College isn’t necessary for every career path, and jobs that pay $100K a year without a degree are more common than you think. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupation Finder, roughly a quarter of all professions do not require a degree and have median salaries above $40K, which is above the US Census’ per capita personal income of $37,638. The top earners in the vast majority of these occupations make six figures.
Pursuing a job that pays six figures without a degree may also be a better bet than a four-year degree, the average cost of which is $29,033 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Skills and experience are more important to many employers, and there are a variety of alternative learning paths, certifications, and on-the-job training opportunities that can help you hone your skills.
Key Takeaways
- College is not necessary for every career path, and there are many jobs that pay $100,000 or more per year without a degree.
- Pursuing a job that pays six figures without a degree can be a better bet than getting a four-year degree, which can be costly.
- Some of the highest-paying jobs without a degree include technology sales manager, computer and information systems manager, and advertising and promotions manager.
- Construction manager, elevator and escalator installer, police detective, and web developer are also jobs that can pay $100,000 or more without a degree.
- Many of these jobs require specific skills, experience, certifications, or on-the-job training.
- While some entry-level positions in these fields may not initially pay six figures, with experience and further training, it is possible to reach a salary of $100,000 or more.
- Bootcamps and specialized training programs can be a valuable alternative to traditional college education for gaining the necessary skills for these high-paying jobs.
20 Jobs That Pay $100K a Year Without a Degree: At a Glance
Here are the jobs that make $100K a year without a degree, listed from highest to lowest average salary. Even the jobs on this list with average salaries below $100,000 have the potential to become six-figure careers.
| Job | Average Salary | Minimum Job Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Technology Sales Manager | $161,920 | Experience as a sales representative and a high-school diploma |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,010 | Computer science knowledge and 5-10 years of management experience |
| Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager | $133,380 | Ability to organize promotional campaigns and establish a brand |
| Air Traffic Controller | $129,750 | High school diploma, complete Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative, pass a medical evaluation, and 3 years of related experience |
| Software Architect | $127,398 | Computer architecture and software development knowledge |
| Software Developer | $120,730 | Software development knowledge |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 | Knowledge of relevant computer networks, 5-10 years of experience, professional certification |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 | Knowledge of cyber security, professional certification |
| Construction Manager | $98,890 | High school diploma and construction experience |
| Elevator and Escalator Installer | $97,860 | High-school diploma, state license, and apprenticeship |
| Police Detective | $83,640 | High school diploma, US citizen, and graduate from police academy |
| Web Developer | $78,300 | High school diploma, HTML programming skills, and knowledge of JavaScript or SQL and design tools |
| Dental Hygienist | $77,810 | Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene and state license |
| Professional Athlete | $77,300 | High school diploma and athletic talent |
| Gambling Manager | $74,970 | High-school diploma or GED |
| Fire Inspector | $63,080 | High school diploma, state-approved EMT certification, and firefighter experience |
| Court Reporter | $60,380 | High school diploma, certificate, and speed-typing test |
| Business Owner | $60,000 | High school diploma, finance skills, and organization skills |
| Plumber | $59,880 | High school diploma or equivalent, state license, and apprenticeship |
| Real Estate Agent | $48,770 | High-school diploma or equivalent, experience with property finances and contracts, and real estate license |
Best Jobs That Pay $100K a Year Without a Degree: In Detail
Technology Sales Manager
- 90th Percentile Salary: $208,000+
- Projected Job Growth: 7%
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, Virginia
Technology sales managers oversee a team of salespeople who sell technology. As this is a mid to senior-level tech sales job, no degree is needed if you have the right experience. To get into tech sales without a degree, you’ll need to first excel as an entry-level tech salesperson. Next, improve your skills with a tech sales bootcamp like SV Academy or a sales or management certification program.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
- 90th Percentile Salary: $208,000+
- Projected Job Growth: 16%
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey
Computer systems managers plan and coordinate a company’s information technology needs, authorizing hardware and software updates when necessary. The role requires deep knowledge of the latest technologies and strong leadership skills. If you don’t have a degree, bootcamp training, industry experience, and management certifications can qualify you to become one.
