25 Best Jobs in the US and How Much They Pay in 2026

When it comes to your career path, it can be quite overwhelming to choose a direction that feels right for you. That's why we've compiled a comprehensive list of the top 25 jobs in the US for the upcoming year, along with their average salaries. Let's dive in!

Top 25 jobs in the US in 2026

1. Computer and information systems manager

• Median annual salary: $169,510
• Projected growth rate: 17%
• Projected number of new jobs: 106,900

Computer and information systems managers play a vital role in overseeing a company's computer-related activities. They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing IT-related projects while ensuring the safety of their data.

2. Financial managers

• Median annual salary: $156,100
• Projected growth rate: 17%
• Projected number of new jobs: 138,300

Financial managers guide businesses on investments, craft long-term financial strategies, and ensure that resources are managed efficiently. This means knowing their way around company finances and being able to tackle the challenges surrounding them.

3. Computer and information research scientist

• Median annual salary: $145,080
• Projected growth rate: 26%
• Projected number of new jobs: 9,400

These professionals continuously push the envelope by inventing new computing technologies and designing strategies to solve complex problems. With a focus on research and development, computer and information research scientists drive technological innovation forward.

4. Nurse anesthetist

• Median annual salary: $212,650
• Projected growth rate: 10%
• Projected number of new jobs: 5,200

Nurse anesthetists play a critical role in the medical field. They deliver anesthesia and manage pain before and during surgical procedures. By combining medical expertise with patient interaction, nurse anesthetists contribute greatly to patients' comfort and wellness.

5. Marketing manager

• Median annual salary: $157,620
• Projected growth rate: 8%
• Projected number of new jobs: 31,700

Marketing managers are essential in developing effective strategies and campaigns that resonate with target audiences. With a blend of creativity and analytical skills, they work to enhance brand visibility and growth, utilizing various channels to generate interest and engagement.

6. Software developer

• Median annual salary: $132,270
• Projected growth rate: 18%
• Projected number of new jobs: 303,700

In short, software developers design, create, and maintain software applications crucial to daily operations across industries. This means utilizing their coding languages and information technology knowledge to complete specific tasks and projects.

7. Natural sciences manager

• Median annual salary: $157,740
• Projected growth rate: 8%
• Projected number of new jobs: 7,500

Natural sciences managers oversee scientific research and development projects, coordinating activities among teams of scientists and researchers. This role ensures that projects align with organizational goals and comply with regulations while pushing boundaries in scientific exploration.

8. Nurse practitioner

• Median annual salary: $126,260
• Projected growth rate: 46%
• Projected number of new jobs: 135,500

With a growing emphasis on preventive care, nurse practitioners are essential healthcare providers who diagnose and treat various conditions. They often serve as primary care providers, ensuring patients receive the medical attention they need.

9. Physician assistant

• Median annual salary: $130,020
• Projected growth rate: 46%
• Projected number of new jobs: 43,700

Working alongside physicians, physician assistants deliver diagnostic and therapeutic care, assisting in various medical procedures and patient interactions. After assessing the patient's health, they can also administer care under the supervision of a physician.

10. Information security analyst

• Median annual salary: $120,360
• Projected growth rate: 28%
• Projected number of new jobs: 59,100

Information security analysts play a vital role in safeguarding organizations against cyber threats, ensuring data privacy, and responding to security breaches. This means investigating the causes of an existing breach or looking into ways to prevent them.

11. Chief executive

• Median annual salary: $206,680
• Projected growth rate: 5%
• Projected number of new jobs: 17,200

Chief executives are responsible for the strategic direction and overall management of organizations. They make high-level decisions that affect the company's future while steering resources effectively to achieve organizational goals.

12. Architectural and engineering manager

• Median annual salary: $165,370
• Projected growth rate: 6%
• Projected number of new jobs: 11,600

These professionals are responsible for the design and construction of projects, merging creativity with technical expertise. Architectural and engineering managers oversee teams to ensure that projects meet quality standards while adhering to regulations. 

13. Computer network architect

• Median annual salary: $129,840
• Projected growth rate: 13%
• Projected number of new jobs: 23,900

Computer network architects design and manage networks that facilitate organizational communication and data sharing. Their expertise ensures that systems are efficient and secure, allowing companies to function smoothly in digitally-driven environments.

