Introduction:
For years, society has told us that in order to be successful and rich, we must go to college. However, the reality is that pursuing a formal education can leave you in financial ruin. The average college graduate in the United States in 2019 left school with $37,172 in student loans, which takes the average person roughly 20 years to pay off. In this article, we will explore 7 of the highest-paying jobs that do not require a college degree.
Why Avoiding College May Be A Good Idea
While the average annual income for participants in a recent survey was $60,000, many respondents struggled with high debt-to-income ratios which made loan repayments difficult, or in some cases, impossible. 18% of respondents reported.
that they were in default on at least one student loan and 44% indicated that they would struggle to make their next student loan payment. In fact, the same study outlined that 80% of participants said that their student debt hindered their ability for retirement, 56% said it made it impossible to buy a home, and 42% said it interfered with buying a car.
7 High-Paying Jobs That Do Not Require a College Degree
1.Physical Therapy Assistant
Physical therapy assistants work directly under physical therapists, usually in hospital or outpatient office settings. They are responsible for implementing and guiding the treatment of patients recovering from serious physical injuries and illnesses. The median salary for this job in the United States in 2018 was $48,090, with top earners making just under $80,000 a year. The demand for these individuals is steadily growing, with an expected 30% increase in job growth by 2026.
2.Avionics Technician
Avionics technicians maintain and repair aircraft avionics systems, the same systems that keep planes in the air throughout the course of their flights. While this job isn't a standard white-collar desk job, it can be very rewarding if you enjoy working with your hands and making a small but critical contribution to the modern aviation industry.
Aviation trades employees are typically union workers, which means higher wages, better benefits, and safer working conditions. The median salary for this job in the United States in 2018 was $63,060, with top earners making just under $95,000 a year.
3.Patrol Officer
If you've ever wanted to fight crime and get paid for it, becoming a patrol officer may be the job for you. While each jurisdiction has its own educational requirements for patrol officers, in many areas, a high school diploma is sufficient. However, there is training that you must complete to obtain this role.
You'll go through a training academy where you'll learn about key legal codes, first aid, firearms, patrol protocol, and more. The median salary for this job in the United States in 2018 was $61,380, with top earners making over $80,000 a year.
4.Electrician
Electricians design lighting systems, install streetlights and intercom systems, ensure electrical work is up to code, and repair electrical wiring. While electricians don't need to obtain a four-year degree to assume this role, they must go through at least four years of training as an apprentice followed by licensing required by their state. The median salary for this job in the United States in 2018 was $55,190, with top earners making over $94,000 a year.
5.Plumber
Plumbers install and repair pipes that carry water, gas, and waste. While a high school diploma is required, plumbers must complete a 4-5 year apprenticeship program and obtain a license. The median salary