Advertising and Promotions Manager
- 90th Percentile Salary: $208,000+
- Projected Job Growth: 10%
- Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California
Advertising and promotions managers plan marketing strategies by reviewing budgets, contracts, campaigns, and writing content for all ads for their clients they oversee. They constantly research trends and supervise a team of marketing agents to help acquire and retain clients. You can get into advertising without a degree if you have an extensive background in traditional and social media marketing.
Air Traffic Controller
- 90th Percentile Salary: $185,990+
- Projected Job Growth: 1%
- Highest-Paying States: Virginia, New Hampshire, Georgia
Air traffic controllers direct aircraft traffic at airports and communicate with pilots about weather conditions. They need to be able to multitask safely and make important decisions quickly. You can become an air traffic controller without a degree by taking a training course with the Federal Aviation Administration and passing a skill assessment, medical exam, and background check.
Software Architect
- 90th Percentile Salary: $173,000+
- Projected Job Growth: 26%
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Rhode Island
The primary duty of software architects is to provide high-level software solutions to clients and companies. You can be a software architect with no degree as long as you are knowledgeable about operating systems, software tools, programming languages, and communication networks. To become a software architect without a degree you’ll need to teach yourself how to code.
Software Developer
- 90th Percentile Salary: $168,570+
- Projected Job Growth: 26%
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Rhode Island
Software developers create software applications and products to meet the demand of web and mobile applications in all industries. While some positions will require a bachelor’s degree, there are plenty of software developer jobs with no degree requirement. To become a software developer with no degree, you’ll need to learn how to code.
Computer Network Architect
- 90th Percentile Salary: $168,890+
- Projected Job Growth: 4%
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, South Dakota, Maryland
A computer network architect designs and builds either the physical or cloud-based network that a company uses to share information and conduct business. They consult with the company’s decision-makers to determine the best network for the budget. A certificate from a top networking bootcamp and IT certifications are sufficient prerequisites in lieu of a degree.
Information Security Analyst
- 90th Percentile Salary: $165,920+
- Projected Job Growth: 35%
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, Maryland
Information security analysts study an organization’s computer systems to determine their ability to withstand a cyber attack. If they determine the systems are compromised, they propose and work to implement a solution in a timely manner. Cyber security bootcamps have made it possible to become an information security analyst without a degree.
Construction Manager
- 90th Percentile Salary: $163,800+
- Projected Job Growth: 8%
- Highest-Paying States: Alaska, New York, New Jersey
Construction managers make sure construction projects get completed on time and on budget. Becoming a construction manager with no degree is possible for self-employed contractors or those who work for a small business, but those who work at larger firms need an associate or bachelor’s degree. To become a construction manager without a degree, you need several years of work experience and strong project management skills.
Elevator and Escalator Installer
- 90th Percentile Salary: $130,940
- Projected Job Growth: 3%
- Highest-Paying States: Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maine
Elevator and escalator installer is one of the jobs that can pay $100K a year without a degree, though you won’t make that much in your first few years. The primary duties of elevator and escalator installers include installing new elevators and repairing existing elevators. They usually also work on chairlifts, moving walkways, and similar equipment in offices, buildings, and public spaces.
Police Detective
- 90th Percentile Salary: $105,540+
- Projected Job Growth: 3%
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Alaska, Hawaii
A police detective is a type of police officer who collects evidence and solves crimes. They also testify in court cases. Most detectives begin their careers as police officers and work their way up to detective, a job that pays $100K with no degree. You can become a police officer without a degree, but you’ll need to attend a police academy.
Web Developer
- 90th Percentile Salary: $168,200+
- Projected Job Growth: 30%
- Highest-Paying States: Washington, Delaware, District of Columbia
Web developers create websites and web applications for clients and businesses. You can find a job as a web developer with no degree as long as you have knowledge and technical skills in programming, web design, and user interfaces. You can become a web developer without a degree and earn a high-paying salary as an entrepreneur, freelancer, or software company employee.
