Can you get a high paying job with a high school diploma?
Sarah Garza
Updated on March 31, 2026
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are a ton of high-paying jobs that only require a high school diploma. Some of those careers include nuclear-power-reactor operators, commercial pilots, and detectives. Here are the highest-paying jobs you can get with just a high school diploma.
What kind of jobs can you get right out of high school?
We have curated a list of 10 highest paying jobs that you can comfortably achieve with a high school diploma….Highest Paying Jobs Without a University Degree
- Dispensing optician.
- Community health care worker.
- Pharmacy technician.
- Gaming manager.
- 5. Mail carrier.
- Power plant operator.
- Audiovisual technician.
- Ironworker.
What are the best paying jobs for high school graduates?
Technical Jobs. Some of the best-paying jobs for high school graduates require technical abilities plus long-term on-the-job training or apprenticeship. The highest-paid workers in this category are elevator installers and repairers, who must complete an apprenticeship program. They received median 2012 wages of $76,650, according to the BLS.
What can you do with a high school degree?
After finishing high school, some graduates may decide to begin their careers immediately. You can choose from a wide variety of jobs with a high school degree. Many of these positions provide training on the job with the opportunity to advance.
How much money can you make with a high school diploma?
A college graduate now earns on average more than $23,000 a year than someone with only a high school diploma. And while that degree may come at a high price, it still holds true that a college degree is worth the money considering the access it gives you to higher-paying jobs in the future.
How much money can you make with a college degree?
Learn more about our guarantee here . A college graduate now earns on average more than $23,000 a year than someone with only a high school diploma. And while that degree may come at a high price, it still holds true that a college degree is worth the money considering the access it gives you to higher-paying jobs in the future.
