25 Low-Stress Jobs That Pay Well Without a Degree: Practical Tips and Insights

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 7 min read

Discovering low stress jobs that pay well without a degree can seem like a daunting task, but it's definitely achievable. The key is to identify careers that suit your skills and interests, while providing a comfortable income. In this blog post, we'll be exploring 25 practical options, starting with an in-depth look at web development.

1. Web Developer

Web development is a field where you can create and maintain websites for clients or organizations. As a web developer, you'll be responsible for designing, coding, and modifying websites to meet specific requirements. This profession is perfect if you enjoy working with technology and have a creative flair.

Skills and Requirements

Here are some key skills and requirements to succeed as a web developer:

Technical skills: Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is a must. Familiarity with other programming languages (such as PHP or Python) and web frameworks (like React or Angular) can also be beneficial.
Creativity: A knack for designing visually appealing and user-friendly websites will set you apart in the job market.
Problem-solving: Web developers often need to troubleshoot issues and come up with effective solutions to keep a site running smoothly.
Communication: You'll need to be able to collaborate with clients or team members to ensure you're meeting their expectations.
Self-motivation: Many web developers are self-taught, so having the drive to learn new skills and stay updated on industry trends is essential.

While formal education isn't necessary, taking online courses or attending boot camps can help you gain the knowledge needed for a successful career in web development.

Potential Salary

Web developers can earn a respectable income, even without a degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for web developers in 2020 was $77,200. Keep in mind that your salary may vary depending on factors like experience, location, and the size of the company you work for.

Job Growth

The job outlook for web developers is promising, with a projected 8% growth rate from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for mobile and e-commerce applications, as well as the need for user-friendly websites. In short, web development is a low stress job that pays well without a degree — and offers plenty of room for career advancement.

2. Dental Hygienist

Moving on from the world of technology, let's explore a healthcare profession that offers low stress and good pay without a degree: dental hygiene. As a dental hygienist, you'll work alongside dentists to provide preventive oral care, clean teeth, and educate patients on maintaining good oral health.

Skills and Requirements

Here's what you need to succeed as a dental hygienist:

Training: While a degree isn't necessary, you will need to complete an accredited dental hygiene program, which typically takes about three years.
Licensing: Dental hygienists must obtain a license to practice in their state. This usually involves passing a written exam and a clinical board examination.
Manual dexterity: You'll be working with small tools in a patient's mouth, so precision and steady hands are important.
Interpersonal skills: Building rapport with patients and communicating effectively with dentists and other team members is crucial.
Attention to detail: Spotting potential oral health issues requires a keen eye and thorough assessments.

Although some formal training is required, dental hygiene is still a viable option for those seeking low stress jobs that pay well without a degree.

Potential Salary

As a dental hygienist, you can expect a comfortable salary. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median annual wage for dental hygienists in 2020 was $77,090. Keep in mind that factors such as experience, location, and the type of practice you work in can impact your earnings.

Job Growth

The job outlook for dental hygienists is positive, with an expected growth rate of 6% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth can be attributed to the increased demand for dental services as the population ages and becomes more aware of the importance of preventive oral care. So, if you're looking for a stable, low stress job that pays well without a degree, dental hygiene might be the perfect fit for you.

3. Commercial Pilot

Switching gears from healthcare, let's take to the skies and talk about becoming a commercial pilot. Flying planes for a living can be an exciting and rewarding career choice, with the added benefit of being low stress and well-paying without needing a college degree. Commercial pilots fly planes for a variety of purposes, such as transporting passengers, cargo, or conducting aerial tours.

Skills and Requirements

Here are the key skills and requirements for becoming a commercial pilot:

Flight training: You'll need to complete flight training from a certified flight school or instructor to gain the necessary experience and knowledge to fly.
Licensing: To become a commercial pilot, you must obtain a commercial pilot's license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This involves passing a written exam, logging a minimum number of flight hours, and successfully completing a practical flight test.
Physical fitness: Pilots must pass a medical exam to ensure they are physically fit to fly.
Decision-making skills: Pilots must make quick, accurate decisions in high-pressure situations to ensure the safety of the aircraft and passengers.
Communication skills: Clear communication with air traffic controllers, crew members, and passengers is vital for a smooth flight.

