College isn’t for everyone, and jobs that don't require a college degree but pay $100,000 annually are in more abundance than you might think. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly a quarter of all jobs don’t require a degree, and countless earners in that category easily make six figures. That’s $60,000 higher than the average income touted by the U.S. Census. Meanwhile, the average 4-year stint at college will set you back $146,000, including tuition and fees, room and board, books, supplies, and other expenses. Employers like Walmart are now easing education requirements for some positions, joining firms like Apple, Google, and Bank of America. Big box stores are now offering bigger bonuses and stock options, with some workers seeing their compensation swell to more than $400,000. Here are some of the positions where the most money can be made, without having to worry about a college degree.
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| Owner-Operator Driver - $320,000 An owner-operator driver is essentially anyone who owns or leases their own truck — or trucking business — to deliver goods. All you need is a commercial driver's license and a vehicle. |
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Radiation Therapist - $120,000 Radiation therapists - while not doctors - work closely with cancer treatment teams to administer radiation to patients who are suffering from cancer. They also take X-rays and maintain patient records. |
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Construction Manager - $100,000 General contractors are tasked with controlling the quality of any given project's scope, time, and cost to achieve the project owner's particular vision. Typical projects include building public, residential, commercial, and industrial structures, as well as roads and bridges. |
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Makeup Artist - $134,000 Opportunities for makeup artists are almost endless, including entertainment, fashion, and cosmetic service, as well as independent employers. Most require makeup artists to complete a 1,000-hour approved course to receive the necessary credentials, but no other schooling is needed. |
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Senior Real Estate Manager - $140,000 Real estate managers oversee many aspects of residential, commercial, or industrial properties. They usually work in an office setting but may spend part of their workday on tasks away from the office, such as showing apartments, inspecting the grounds, or meeting with owners. All you need to get started is a high school diploma or the equivalent. |
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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator - $104,000 Nuclear power reactor operators are responsible for overseeing the flow of energy at one of the country's 54 operating nuclear power plants, and controlling the equipment necessary to do so. Critical thinking and clear decision-making skills prove paramount for prospective applicants, who, despite the intricacies that go with the position, don't always need a college degree. They are usually required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. |