Dental Hygienist
- 90th Percentile Salary: $100,200+
- Projected Job Growth: 9%
- Highest-Paying States: Alaska, California, Washington
Dental hygienists work in dental clinics where they clean teeth, check oral health, and take dental x-rays. You can become a dental hygienist with no degree, but most dental hygienists need an associate degree to meet their state’s license requirements.
Professional Athlete
- 90th Percentile Salary: $208,000+
- Projected Job Growth: 36%
- Highest-Paying States: Indiana, Ohio, Colorado
Professional athlete is one of the top jobs that pay $100K a year without a college degree. However, many professional athletes attend college to participate in a college sports program before they turn professional. To become a professional athlete you need to have natural athletic talent in a sport with a professional league.
Gambling Manager
- 90th Percentile Salary: $136,650+
- Projected Job Growth: 17%
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Florida, New York
Gambling managers are responsible for managing casino operations. Gambling managers have excellent customer service and managerial skills to look after the staff and customers. They implement house rules and policies in the casino and make sure everyone is playing by the rules. After gaining a few years of work experience, this job can pay six figures without a degree.
Fire Inspector
- 90th Percentile Salary: $100,730+
- Projected Job Growth: 6%
- Highest-Paying States: California, Idaho, Oregon
A fire inspector reviews building plans and inspects buildings to make sure they are up to state and local regulations. They also teach classes and workshops about fire safety. Fire inspectors can make $100K a year without a degree. A fire inspector starts their career as a firefighter with emergency medical technician (EMT) training, then they get on-the-job training to become a fire inspector.
Court Reporter
- 90th Percentile Salary: $103,270+
- Projected Job Growth: 1%
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, Massachusetts
One of the best jobs that pay $100K without a degree is a court reporter. These professionals take notes on legal proceedings in court. To land a court reporter job with no degree, you’ll need to take the exam for Registered Professional Reporter certification. This requires good listening skills, the ability to type quickly, and some knowledge of common legal terms.
Business Owner
- 90th Percentile Salary: $127,000+
- Projected Job Growth: N/A
- Best States for Small Businesses: Indiana, Colorado, North Dakota
Business owners run businesses of all sizes in any industry. You can start a business without a degree, you just need a good idea and an understanding of local laws and regulations. Business owners may manage teams of workers and sell a physical product, or they may be the sole worker providing a service. To start a business without a degree, reach out to the local office of the US Small Business Administration.
Plumber
- 90th Percentile Salary: $99,920+
- Projected Job Growth: 2%
- Highest-Paying States: Illinois, Alaska, New Jersey
Plumber is another one of the $100K jobs without a degree. Plumbers design, install, maintain, and fix plumbing systems in residential and commercial properties. To become a plumber without a degree, you’ll need to complete a four-year apprenticeship through your local union and then take an exam to get your license.
Real Estate Agent
- 90th Percentile Salary: $102,170
- Projected Job Growth: 5%
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, New Hampshire, New York
Real estate agents handle the sale of real estate properties. They have excellent sales skills and maintain good relationships with clients. Additionally, they are familiar with property contracts, property and land regulations, as well as the local area. You can do real estate without a degree. To become a real estate agent without a degree, all you need to do is pass the licensing exam and have excellent soft skills.
What Is the Highest-Paying Job Without a Degree?
Technology sales manager is the highest paying job without a degree. Many of the highest paying jobs without a degree are tech jobs, such as software architect, software developer, and web developer. To learn the coding skills you need for these positions, you can teach yourself how to code or join a coding bootcamp.
For the non-tech jobs that pay $100K a year without a degree, you need a mix of experience and management skills. In these roles, the entry-level positions don’t make six figures. However, after five to 10 years on the job and a certificate or certification program to hone your skills, you’ll be eligible for one of the jobs that pay $100K with no degree.
