The highest-paying jobs in 2024 include physicians and surgeons, CEOs, engineering managers, financial managers, corporate lawyers, software engineers, data scientists, project managers, architects, and web developers. Although, location, company, experience, and level of education all play a factor. If you want to land one of the highest-paying jobs in the world, read on!
Learn more about each job’s salary and growth potential below.
Note: Information sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and College Raptor Careers.
1. Pediatric Surgeon
- US Median Annual Salary: $449,320
- Highest Earned: $533,740
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 4%
- Openings Per Year: 23,600
- Education: Bachelor’s degree and either a Medical Doctor (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree
Source: Pixabay user marionbrun.
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose and perform surgery to treat fetal abnormalities and birth defects, diseases, and injuries.
- Recommend, design, and implement a treatment plan
- Document and update charts and patient information to show findings and treatments
2. Cardiologist
- US Median Annual Salary: $423,250
- Highest Earned: $458,050
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 3.3%
- Openings Per Year: 500
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose, treat, manage, and prevent diseases or conditions of the cardiovascular system.
- Order and interpret tests such as electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, CTs, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to help diagnose conditions.
- Develop ongoing treatment and disease-management plans.
3. Dermatologist
- US Median Annual Salary: $342,860
- Highest Earned: $460,470
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 3.2%
- Openings Per Year: 400
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose and treat diseases relating to the skin, hair, and nails.
- Advise patients on preventive care techniques.
- Conduct research to increase knowledge about medical issues.
- Operate on patients to treat conditions.
4. Anesthesiologist
- US Median Annual Salary: $339,470
- Highest Earned: $481,420
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 2%
- Openings Per Year: 1,200
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Administer anesthetics and analgesics for pain management prior to, during, or after surgery.
- Implement advanced life support techniques.
- Order medical diagnostic or clinical tests.
- Monitor patient progress or responses to treatments.
5. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- US Median Annual Salary: $334,310
- Highest Earned: $372,680
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 4%
- Openings Per Year: 200
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment.
- Analyze patient data to determine patient needs or treatment goals.
- Operate on patients to treat conditions.
- Treat dental problems or diseases.
6. Emergency Medicine Physician
- US Median Annual Salary: $306,640
- Highest Earned: $388,270
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 2.9%
- Openings Per Year: 900
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Make immediate medical decisions and act to prevent death or further disability.
- Provide immediate recognition, evaluation, care, stabilization, and disposition of patients.
- Direct emergency medical staff in an emergency department.
7. Obstetrician and Gynecologist
- US Median Annual Salary: $278,660
- Highest Earned: $441,240
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 3%
- Openings Per Year: 700
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system.
- Care for women during pregnancy and childbirth.
- Analyze test data or images to inform diagnosis or treatment.
- Perform both medical and gynecological surgery functions.
8. Psychiatrist
- US Median Annual Salary: $256,930
- Highest Earned: $353,530
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 7%
- Openings Per Year: 1,000
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Treat patients using psychological therapies.
- Prescribe treatments or therapies.
- Collect medical information from patients, family members, or other medical professionals.
- Conduct research to increase knowledge about medical issues.
9. Orthodontist
- US Median Annual Salary: $239,200
- Highest Earned: $239,200
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 4.2%
- Openings Per Year: 4,900
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Examine, diagnose, and treat the mouth, teeth, or gums.
- Design and fabricate appliances to realign teeth and jaws to produce and maintain normal function and to improve appearance.
- Adjust dental devices or appliances to ensure fit.
10. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
- US Median Annual Salary: $206,680
- Highest Earned: $750,000
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 6%
- Openings Per Year: 343,800
Education: Bachelor’s degree in an area related to the field or Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA)
Job Responsibilities
- Plan strategies and policies to ensure an organization meets its goals.
- Lead the company’s operations including, but not limited to: finance, marketing, sales, human resources, legal, compliance, and IT.
- Represent the company to the public, stockholders, and government entities.
11. Pediatrician
- US Median Annual Salary: $205,860
- Highest Earned: $239,200
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 1%
- Openings Per Year: 1,000
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries in children.
- Give recommended immunizations.
- Make sure children are meeting developmental milestones in growth, behavior, and skills.
12. Airline Pilot
- US Median Annual Salary: $171,210
- Highest Earned: $239,200
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 5%
- Openings Per Year: 18,500
- Education: Bachelor’s degree and flight training with independent FAA-certified flight instructors.
Job Responsibilities
- Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo.
- Report vehicle or equipment malfunctions.
- Coordinate flight control or management activities.
13. Engineering Manager
- US Median Annual Salary: $165,370
- Highest Earned: $233,590
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 6%
- Openings Per Year: 15,000
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering
Job Responsibilities
- Direct and coordinate production, operations, quality assurance, and maintenance tasks to ensure projects are completed on time.
- Set goals, develop detailed plans, and prepare budgets for projects.
- Manage engineering staff, provide feedback, and address any issues that arise.
14. Marketing Manager
- US Median Annual Salary: $166,410
- Highest Earned: $265,300
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 6.6%
- Openings Per Year: 31,200
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in a business field
Job Responsibilities
- Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs.
- Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm’s profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm’s customers are satisfied.
- Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
15. Computer and Information Systems Manager
- US Median Annual Salary: $169,510
- Highest Earned: $239,200
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 17%
- Openings Per Year: 54,700
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as engineering technologies
Job Responsibilities
- Analyze data to inform operational decisions or activities.
- Develop organizational goals or objectives.
- Direct organizational operations, projects, or services.
- Hire and recruit personnel.
16. Financial Manager
- US Median Annual Salary: $156,100
- Highest Earned: $239,000
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 17%
- Openings Per Year: 75,100
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, or a related field
Job Responsibilities
- Prepare financial statements and business reports.
