Top Jobs That Pay Over $60K Without a Degree

Did someone tell you that you need a four-year degree to earn big? While college works great for some, it's not the only ticket to a well-paying career. In fact, plenty of high-paying jobs don’t require a bachelor's degree at all—some don't even ask for an associate's. What do they ask for? Skills, experience, and a drive to learn on the job.

So, what are your options if you want to earn $60K or more without diving into student debt? Here’s a list of 10 top jobs where a degree isn’t necessary—but the paycheck is still impressive.

Commercial Pilot

Average Salary: $95,000 – $130,000

Dream of flying high without spending years in school? Becoming a commercial pilot could be your calling.

Now, let’s be clear—you still need training. A commercial pilot’s license requires flight school and FAA certifications, but you won’t need a college degree. Many regional airlines and charter companies hire pilots based on flying hours and certifications alone.

Perks:

Travel around the world
High demand for cargo and regional airlines
Great pay and room to grow

Quick Tip: Start with a private pilot license and build your hours from there.

Web Developer

Average Salary: $65,000 – $110,000+

Are you good at solving problems and building things online? Web development might be a perfect match.

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You can learn everything you need online—HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React. Many developers are self-taught or come from coding bootcamps. Employers care more about your portfolio than your degree.

Why It’s Great:

You can work remotely
Freelancing is an option
Constant demand for websites and web apps

Real Talk: You’ll need to build a strong portfolio. Start with small projects and work your way up.

Elevator and Escalator Installer

Average Salary: $85,000 – $100,000

Ever think about how much precision goes into elevators? This is a hands-on job with a big paycheck—and no college required.

Instead, most learn through apprenticeships and on-the-job training. You'll work in construction, maintenance, and repairs.

Why Consider It:

Strong union support and benefits
High earning potential early on
One of the highest-paying skilled trades

Heads Up: It’s physically demanding, and safety is key.

Radiation Therapist

Average Salary: $75,000 – $100,000

Helping cancer patients and earning a solid paycheck? This is a career with purpose.

Radiation therapists operate machines that deliver radiation treatments. You'll need a certification or associate degree from an accredited program, but not a four-year degree.

Job Highlights:

Meaningful, patient-facing work
Stable employment in healthcare
Typically 40-hour workweeks

Bonus: Many hospitals offer on-the-job training for the right candidate.

Police Officer or Detective

Average Salary: $65,000 – $110,000+ (with experience and specialization)

If you're driven to serve and protect, law enforcement could be a career worth exploring.

While requirements vary by state, many police departments don’t require a college degree—just a high school diploma and police academy training.

Perks:

Opportunities for promotion
Pension and solid benefits
Variety—no two days are the same

Note: Specialized roles (like homicide detective or federal agent) often pay more as you move up.

Real Estate Agent

Average Salary: $60,000 – $150,000+ (Commission-based)

Got the gift of gab and a love for houses? Real estate might be your goldmine.

You’ll need to pass a licensing exam, but no degree is required. Income is commission-based, so your earnings depend on how many homes you help buy or sell.

Why It Rocks:

Flexible hours
Unlimited earning potential
No cap on how far you can go

Pro Tip: Get a mentor and focus on a niche market to stand out.

Electrician

Average Salary: $65,000 – $95,000

If you enjoy problem-solving and working with your hands, becoming an electrician might be the spark you're looking for.

You’ll enter through an apprenticeship, which mixes classroom training with real-world experience. No degree needed.

Benefits:

Always in demand
Specialization (like solar energy or industrial systems) increases pay
Ability to start your own business

Heads Up: Licensing requirements vary by state, so be sure to check locally.

IT Support Specialist

Average Salary: $60,000 – $85,000

Tech-savvy and love helping people? IT support might be your jam.

No degree? No problem. Many companies care more about your certifications (like CompTIA or Google IT Support) and problem-solving skills.

Why It Works:

Easy to start and grow
High demand in every industry
Many transition into higher-paying tech roles

Next Step: Build your way into roles like network admin or cybersecurity analyst—both of which also pay six figures.

HVAC Technician

Average Salary: $65,000 – $90,000

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—HVAC pros make homes and businesses livable. And they earn big while doing it.

You’ll need to complete a training program and get licensed, but not a college degree. Many employers even sponsor apprenticeships.

Why It’s a Win:

Year-round work
Service + repair = stable income
Strong career growth

Tip: Specializing in commercial systems or green energy can boost your salary.

Commercial Truck Driver

Average Salary: $60,000 – $95,000

Love the open road? A career as a trucker might be more lucrative than you think.

With a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you can start earning fast. Long-haul routes, especially, pay well, and some offer signing bonuses.

Highlights:

Freedom and travel
Short training period (just a few weeks)
Demand is sky-high

Reality Check: Life on the road can be tough. But for many, the rewards are worth it.

What These Jobs Have In Common

No college degree required
Skill-based and hands-on
Strong growth potential
Pay that starts around $60K—and often climbs higher

If you're worried that skipping college means missing out, think again. These roles prove that experience, dedication, and certifications can take you just as far, sometimes further.

Thinking Of Making A Change?

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to switch careers, there are plenty of opportunities to earn well without a four-year degree. Start with your strengths: Are you analytical? Great with your hands? Love tech? Crave adventure? Then pick a path that fits—and go for it. The money’s out there. You just have to know where to look.