10 Jobs Earning More Than Doctors: Surprising High-Pay Careers

Many believe a doctor’s salary is the pinnacle of earnings, and indeed, medical professionals in the U.S. often make over $180,000 annually, with specialists earning even more. It’s a rewarding path, both financially and in terms of impact. However, several other professions offer comparable, if not higher, salaries, sometimes with a shorter educational journey. Let’s explore ten such careers that might surprise you!

10. Air Traffic Controller

Ever wondered about the skill it takes to guide planes? It’s not just about preventing mid-air collisions; air traffic controllers are masters of ground control at bustling airports. They orchestrate arrivals and departures around the clock, ensuring flights land safely and depart on schedule. This high-pressure job involves managing congested airspace and runways, a task that commands a significant salary. Depending on the airport’s size, they can earn around $120,000 per year.

9. Lawyer

Lawyers are entrusted with a deep understanding of specific legal areas. Clients pay generously for their expertise to safeguard interests, whether it’s defending against criminal allegations or managing estate affairs. While many picture lawyers dramatically arguing in court, much of their work involves meticulous negotiation and settlement in quieter settings. The truth is, avoiding protracted court battles is often in everyone’s best interest. On average, lawyers make $127,000 annually, with specialists in high-profile fields earning considerably more, often needed to offset law school debts.

8. Judge

It stands to reason that judges earn more than lawyers. While sharing many skills with attorneys, a judge’s role carries greater responsibility and authority. The limited number of judicial positions makes this a prestigious career. Imagine getting paid to make critical decisions, command respect in the courtroom, wield a gavel, and wear distinguished robes! Becoming a judge brings instant admiration and a substantial paycheck. Depending on the jurisdiction, a judge can earn between $162,000 and $185,000 a year. Many serve for decades, potentially moving to federal courts where salaries can exceed $280,000.

7. Airline Pilot

Operating a massive aircraft, with its complex controls, is even more intricate than directing airport traffic. Airline pilots are responsible for the safety of dozens of passengers, flying them thousands of feet in the air. The pressure is immense, yet they maintain composure, even during intercom announcements. While the path to becoming a pilot is demanding, it’s achievable with a bachelor’s degree in aviation, 1,500 flight hours, and various licenses. A pilot’s salary ranges from $110,000 to $200,000, varying by airline.

6. State Governor

Politics, like it or not, can be a financially rewarding arena. Elected state governors receive a base salary that, depending on the state, ranges from $92,000 to $204,000 per year. This figure multiplies significantly over a four-year term. If re-elected, those at the higher end of the salary scale can earn over a million dollars in eight years. This doesn’t even include contributions from lobbyists with special interests, who often fund campaigns long before an election.

5. Voice Actor

Voice acting sounds like incredibly fun work—sitting in a booth, using expressive tones to animate characters. However, breaking into this field is tougher than it appears. Renowned voice actors often have backgrounds in stage acting and approach their craft with immense seriousness. It’s demanding work; each line might require multiple takes, and the vocal strain necessitates rigorous warmups and training for vocal health. Depending on their roles, voice actors can earn up to $217,000 annually. Recent controversies, however, highlight the ongoing discussions about fair compensation in the industry.

4. Large Commercial Farmer

Historically, farming was often linked with poverty. However, agriculture has always been a cornerstone of civilization and power. Those who produce the most food often wield significant influence and wealth. While the agricultural landscape is more complex today, top commercial farmers still earn substantial incomes. The largest farmers in America can make up to $245,000 a year, a far cry from outdated stereotypes.

3. Pro Gamer

Imagine getting paid to play video games! This isn’t about game testing; it’s about the world of e-sports, where top players compete for massive cash prizes in popular games like Street Fighter or Call of Duty. These competitive gamers dedicate their lives to achieving peak performance, reaching skill levels far beyond an average player. For instance, the Dallas Fuel won the 2022 Overwatch League, earning $1.5 million, which meant about $166,000 for each team member. Top Twitch streamers earn even more; Richard “Ninja” Blevins reportedly earns $500,000 a month playing Fortnite for millions of viewers.

2. Astronaut

While many forget complex math after school, astronauts use it daily. This career combines expertise in astronomy, mathematics, physics, and engineering (both electrical and mechanical). Astronauts must also maintain peak physical fitness to handle demanding missions and solve problems in the harsh environment of space. Essentially, they need to be both academically brilliant and physically adept. For this unique combination of skills, astronauts can earn around $393,000 a year.

1. Celebrity Bodyguard

Of all the jobs on this list, this might seem the most straightforward to prepare for, though it involves significant risk and physical training. Celebrities hire formidable individuals to protect them from overzealous fans or unwanted attention. High-profile clients, such as actors, politicians, or musicians, pay generously for this protection. Those willing to put themselves in harm’s way can earn handsomely. Depending on the client, a bodyguard’s pay can range from $250,000 to $800,000 per year. It’s truly a high-risk, high-reward profession.

While a doctor’s career is undoubtedly lucrative and impactful, it’s clear that many other professions offer impressive financial rewards. From the skies to the courtroom, and even into virtual worlds, high-paying opportunities abound for those with specialized skills and dedication.

What other high-paying careers do you know of? Leave your comment below!