5 High-Paying Jobs That Don’t Require Any College Degree
For a long time, many Americans thought the only way to make a good living was by earning a diploma. But that isn’t always true. A study by LendingTree found that in 2023, around 5.7 million full-time American workers without bachelor’s degrees earned $100,000 or more. Here are five high-paying jobs you can land with no degree required.
Waste Management
Waste management professionals and garbage collectors play an essential role in keeping communities clean and healthy. The work is active and outdoors, with shifts that can run from the typical 9 to 5 to early mornings or late nights. For people who like staying active, it’s a way to earn a living while getting exercise on the job.
The role requires physical strength and coordination, from driving the truck and operating its hydraulic system to lifting and loading items. While it may not be the first career that comes to mind, it can be surprisingly rewarding. In the US, trash collectors and dump truck drivers earn an average annual salary of $55,222, according to Indeed. On top of that, waste management jobs remain stable since trash always needs to be collected.
UPS Driver
Many people think delivering packages is just a side gig, but at UPS, drivers often make salaries that rival corporate roles. With the growth of online shopping and ongoing labor shortages, this job is in high demand. Full-time UPS small package delivery drivers earn an average of $145,000 a year, while long-haul team drivers average $172,000. After four years, UPS also pays $0.95 per mile. Drivers receive solid benefits and flexible scheduling as well.
Working conditions can be tough. Drivers stand for long hours, lift heavy packages, and deal with all types of weather. But for those who enjoy working with people, being on the road, and having a stable career with growth opportunities, it can be a great fit.
Trades (Welder, Repairman, Plumber)
If you like challenging, physical work, a trade job could be a good choice. Because of the demand for specialized skills, many of these jobs require vocational training, but the pay reflects that.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), trade workers make an average of $28.06 an hour, or about $58,360 a year—higher than many other jobs with the same or less formal education. Specialized roles such as elevator installers, boilermakers, and pile driver operators earn even more. Common trades like electricians, building inspectors, and construction supervisors also rank among the highest-paid in the sector.
Sales (Tech Sales Or Other Sales)
Sales covers much more than working in a store. Almost every industry relies on sales professionals, from healthcare and education to transportation and IT. The job usually involves finding new customers, maintaining relationships with existing ones, and offering solutions. This means you can find a sales role in an area that truly interests you.
Even without a bachelor’s degree, there are many entry-level positions that pay above average. According to Indeed, salespeople make around $74,062 on average and can earn up to $160,614. Because many jobs are commission-based, the earning potential is often much higher.
Admin Support (Unionized)
Administrative support roles are often the unsung backbone of an office. By handling paperwork, communication, and scheduling, they keep everything running smoothly. In some workplaces, they also manage supplies, handle vendor coordination, and oversee day-to-day operations.
In 2024, the BLS reported a median annual salary of $47,460 for these roles. But pay depends on company, location, and position—and union membership makes a big difference. Unionized admin support workers had a median weekly pay of $1,100 versus $911 for nonunion peers. That’s about $57,200 a year compared to $47,372, nearly $10,000 more annually.
Bonus: Starting Your Own Small Business
Did you know that 56% of entrepreneurs don’t hold a college diploma? Success rates are similar to those who do, but starting a business is far from easy. It takes planning, research, funding, and a strong strategy. You’ll need to choose the right structure, secure permits, market your products or services, and build a client base. Without a solid plan, the risks are high.
Still, the rewards can be worth it. According to Glassdoor, the annual median pay for entrepreneurs is $132,000. As a business owner, your profit potential isn’t capped, giving you the chance to grow your income and value on your own terms.
These careers show that a degree isn’t the only path to earning well. With the right skills and determination, you can carve out a future that’s both secure and rewarding. You’ve got this!
