9 High-Paying Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree in 2025
Let’s face it: a four-year college degree isn’t for everyone. It requires a big investment of time and money, and not everyone wants—or is able—to go down that path. Whether you’re eager to jumpstart your career early, want to avoid student debt, or simply prefer learning on the job, the good news is this: you don’t need a degree to land a well-paying job.
In fact, most Americans don’t have a college degree. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only about one-third of adults over 25 hold a bachelor’s degree. Yet many of them still earn a comfortable income—and so can you.
In this article, we’ll dive into nine high-paying careers that typically don’t require a four-year degree. Some may call for certifications or on-the-job training, but they’re generally far more affordable and faster to complete than a traditional college program. Plus, these jobs are in demand across various industries, from aviation to tech to skilled trades.
Whether you’re more hands-on, a great communicator, or a tech-savvy creative, you’re bound to find something here that fits your strengths.
1. Commercial Pilot
Median Annual Salary: $134,630
If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the skies, this might be your calling. Commercial pilots fly passenger planes, cargo aircraft, and helicopters. Unlike airline captains for major carriers who usually need a degree, many commercial pilot jobs don’t require one.
What you need:
High school diploma or equivalent
Commercial Pilot License from the FAA
Additional certification like the Airline Transport Certificate
While training can take time and money, it’s still typically faster than a four-year degree—and you get to work in one of the most adventurous jobs out there. If you love travel, precision, and don’t mind pressure, this could be a thrilling option.
2. Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Manager
Median Annual Salary: $105,580
These managers keep the logistics world running smoothly. They plan and direct the movement and storage of goods across warehouses and distribution networks, ensuring everything is delivered efficiently and legally.
What you need:
High school diploma
Five or more years of work experience in logistics or warehouse operations
This job is perfect for big-picture thinkers who also sweat the small stuff. If you’re organized, calm under pressure, and good at coordinating teams and processes, this role might be right up your alley.
3. Elevator and Escalator Installer or Repairer
Median Annual Salary: $97,860
If you like tinkering with machines and solving hands-on problems, this career path could be both fulfilling and lucrative. These technicians install and repair elevators, escalators, and other mechanical lifts in buildings.
What you need:
High school diploma
Complete a 4-year paid apprenticeship (sponsored by unions or employers)
Though training takes time, you earn a paycheck while learning. It’s a great opportunity to enter a specialized trade with excellent job stability and high demand.
4. Detective or Criminal Investigator
Median Annual Salary: $90,370
Love crime shows? Real-life detectives gather evidence, conduct interviews, and solve complex cases. It’s a demanding job, but if you’re analytical, persistent, and good with people, it can be deeply rewarding.
What you need:
High school diploma
Police academy training
Work experience as a police officer
Becoming a detective usually involves working your way up from patrol or other law enforcement roles. If you’re passionate about justice and investigation, this role is worth considering.
5. Web Developer
Median Annual Salary: $78,300
The digital world runs on websites—and someone has to build and maintain them. Web developers do just that. It’s one of the few tech jobs that doesn’t require a formal degree, as long as you have the skills.
What you need:
No required degree
Online courses, bootcamps, or certifications can help
A strong portfolio of past work
If you’re both creative and logical, and you enjoy coding and design, web development offers the flexibility to work remotely and earn well in a growing field.
6. Project Coordinator
Median Annual Salary: $74,670
Behind every successful project is someone keeping all the pieces in order—that’s the project coordinator. This role involves organizing schedules, managing budgets, and supporting teams to meet deadlines.
What you need:
High school diploma (some employers prefer a certificate or associate degree)
Industry experience is usually expected
Strong communication and organization skills
This career suits detail-oriented individuals who enjoy helping others succeed and can juggle multiple moving parts.
7. First-Line Supervisor
Median Annual Salary: $61,790–$72,010
First-line supervisors oversee workers in a variety of industries. Whether it’s in construction, maintenance, or manufacturing, their job is to make sure teams operate efficiently and safely.
Examples include:
Construction Supervisor: Requires 5+ years of field experience
Mechanical Supervisor: Overseeing teams of installers or repair techs
If you’re a natural leader who thrives in hands-on environments and values teamwork, this job path could be a great fit.
8. Aircraft Mechanic or Service Technician
Median Annual Salary: $65,550
If you’re fascinated by aviation but don’t want to be a pilot, consider maintaining the planes instead. Aircraft mechanics inspect, repair, and ensure planes are safe and airworthy.
What you need:
High school diploma
FAA-approved training program or military experience
Certification (Airframe and/or Powerplant)
It’s a perfect match for mechanically inclined individuals who enjoy solving complex problems and working in high-stakes environments.
9. Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representative
Median Annual Salary: $62,890
Sales can be a lucrative career—especially when you’re selling products in bulk to businesses, rather than individual customers. Sales reps in this space can earn solid base salaries plus commission, which means your income potential is high.
What you need:
High school diploma
On-the-job training (up to a year)
Optional certifications like CPMR or CSP
If you’re a strong communicator who enjoys building relationships and doesn’t mind hitting targets, this could be a high-earning path without a degree.
Final Thoughts
A college degree can be a great investment, but it’s not the only route to success. As the job market evolves, more and more employers are focusing on skills, experience, and certifications rather than formal education.
Whether you want to work in the skies, build websites, fix machines, or manage teams, the opportunities are out there. With determination, training, and a bit of strategy, you can land a high-paying job without ever stepping foot in a college classroom.
So if you’re wondering whether skipping college will hold you back—rest assured, it won’t. The world needs talented, skilled people in all kinds of roles. One of them might just be perfect for you.
