighters and work their way up through ranks based on experience, training, and leadership ability, showcasing diverse career paths within the fire service.
6. Web Developer
Average Salary: $85,000 – $120,000
Key Requirements: Coding skills from bootcamps or self-learning
Web developers design and maintain websites for businesses. Many work remotely and earn six figure jobs by specializing in mobile app development, machine learning, and e-commerce platforms. Coding skills in JavaScript, Python, and HTML increase earning potential.
7. Product Manager
Average Salary: $103,000 – $120,000
Key Requirements: Industry knowledge and project management skills
Product managers oversee the development, marketing, and launch of new software and technology products. While a traditional bachelor’s degree can be helpful, many professionals break into this field through on-the-job training and industry certifications.
8. Commercial Pilot
Average Salary: $100,000+
Key Requirements: Commercial pilot’s license and flight training
Commercial pilots fly cargo planes, corporate jets, and charter flights, with an annual salary often exceeding $100,000. Unlike airline pilots, they do not require a bachelor’s degree but must complete extensive flight hours and obtain an FAA-issued commercial pilot’s license.
9. Police Detective
Average Salary: $90,000 – $130,000
Key Requirements: Law enforcement experience and investigative skills
Police detectives specialize in criminal investigations, working in homicide, fraud, or cybercrime divisions. Many start as police officers and advance based on experience, performance, and additional training.
Other Careers That Don’t Require a High School Diploma
While a high school diploma is often considered a minimum requirement for many careers, there are some exceptions. Here are a few careers that don’t require a high school diploma:
1. Business Owner
Starting your own business can be a lucrative career path, and it doesn’t require a high school diploma. With a solid business plan and a willingness to take risks, entrepreneurs can build successful businesses and earn a high income. According to the Small Business Administration, there are over 30 million small businesses in the United States, and many of them are owned by individuals without a high school diploma. This career path emphasizes innovation, determination, and the ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities.
2. Real Estate Broker
A real estate broker can earn a high income without a high school diploma. While a license is required to practice real estate, it’s possible to obtain one through vocational training or an online course. Real estate brokers can earn a six-figure salary by selling properties and earning commissions. This career rewards those with strong sales skills, market knowledge, and the ability to build and maintain client relationships.
3. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant can earn a high income without a high school diploma. With the rise of remote work, virtual assistants are in high demand. They can provide administrative support, customer service, and other tasks to businesses and entrepreneurs. Virtual assistants can earn a six-figure salary by working with multiple clients and providing high-quality services. This role requires excellent organizational skills, communication abilities, and the flexibility to adapt to various client needs.
These careers demonstrate that it’s possible to earn a high income without a college degree or even a high school diploma. However, it’s essential to note that many of these careers require specialized training, certifications, or licenses. Additionally, a strong work ethic, dedication, and a willingness to learn are essential for success in any career. By focusing on developing relevant skills and gaining practical experience, individuals can achieve financial success without following a traditional educational path.
Table: Jobs That Pay $100K+ Without a Degree (in USD)
| Job Title | Average Salary | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Air Traffic Controller | $120,000 – $257,000 | Specialized training and FAA certification |
| Construction Manager | $100,000 – $153,000 | On-the-job experience and certifications |
| Technology Sales Manager | $100,000 – $208,000 | Sales experience and certifications |
| Elevator and Escalator Installer | $100,000+ | Apprenticeship and technical skills |
| Fire Chief | $96,000 – $120,000 | Leadership experience in firefighting |
| Web Developer | $85,000 – $120,000 | Coding skills; bootcamps or self-taught |
| Product Manager | $103,000 – $120,000 | Industry knowledge and management skills |
| Commercial Pilot | $100,000+ | Pilot training and licensure |
| Police Detective | $90,000 – $130,000 | Law enforcement experience |
Typical Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
How can someone transition from a low-paying job to a six-figure career without a degree?
Many high-paying career paths require specialized skills rather than a college degree. On-the-job training, industry certifications, and apprenticeships can fast-track career growth. Real estate agents, technology sales managers, and web developers often earn high salaries after gaining experience.
Are there remote jobs that pay over $100K without a degree?
Yes. Roles such as web developer, digital marketing manager, and virtual assistant allow remote work and can lead to six figure jobs. These jobs emphasize skills over education, and self-taught professionals often succeed.
What industries offer the fastest path to earning six figures without a degree?
Industries like technology (web development, IT security), construction (project management, contracting), and aviation (pilots, air traffic controllers) provide the fastest routes to high salaries without a degree, with average salaries often exceeding $100K.
Can someone switch careers later in life and still earn over $100K without a degree?
Yes. Many high-paying career paths prioritize experience over education. Fields like construction management, technology sales, and real estate allow career changes with proper training.
Final Thoughts
Earning a six-figure salary without college degrees is possible in many industries. Careers in aviation, sales, real estate, skilled trades, and technology provide lucrative opportunities based on certifications, experience, and technical skills. By focusing on in-demand skills and gaining on-the-job training, workers can bypass the degree requirement and achieve financial success.
