When people think of trades, they often picture decent but not exceptional wages. The BLS data tells a different story. Several trade and vocational careers pay as well as, or better than, many four-year degree jobs. Here are the 10 highest-paying trade careers based on 2023–2024 BLS median annual wages.
1. Dental Hygienist: $94,260/year
Dental hygienists top this list by a significant margin. Requiring an associate's degree (typically 2–3 years), this healthcare trade combines clinical skills with real earning power. With 7% projected job growth and over 221,600 current jobs, it's also stable. Explore healthcare programs.
2. Electrician: $62,350/year
Electricians are the top earners in construction trades, driven by strong demand for electrical work in residential, commercial, and renewable energy sectors. The 6% growth projection makes this one of the best long-term bets in any trade. Find electrical programs.
3. Plumber / Pipefitter / Steamfitter: $61,550/year
Plumbing consistently ranks among the best-paying skilled trades. Journeyman plumbers can earn significantly more than the median, and master plumbers who start their own businesses frequently earn six figures. Explore plumbing schools.
4. Industrial Machinery Mechanic / Millwright: $60,750/year
Industrial machinery mechanics keep manufacturing plants running. The combination of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic skills commands premium wages, particularly in aerospace, automotive, and food processing sectors.
5. Chef / Head Cook: $58,920/year
Head cooks and executive chefs at high-end establishments earn well above the median. Culinary arts degrees or certifications from accredited programs significantly improve earning potential over self-taught cooks.
6. Carpenter: $59,310/year
Experienced finish carpenters and those who specialize in high-end custom work consistently command higher wages. With 4% projected growth and nearly a million jobs nationwide, carpentry offers real stability.
7. HVAC Technician: $57,300/year
HVAC is one of the fastest-growing maintenance trades. Climate change, aging HVAC infrastructure, and energy efficiency retrofits are driving significant demand. Top techs in high-cost states earn $70,000–$90,000. Find HVAC training programs.
8. Diesel Technician: $54,690/year
The trucking and logistics industry depends on diesel mechanics. With the explosion of e-commerce and supply chain investment, demand for diesel techs has grown substantially. Hybrid and electric commercial vehicles are creating new specialty opportunities.
9. Masonry Worker: $53,480/year
Skilled masons (particularly those who work in historic restoration or decorative stone) earn above the median. Infrastructure spending is driving consistent demand for masonry skills nationwide.
10. Welder: $51,000/year
Welding's median wage understates earning potential for specialists. Underwater welders, pipeline welders, and aerospace welders can earn $70,000–$100,000+. The path to top welding wages is specialization. Browse welding schools.
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