How Common Are Six-Figure Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree?
There are many high-paying job opportunities available that pay $100K a year without a degree. Some of these jobs are real estate agent, risk manager, and sales consultant. For most common high-paying jobs without a degree, you’ll need many years of work experience until you reach a level where you make six figures.
For some jobs that pay 100k a year without a degree, you still need advanced training. Bootcamps offer programs for those seeking these specialized career paths. As a result, you will be able to build an impressive portfolio with hands-on project experience to get you your dream job without a college degree.
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How to Earn $100K Without a Degree: 3 Alternative Paths
A four-year university isn’t the only way to earn a job with a median salary of $100K. There are alternative paths you can take to careers that pay well without a bachelor’s degree, and an impressive resume and cover letter that show off your motivation and qualifications can go a long way. Below are some of the best alternative methods to start making $100K a year.
Freelance Work
As a new freelancer, you may be wondering what the best-paying freelance jobs are and where to find them. You can build a portfolio and demonstrate your skills on freelance websites. With fewer requirements and barriers to entry than salaried jobs, the freelancing world is a place where you can stumble upon no-experience jobs that pay $100K. You can start a six-figure job by finding your niche and taking up gigs that help you reach your career goals.
Consulting
Consulting allows you to earn money by providing professional advice to businesses and clients. There aren’t many entry-level jobs that pay $100K, but consulting is one career that pays big bucks right away if you’re bringing valuable skills and experience from another domain. According to PayScale, for example, the average information technology consultant earns $82,591 per year, with the top 10 percent of earners making over $132,000 per year.
Bootcamp Education
If a job has entry-level education requirements, you might be able to meet those requirements by attending a bootcamp. The goal of bootcamps is to offer a focused learning experience in in-demand fields and help students gain industry-relevant expertise. Bootcamp students get hands-on experience and build professional portfolios before they graduate, which is a great way to make $100K a year without college. Plenty of web developer jobs are open to job seekers who have a certificate from a coding bootcamp but no degree.
Should I Skip College and Try to Get a $100K Job Without a Degree?
College is not for everyone. Depending on your financial situation and your goals, you may be better off choosing one of the career paths on our list. After all, the average bachelor’s degree student pays over $7,000 per year in student loans, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. A recent study by Burning Glass Institute, moreover, suggests that many employers are dropping their degree requirements for middle-skill and high-skill jobs.
Given the rising cost of higher education and the changing landscape for high-skill employment, it has never made more sense to pursue a job that pays $100K a year without college. This is especially true in the tech industry, where the best coding bootcamps are replacing degree programs with their fast-paced, skills-focused approach to education. Even if you have no experience, jobs that pay $100K are now only a bootcamp away.
Jobs That Pay $100K a Year Without a Degree FAQ
All of the jobs that pay $100K without a degree require experience and skill. There is no easy job that pays $100K without a degree. However, the easiest job on our list is probably technology sales manager. It’s a relatively low-stress sales role that only requires some technical knowledge. If you are a naturally gifted salesperson, this is an easy job that pays well without a degree.
How do you find traveling jobs that require no skills or degree?
To find traveling jobs that require no skills or degree, search for jobs where you have to visit clients or business locations. Jobs like real estate agent, professional athlete, and technology sales manager are all traveling jobs that don’t require a degree. You can also work as a remote freelance web developer or software architect and work from anywhere in the country or world.
What hospital jobs require no degree?
There are only a few hospital jobs that require no degree because most hospital staff need at least a bachelor’s degree and a state license to work with patients. However, you can work on the cleaning staff, maintenance staff, or reception team without a degree.
What jobs pay $20 an hour without a degree?
All of the jobs on our list of jobs that pay $100K a year without a degree pay more than $20 an hour. Some other jobs that pay $20 an hour without a degree that didn’t make our list are solar installer, truck driver, and delivery driver. Some visual and musical artists can also make $20 an hour without a degree.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
