You’ve probably heard it all before… college grads tend to make more money than folks without degrees.
And it’s true.
See, according to recent income data, people with just a high school diploma make a median of around $48,000 a year, while bachelor’s degree holders earn closer to $80,000.
That’s a big gap, yes.[1]
But here’s the exciting part…
You don’t need a four-year degree to land a great paying job. In fact, many of today’s in-demand roles pay well above the national average…
And some even hit six figures. Without college!
Today, FindYourJobNow.com will show you some of these jobs, and we’ll show you how to find one near you.
So, let’s get into some of these jobs, while keeping in mind that you will need specialized training like trade school. If that (and the salaries you’ll see below) interests you, visit School Match Pro à HERE
They’ll help you find a program that fits what you’re looking for.
Now… the jobs[2].
Elevator & Escalator Installers and Repairers - Median Pay: $102,000/year
What It Takes…
High school diploma plus apprenticeship/trade school plus state certification.
You’d work installing, maintaining, and fixing the elevators and escalators that move America’s buildings. With experience and certification, this gig is one of the rare six-figure jobs that truly doesn’t require a college degree.
Construction and Building Inspectors - Median Pay: $67,000/year
What It takes…
High school diploma, trade experience, and licensing.
You’s inspect everything from structural elements to safety compliance on construction projects. Trade school experience goes a long way here.
Flight Attendants - Median Pay: $68,000/year
What it takes…
Airline training and FAA certification.
If you love travel, this is your ticket, literally. Airlines train you, and once certified, you’re earning competitive pay while flying around the country (or world).
Electrical Power-Line Installers & Repairers - Median Pay: $85,000/year
What it takes…
High school diploma with technical/trade school training.
These pros keep the lights on. While it’s physically demanding work, it pays extremely well for a non-degree job.
Wholesale & Manufacturing Sales Representatives - Median Pay: $73,000/year
What it takes…
High school diploma (some employers prefer experience).
Good with people and negotiation? This sales role connects manufacturers with buyers and pays well without traditional academia.
Aircraft & Avionics Mechanics - Median Pay: $75,000/year
What it takes…
FAA-approved A&P certification/trade education.
You’d keep aircraft safe and airworthy by inspecting and repairing engines, systems, and avionics. It’s technical, crucial work with solid pay.
Locomotive Engineers - Median Pay: $73,500/year
What it takes…
High school diploma plus Federal Railroad Administration certification plus on-the-job training.
You’d operate the trains that move goods and people across the country. With experience and certification, you’ll enjoy strong compensation without college.
Detectives & Criminal Investigators - Median Pay: $75,000/year
What it takes…
Start as a police officer (some departments don’t require a college degree), then advance.
If solving puzzles and helping your community appeals to you, law enforcement offers a path with real earning potential… with degrees optional in many departments.
Transportation, Storage & Distribution Managers - Median Pay: $99,000/year
What it takes…
High school diploma combined with vocational training or experience.
These professionals coordinate the movement of goods, a crucial role in global supply chains. It's near six figures and doesn’t require college.
You see…
In today’s job market, employers are increasingly valuing real skills, certifications, and track records over diplomas…
Especially in technical and trade roles where demand is high.
So, ready to find a job near you?
Here’s how to take the next steps…
Visit FindYourJobNow.com, enter the job you’re looking for, enter your city or ZIP code…
Then click “view jobs”
You got this!
[1] College Graduate Salaries: 2025 Projections | Bankrate
[2] Highest-Paying Jobs In 2025 You Can Get Without a Degree | Kiplinger