In today’s fast-paced world, finding a career that combines a good salary with low stress can feel like searching for a unicorn. However, certain jobs offer just that—a comfortable living without the high-pressure environment commonly associated with well-paying positions. Here are seven such careers across various industries that not only provide financial stability but also maintain a manageable stress level, each with an average annual salary of over $70,000.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers play a crucial role in making complex information accessible. They produce manuals, guides, and documents that explain technical details in a way that’s easy for non-experts to understand. With a focus on clarity and precision, the job often allows for a quiet, focused work environment, leading to lower stress levels. On average, technical writers earn around $78,000 a year.
Agricultural Engineer
Agricultural Engineers apply engineering principles to the agricultural industry, working on a range of issues from designing machinery and equipment to solving environmental challenges in farming. This role offers the satisfaction of contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture, with the added benefits of working in serene outdoor settings and earning an average annual salary of $79,000.
Audiologist
Audiologists specialize in ear health, particularly relating to hearing loss and balance disorders. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, providing patient care that improves quality of life. The role is known for its low-stress environment, thanks to regular hours and the nature of the work. Audiologists can expect to earn over $100,000 annually on average.
Ship Engineer
Ship Engineers ensure that the mechanical and electrical systems of a vessel run smoothly. This career is ideal for those who love the sea and are interested in engineering. While the job can be demanding, it typically offers structured schedules and periods of downtime. The average annual salary for ship engineers is around $74,000.
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty. They work primarily in the insurance industry but also in other sectors, providing assessments that help companies plan for the future. The job involves a lot of desk work and number crunching, which can be highly engaging for the right person, with an average salary of $110,000.
These careers exemplify that it’s possible to earn a good salary without sacrificing peace of mind. Whether you’re drawn to the quiet concentration of technical writing, the satisfaction of helping others as an audiologist, or the strategic thinking required as an actuary, there’s a low-stress job out there that can offer both financial security and a balanced work-life experience.