Trade jobs are becoming increasingly popular due to their attractive salaries and job stability. These jobs usually require vocational schooling or specialized training instead of a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree. Here, we highlight the top 12 highest-paying trade jobs in demand for 2023, based on data from Indeed.com.
What is a Trade Job?
A trade job is a career path that typically doesn’t require a four-year college degree but focuses on specialized training instead. There are various ways to gain training for a trade job, such as:
- An associate degree
- Vocational school
- On-the-job training
- Apprenticeships
Trade schools and apprenticeships are often more time and cost-effective when compared to college education.
Highest-Paying Trade Jobs in 2023
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a trade job in the U.S. is $58,260, and the average job growth rate between 2021 and 2031 is 5%. Here are the top 12 highest-paying trade jobs to consider, listed with their national average salary, required education, and job outlook from 2021 to 2031:
- Ultrasonographer: National average salary: $141,126, Required education: Associate degree, Job outlook: 10%, faster than average
- Radiation Therapist: National average salary: $121,591, Required education: Associate degree, Job outlook: 6%, as fast as average
- Respiratory Therapist: National average salary: $98,673, Required education: Associate degree, Job outlook: 14%, much faster than average
- Dental Hygienist: National average salary: $96,298, Required education: Associate degree, Job outlook: 9%, faster than average
- Construction Manager: National average salary: $83,238, Required education: Bachelor’s degree, Job outlook: 8%, faster than average
- Aircraft Mechanic: National average salary: $77,773, Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award or associate degree, Job outlook: 6%, as fast as average
- Cable Technician: National average salary: $77,758, Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award, Job outlook: 8%, faster than average
- Industrial Mechanic: National average salary: $67,860, Required education: Postsecondary non-degree award, Job outlook: 14%, much faster than average
- Solar Installer: National average salary: $67,213, Required education: High school diploma or equivalent, Job outlook: 27%, much faster than average
- Real Estate Appraiser: National average salary: $64,246, Required education: High school diploma or equivalent, Job outlook: 4%, as fast as average
- Plumber: National average salary: $60,370, Required education: High school diploma or equivalent, Job outlook: 4%, as fast as average
- Electrician: National average salary: $56,989, Required education: High school diploma or equivalent, Job outlook: 8%, faster than average
Conclusion
Trade jobs offer great potential for individuals seeking a rewarding and well-paying career without the need for a traditional college degree. With various fields to choose from and multiple paths to gain the required skills, trade jobs are well worth considering for those who want stability, job growth, and attractive salary prospects.
