Low Stress Jobs That Pay Well Without a Degree
Not everyone wants a high-pressure career that demands long hours, constant emails, and expensive degrees. If you’re looking for a job that pays well but doesn’t require a college diploma - and lets you sleep at night without work anxiety - you’re not alone.
The good news is, there are real jobs out there that check those boxes. Here are a few low stress careers that can bring in a solid income without needing a four-year degree.
1. Wind Turbine Technician
Median salary: $57,000 - $65,000
Training required: Technical school or certificate program
This job involves maintaining and repairing wind turbines. It’s hands-on, outdoors, and generally independent work. While you’ll need to be comfortable with heights, the work environment tends to be low stress, especially compared to desk jobs with constant deadlines.
2. Commercial Driver (CDL)
Median salary: $50,000 - $70,000+
Training required: Commercial driver’s license (CDL), often completed in under 2 months
Driving a truck might not sound glamorous, but it can offer peace and quiet on the open road and a reliable paycheck. Long-haul drivers, in particular, can earn well into the $70k range, and many companies offer signing bonuses or benefits without requiring a degree.
3. HVAC Technician
Median salary: $48,000 - $65,000+
Training required: Apprenticeship or vocational program
HVAC techs install and repair heating and cooling systems in homes and buildings. It’s typically a stable, in-demand job that doesn’t come with constant deadlines or micromanagement. It also allows for solo work, which many people find less stressful.
4. Elevator Installer/Repairer
Median salary: $80,000+
Training required: Apprenticeship and licensing (no degree required)
One of the highest-paying trades out there, elevator mechanics are in short supply and high demand. The work is technical but steady, and while safety is important, the day-to-day pace is not rushed or high-pressure.
5. Medical Records Technician
Median salary: $45,000 - $60,000
Training required: Certificate program or associate degree
If you’re looking for something more administrative, this job involves organizing and managing health information. It’s quiet, office-based work with minimal physical stress and very little face-to-face interaction.
6. Groundskeeper or Landscaper (with private clients)
Median salary: Varies - $35,000 to $60,000+ depending on client base
Training required: None formal, though experience helps
While not always considered a “career” job, running your own landscaping business or working for private estates can offer good money with very little pressure. For people who enjoy being outdoors and working with their hands, this is a peaceful and rewarding option.
7. Line Installer or Cable Technician
Median salary: $50,000 - $70,000+
Training required: On-the-job training or short-term technical courses
These roles involve installing or repairing electrical or telecom lines. While it’s physical, it’s not mentally draining. Most of the job involves working with a small crew, handling routine tasks without constant client demands or deadlines.
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