- Analyze data and advise on ways to maximize profits.
- Develop plans to achieve the long-term financial goals of the company.
17. Corporate Lawyer
- US Median Annual Salary: $145,760
- Highest Earned: $240,000
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 5%
- Openings Per Year: 35,600
- Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Advise businesses on legal matters and represent them in court.
- Ensure clients’ actions comply with local, state, and federal laws.
- Work with startups, partnerships, and corporations.
18. Human Resource Manager
- US Median Annual Salary: $136,350
- Highest Earned: $239,200
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 6%
- Openings Per Year: 17,400
- Education: Bachelor’s degree
Job Responsibilities
- Liaise between departments or other groups to improve function or communication.
- Recommend organizational process or policy changes.
- Advise others on legal or regulatory compliance matters.
- Analyze data to inform operational decisions or activities.
19. Pharmacist
- US Median Annual Salary: $136,030
- Highest Earned: $168,650
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 5%
- Openings Per Year: 14,200
- Education: Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program.
Job Responsibilities
- Dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners.
- Provide information to patients about medications and their use.
- Advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications.
20. Software Engineer
- US Median Annual Salary: $132,270
- Highest Earned: $208,620
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 17%
- Openings Per Year: 140,100
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a Master’s degree.
Job Responsibilities
- Write, test, and refine code in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++.
- Design, develop, test, and maintain software applications.
- Monitor performance, assist with maintenance, and stay up to date with the newest technology.
21. Veterinarian
- US Median Annual Salary: $119,000
- Highest Earned: $201,440
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 19.8%
- Openings Per Year: 4,300
- Education: Doctorate or professional degree
Job Responsibilities
- Diagnose, treat, operate, or research diseases and injuries of animals.
- Provide care for animals.
- Analyze test data or images to inform diagnosis or treatment.
- Counsel family members of clients or patients.
22. Data Scientist
- US Median Annual Salary: $108,020
- Highest Earned: $184,190
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 36%
- Openings Per Year: 20,800
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Some employers prefer candidates with a Master’s or doctoral degree.
Job Responsibilities
- Develop, validate, and refine algorithms and models.
- Use data visualization tools to communicate insights.
- Provide actionable business recommendations to stakeholders based on data analysis.
23. Project Manager
- US Median Annual Salary: $98,580
- Highest Earned: $163,040
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 7%
- Openings Per Year: 77,000
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in business or project management
Job Responsibilities
- Coordinate the budget, schedule, and other details of a project.
- Assign responsibilities to other staff members.
- Monitor project deliverables and related communication with clients.
24. Architect
- US Median Annual Salary: $93,310
- Highest Earned: $151,300
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 8%
- Openings Per Year: 8,500
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in architecture and many also earn a master’s degree in architecture
Job Responsibilities
- Design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures.
- Prepare scaled drawings, either with computer software or by hand.
- Visit building sites to ensure builders follow the design while using specified materials.
25. Web Developer
- US Median Annual Salary: $92,750
- Highest Earned: $176,490
- Projected Growth Rate 2023-2033: 8%
- Openings Per Year: 16,500
- Education: Ranges from a high school diploma to a bachelor’s degree
Job Responsibilities
- Create and maintain websites from the technical side.
- Create the framework for a website and ensure functionality.
- Work with web designers to determine graphics and website layout.
- Monitor website speed and how much traffic it can handle.
Global Salary Comparison of High-Paying Professions: US, UK, and Canada*
| Job Title | US Median Annual Pay | UK Median Annual Pay | Canada Median Annual Pay |
| Pediatric Surgeon | $449,320 | £70,000 | $310,000 CAD |
| Cardiologist | $423,250 | £96,473 | $294,000 CAD |
| Dermatologist | $342,860 | £88,364 | $277,500 CAD |
| Anesthesiologist | $339,470 | £43,416 | $340,996 CAD |
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon | $334,310 | £88,364 | $318,729 CAD |
| Emergency Medicine Physician | $306,640 | £30,000 | $176,395 CAD |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist | $278,660 | £85,740 | $192,724 CAD |
| Psychiatrist | $256,930 | £67,305 | $150,277 CAD |
| Orthodontist | $239,200 | £75,306 | $151,577 CAD |
| Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | $206,680 | £73,153 | $150,183 CAD |
| Pediatrician | $205,860 | £59,322 | $239,652 CAD |
| Airline Pilot | $171,210 | £51,127 | $86,621 CAD |
| Engineering Manager | $165,370 | £112,000 | $149,756 CAD |
| Marketing Manager | $166,410 | £35,950 | $70,197 CAD |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $169,510 | £55,000 | $127,569 CAD |
| Financial Manager | $156,100 | £40,827 | $85,578 CAD |
| Corporate Lawyer | $145,760 | £51,376 | $94,200 CAD |
| Human Resource Manager | $136,350 | £75,000 | $77,217 CAD |
| Pharmacist | $136,030 | £51,667 | $104,593 CAD |
| Software Engineer | $132,270 | £56,420 | $83,266 CAD |
| Veterinarian | $119,000 | £85,735 | $86,983 CAD |
| Data Scientist | $108,020 | £41,567 | $84,599 CAD |
| Project Manager | $98,580 | £47,701 | $79,850 CAD |
| Architect | $93,310 | £38,800 | $102,902 CAD |
| Web Developer | $92,750 | £28,534 | $58,945 CAD |
Salary is a great incentive for choosing a job, but your quality of life should always be a consideration. These high-paying jobs come with a great paycheck, but as you are job hunting, choose something you are passionate about that will be a fulfilling career for YOU!
If you’re interested in landing one of these high-paying jobs, you’ll need to earn a college degree. Use College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool to help find the right college for you!
*We sourced this info via PayScale, Indeed, and Glassdoor