14. Physician

• Median annual salary: $248,640
• Projected growth rate: 4%
• Projected number of new jobs: 13,100

Physicians are frontline healthcare providers who diagnose and treat various medical conditions. This entails prescribing medications, performing diagnostics, testing, counseling patients, and much more.

15. Database architect

• Median annual salary: $134,700
• Projected growth rate: 11%
• Projected number of new jobs: 6,600

Database architects are critical for designing and managing complex databases that ensure data organization, storage, and accessibility. Their duties can also include creating models for building databases and conducting the required research.

16. Computer hardware engineer

• Median annual salary: $138,080
• Projected growth rate: 7%
• Projected number of new jobs: 6,100

Computer hardware engineers design and develop the components of computers and other electronic devices. They also know their way around processors, routers, and circuit boards and test these components to create the best possible designs.

17. Lawyer

• Median annual salary: $145,760
• Projected growth rate: 5%
• Projected number of new jobs: 44,200

Lawyers play a vital role in society by representing clients in legal matters while providing expert legal advice. Thanks to their knowledge of laws and legal proceedings, they communicate with clients, judges, and any other party involved with cases to best represent their clients.

18. Dentist

• Median annual salary: $166,300
• Projected growth rate: 5%
• Projected number of new jobs: 6,700

Dentists are essential for the preventive care and treatment of dental issues. They advise patients on how to best maintain their oral health and also intervene and perform procedures when needed. 

19. Sales manager

• Median annual salary: $135,160
• Projected growth rate: 19%
• Projected number of new jobs: 34,300

Sales managers guide teams of salespeople to meet and exceed organizational goals. In this leadership position, sales managers develop strategies to enhance sales performance and drive business growth.

20. Veterinarian

• Median annual salary: $119,100
• Projected growth rate: 19%
• Projected number of new jobs: 16,800

Veterinarians are committed to safeguarding animal health and providing medical treatment and care to pets and livestock. The duties associated with this role have a lot of resemblances with those of physicians but in the realm of animal welfare.

21. Human resources manager

• Median annual salary: $136,350
• Projected growth rate: 6%
• Projected number of new jobs: 13,500

Human resources managers manage employee recruitment, retention, and development within organizations. They implement strategies to foster positive workplace environments and ensure that talent management is a priority.

22. Actuary

• Median annual salary: $120,000
• Projected growth rate: 22%
• Projected number of new jobs: 6,600

Actuaries analyze financial risks using advanced mathematical and statistical methods. Their insights are crucial to the insurance and finance sectors, enabling companies to make informed decisions and accurately assess risks.

23. Data scientist

• Median annual salary: $108,020
• Projected growth rate: 36%
• Projected number of new jobs: 73,100

Data scientists play a vital role in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting complex data. They help organizations make strategic decisions based on quantitative insights and develop useful algorithms and models that facilitate company functions.

24. Airline pilot, copilot, and flight engineer

• Median annual salary: $171,210
• Projected growth rate: 5%
• Projected number of new jobs: 4,800

While pilots operate aircraft and coordinate with air traffic control, they also monitor unpredictable flight conditions and engage in emergency procedures should an issue with the aircraft arise. Flight engineers, on the other hand, are more focused on aircraft maintenance and ensuring the safety of all passengers. 

25. Public relations manager

• Median annual salary: $134,760
• Projected growth rate: 7%
• Projected number of new jobs: 5,400

Public relations managers are responsible for shaping and maintaining organizations' image while managing communication with the public. They craft strategies to build positive relationships and are in charge of expanding the company's brand. 

Jobs with the highest salary growth depending on experience

If you're looking to increase your salary as time passes, picking the right career can significantly impact your salary growth based on your experience level. Out of our previous list, here are the top 5 careers with the biggest salary difference between when you first step through the door and when you become a seasoned expert.

Want to study in the US?

The US has an incredibly diverse job market. Since its education system is the most recognized worldwide, a degree earned from a reputable institution in the US carries considerable weight, which enhances students' job prospects once they graduate.

As the data above shows, fields such as healthcare, management, and tech are projected to experience a notable demand for qualified professionals. These areas of study could be very beneficial if you wish to kickstart a successful career!

Conclusion

In 2026, fantastic career opportunities await you in the US, each with unique requirements and rewards. Not only can you get a great education in the US, but you can also expect rewarding careers when you get your foot through the door. Whether you're drawn to engineering, healthcare, education, or the arts, there's something for everyone!