15 highest-paying, Llow-stress jobs for new year 2025. As we enter 2025, the focus on mental health and well-being has never been more prominent, prompting job seekers to prioritize work-life balance when looking for new opportunities. The demand for jobs that offer both competitive salaries and lower stress levels is on the rise, as individuals increasingly seek roles that foster a healthier lifestyle and protect their mental well-being. The 2025 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs Report by Resume Genius highlights 15 professions that provide a promising mix of financial security and manageable stress.
The analysis for the report was based on data from O*NET’s Stress Tolerance database, which filtered out jobs with stress tolerance scores higher than 60. These roles not only meet the national median salary of $48,060 but also show faster-than-average growth, making them ideal for those looking for a stable and low-stress career path.
Among the top 15 highest-paying, low-stress jobs are positions like Water Resource Specialist with an annual salary of $157,740 and an 8% job growth rate, and Astronomer, earning $149,530 annually with a 7% increase in job demand expected by 2033. Other prominent roles include Actuaries, earning $120,000 with a 23% job growth, and Environmental Economists, making $115,730 with steady job demand. These roles generally require a bachelor’s degree, with some positions, like astronomer and mathematician, requiring advanced degrees.
Not only do these careers provide lucrative pay, but they also offer a better work-life balance compared to more high-stress roles. For example, Geographers and Transportation Planners, with salaries around $90,000 and $81,800 respectively, provide fulfilling careers in planning and analysis without the intense pressure seen in other high-paying fields.
Additionally, the report highlights more accessible positions like Taper ($57,010), Pump Operators ($54,690), and Tire Builders ($54,080) which require minimal formal education but offer competitive salaries and moderate job growth.
As more employees feel the toll of burnout, with over 51% of workers reporting stress-related fatigue in 2024, it’s clear that job seekers are prioritizing their well-being alongside their financial aspirations. The trend of seeking a healthy work-life balance is becoming increasingly important, especially as remote and hybrid work environments become more common.
Eva Chan, a career expert at Resume Genius, underscores the importance of clear job descriptions, manageable workloads, and company policies on remote work and paid time off. These factors, along with a healthy workplace culture, are crucial in maintaining a balance that supports both career growth and personal well-being.
A Growing Focus on Non-Degree Jobs with High Pay
While a college degree is often considered essential for many high-paying careers, recent studies have also spotlighted jobs that do not require formal education but still offer impressive salaries. Commercial pilots, for instance, can earn around $176,000 annually without a college degree, and dental hygienists can bring in $169,000 with just an associate’s degree. Other high-paying, non-degree jobs include Aircraft Mechanics and Radiation Therapists, who earn upwards of $100,000 annually, underscoring the changing landscape of job opportunities outside the traditional college track.
Final Thoughts
As AI and technology continue to reshape the job market, opportunities are emerging for individuals to succeed without a formal degree. Choosing a career path that balances both mental health and financial success is possible, and with the right role, individuals can thrive both personally and professionally. The key lies in finding a job that suits one’s lifestyle and goals, while ensuring long-term growth and stability. The future of work is moving towards positions that offer not only financial rewards but also the flexibility and support needed to maintain a healthy life outside the office.
