Key takeaways
- You don’t need a college degree to find high-paying, low-stress jobs.
- Some popular options include electrician, exercise trainer, and graphic designer.
- Many of these roles offer strong job growth and on-the-job training.
- Certifications or trade programs could help boost your income potential.
While all jobs come with some level of stress, certain careers offer a better balance between work and life. If college isn’t part of your immediate plans, you can still find rewarding, well-paying jobs that don’t require a degree. Many of these roles value hands-on experience, certification, or vocational training. Plus, they’re growing in demand. Ready to see where the next step on your career path can take you?
Keep reading to find 17 low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree.
What does a low-stress job mean?
Low stress can mean different things to different people. For some, it may be a desk job, while for others, it may involve physical labor. However, the common thread is often a secure, non-competitive environment that promotes a positive work-life balance. These conditions contribute to a happier you and reduce your risk of burning out. Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance that works for you.
17 low-stress jobs (that pay well) without a degree
1. Electrician
- Median salary: $62,000
- Projected growth: 6.5%
Primary duties:
- Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and systems
- Read blueprints
- Troubleshoot electrical issues
- Ensure compliance with safety codes
Requirements:
- Completion of trade school or apprenticeship
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Licensure is required in most states
2. Elevator installer and repairer
- Median salary: $106,000
- Projected growth: 1.6%
Primary duties:
- Install, maintain, and repair elevators and escalators
- Inspect systems
- Troubleshoot electrical and mechanical issues
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Apprenticeship
- Licensure is required in many states
3. Exercise trainer and group fitness instructor
- Median salary: $46,000
- Projected growth: 13.7%
Primary duties:
- Design and lead workouts for individuals or groups
- Assess client fitness levels
- Motivate clients and track progress
Requirements:
- Certification preferred (e.g., ACE, NASM)
- High school diploma
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
4. Graphic designer (freelancer or in-house)
- Median salary: $61,000
- Projected growth: 3.3%
Primary duties:
- Create visual content for print or digital media
- Use design software
- Collaborate with clients or marketing teams
Requirements:
- Portfolio of work
- High school diploma
- Proficiency with design tools like Adobe Creative Suite
5. Groundskeeper
- Median salary: $38,000
- Projected growth: 3.6%
Primary duties:
- Maintain lawns, gardens, and outdoor spaces
- Operate landscaping equipment
- Perform routine upkeep like trimming, planting, and watering
Requirements:
- High school diploma preferred
- On-the-job training is typically provided
- Physical stamina and attention to detail
6. Hair stylist
- Median salary: $35,000
- Projected growth: 7.7%
Primary duties:
- Cut, color, and style hair
- Recommend treatments and products
- Maintain a clean and safe salon environment
Requirements:
- A cosmetology license is required in most states
- Completion of a cosmetology program
- Strong customer service skills
7. Massage therapist
- Median salary: $57,000
- Projected growth: 18.3%
Primary duties:
- Provide massage treatments for relaxation or therapeutic purposes
- Assess client needs
- Maintain treatment records.
Requirements:
- State license or certification
- Completion of a massage therapy program
- Strong interpersonal skills
8. Office clerk
- Median salary: $43,000
- Projected growth: -6.6%
Primary duties:
- File, organize, and manage documents
- Answer phones and assist visitors
- Enter and update data in office systems
- Support daily office tasks and staff needs
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Basic computer and office software skills
- Strong organization and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and be detail-oriented
9. Pharmacy technician
- Median salary: $43,000
- Projected growth: 5.6%
Primary duties:
- Prepare and dispense medications under pharmacist supervision
- Manage inventory
- Assist with customer inquiries and prescription records
Requirements:
- Postsecondary certificate preferred but not always required
- High school diploma or equivalent
10. Photographer
- Median salary: $42,000
- Projected growth: 4.1%
Primary duties:
- Take and edit photos for events, media, or marketing
- Set up lighting and equipment
- Manage client communications
Requirements:
- No formal degree required
- Portfolio and experience preferred
- Technical proficiency with cameras and editing software
11. Plumber
- Median salary: $62,000
- Projected growth: 2.3%
Primary duties:
- Install and repair pipes, fixtures, and water systems
- Read blueprints
- Troubleshoot plumbing problems
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Apprenticeship or trade school
- Licensure is required in most states
12. Postal Service Clerk
- Median salary: $61,000
- Projected growth: -6.7%
Primary duties:
- Receive letters and packages
- Sell postage stamps, postage cards, and stamped envelopes
- Examine the mail for correct postage
Requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- A high school diploma or GED
- Pass a background check and drug screening
- Score at least a 70 on the Postal Service’s written exam
13. Real Estate Agent
- Median salary: $56,000
- Projected growth: 3.2%
Primary duties:
- Rent, buy, or sell properties
- Accompany clients to the property site
- Draw up real estate contracts
Requirements:
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Take pre-licensing coursework and pass the state real estate exam
- Secure sponsorship from a licensed broker to activate the license
14. Roofer
- Median salary: $50,000
- Projected growth: 2%
Primary duties:
- Install, repair, and maintain roofs
- Inspect for leaks or damage
- Work with various roofing materials safely
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Physical stamina
- On-the-job training is typically provided
15. Travel agent
- Median salary: $48,000
- Projected growth: 3.5%
Primary duties:
- Plan and book travel for clients
- Research destinations, flights, hotels, and activities
- Provide travel advice and itineraries
Requirements:
- High school diploma
- Strong customer service and organizational skills
- Knowledge of booking systems is helpful
16. Truck Driver
- Median salary: $42,000
- Projected growth: 11.5%
Primary duties:
- Deliver goods locally or regionally
- Plan routes
- Ensure timely and safe delivery
Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license
- Good driving record
- Some positions require a CDL for larger trucks
17. Wind turbine technician
- Median salary: $62,000
- Projected growth: 44.6%
Primary duties:
- Install, maintain, and repair wind turbines
- Perform inspections
- Ensure safety and compliance with regulations
Requirements:
- Postsecondary certificate or training program
- High school diploma
- Strong mechanical and technical skills
Do college degrees mean more earnings?
A college degree doesn’t always guarantee higher earnings, but let’s look at what the data says. High school graduates earn an average of $930 a week, and those with a bachelor’s degree earn about $1,543 a week. However, many fast-growing industries continue to offer strong career paths for workers without a degree.
How do I find and apply for low-stress jobs?
During your job search, you may see a lot of jobs listed that require a college degree. However, as mentioned, there are many jobs available that do not require a degree. Here are some tips when looking for and applying to a non-degree job:
- Look at job search websites: Start by simply looking for jobs that interest you.
- Read the job description: You don’t want to spend time applying for a job just to learn that they require a college degree. Thoroughly read through each job description and pay close attention to the education requirements.
- Adapt your resume and cover letter: Tailor your resume to showcase your qualifications. Highlight your skills and relevant work experience that directly address the job requirements mentioned in the description.
- Make connections: Networking is a great chance for you to build relationships with potential employers. If they know you and what you can bring to the table, then you may have a better chance of getting hired. It is a great way to learn about potential job opportunities and to get future recommendations.
College isn’t the only path to success
College isn’t the only way to reach your goals. If earning a degree isn’t in your current plans, you can still build a successful future with one of many low-stress, high-paying jobs that don’t require college. These opportunities can help you gain valuable skills, strengthen your resume, and find work that truly interests you.
Ready to start your career search? Try College Raptor’s FREE Career Finder tool to discover jobs that could be the right fit for you.