While some training and licensing are required, becoming a commercial pilot is still an attainable low stress job that pays well without a degree.

Potential Salary

Commercial pilots can earn a substantial income. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for commercial pilots in 2020 was $93,300. However, factors such as experience, employer, and location can influence your potential earnings.

Job Growth

The job outlook for commercial pilots looks promising, with an expected growth rate of 9% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth can be attributed to an increasing demand for air travel, as well as the need to replace retiring pilots. So, if you've ever dreamed of flying high in a low stress job that pays well without a degree, becoming a commercial pilot could be your ticket to success.

4. Electrician

Returning to the ground, let's explore another low stress job that pays well without a degree: becoming an electrician. Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They ensure that we have access to the power we need in our daily lives, making this career not only rewarding but also essential.

Skills and Requirements

Here are the main skills and requirements for becoming an electrician:

Apprenticeship: Electricians typically learn through an apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs typically last 4-5 years and are often sponsored by unions or contractor associations.
Licensing: Most states require electricians to be licensed, which involves passing an exam that tests their knowledge of electrical theory, building codes, and safety practices.
Problem-solving skills: Electricians need to identify and diagnose electrical issues, then determine the best course of action to fix them.
Manual dexterity: Working with small tools and components requires steady hands and good hand-eye coordination.
Physical fitness: Electricians often need to lift heavy equipment, climb ladders, and work in tight spaces, so being physically fit is important.

With some hands-on training and a commitment to learning the trade, you can become an electrician and enjoy a low stress job that pays well without a degree.

Potential Salary

The earning potential for electricians is quite attractive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians in 2020 was $56,900. However, experienced electricians working in specialized industries or locations can earn significantly higher wages.

Job Growth

Job prospects for electricians are looking bright, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increased demand for electrical work in construction, as well as the need to maintain and upgrade existing electrical systems. With a solid job outlook and great earning potential, becoming an electrician is an excellent choice for those seeking low stress jobs that pay well without a degree.

5. Real Estate Agent

Next on our list of low stress jobs that pay well without a degree is the exciting world of real estate. Real estate agents help people buy, sell, and rent properties, making this career both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling. As a real estate agent, you'll have the chance to guide people through one of the most significant decisions of their lives, while also enjoying the benefits of a flexible schedule and potentially high earnings.

Skills and Requirements

Here are the main skills and requirements for becoming a successful real estate agent:

Real estate license: All states require real estate agents to be licensed, which involves completing a pre-licensing course and passing a state exam. Requirements vary by state, so be sure to check the specific regulations in your area.
Communication skills: Real estate agents need to be excellent communicators, as they work closely with clients, other agents, and various professionals throughout the buying, selling, or renting process.
Negotiation skills: A key part of a real estate agent's job is to negotiate the best possible deals for their clients, so developing strong negotiation skills is essential.
Local market knowledge: Being well-versed in the local real estate market is crucial for helping clients make informed decisions.
Self-motivation: As a real estate agent, you'll often work independently, so being self-motivated and disciplined is important for achieving success in this field.

With the right combination of skills and motivation, you can become a real estate agent and enjoy a low stress job that pays well without a degree.

Potential Salary

Real estate agents typically earn a commission based on the value of the properties they help buy, sell, or rent. This means your earning potential can be quite high, especially in a thriving real estate market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for real estate agents in 2020 was $49,040. However, top-performing agents can earn significantly more.

Job Growth

The job outlook for real estate agents is fairly stable, with a projected growth rate of 2% from 2019 to 2029, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, job opportunities may vary depending on the state of the real estate market in your area. With a flexible schedule, high earning potential, and the chance to help people find their dream homes, becoming a real estate agent is an attractive option for those seeking low stress jobs that pay well without a degree.

If you're looking to turn your passion for travel into a sustainable lifestyle, don't miss Jasmine MacPhee's workshop, 'How to Earn a Living and Travel the World'. This workshop offers invaluable advice on how to combine your wanderlust with a steady income, enabling you to explore the world while maintaining financial stability.