10 high-paying jobs for 2025 that promise low stress and a better work-life balance

Finding the highest-paying jobs with the lowest stress levels might be a key goal if you aim for a better work-life balance.

Resume Genius recently released a report highlighting top low-stress professions still offering excellent salaries for 2025.

The “2025 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs” report is based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the career platform O*NET Online.

“Heading into 2025, prioritizing mental health in the workplace is essential for job seekers to feel more at ease,” Eva Chan, a career expert at Resume Genius, told Entrepreneur, explaining that with remote and hybrid work becoming more common, the boundaries between work and personal life are increasingly unclear.

“Our report on low-stress, high-paying jobs shows you don’t have to sacrifice a competitive salary to achieve a healthier work-life balance. With the right role, it’s possible to thrive both financially and mentally,” she added.

Low-stress jobs offer predictable schedules, manageable workloads, and supportive environments, making them an excellent option for avoiding burnout.

These roles provide a path to a more comfortable lifestyle when combined with good salaries.

For those seeking less stress at work, careers with low physical demands or remote work opportunities are worth considering.

Remote jobs, in particular, offer flexibility and the convenience of skipping the daily commute.

Here are 10 high-paying, low-stress jobs to consider in 2025, many of which offer the flexibility of remote work.

It’s important to note that these roles require at least a Bachelor’s degree, and earning one can be challenging.

Stress levels and salaries may also vary based on individual experiences and circumstances.

Researchers used O*NET’s “stress tolerance” database to create this list to exclude high-stress jobs.

They then matched the remaining positions with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. They focused on roles with median salaries above $48,060 and faster-than-average job growth.

10. Transportation Planner

Transportation planners earn a median annual salary of $81,800, with 45,200 jobs reported in 2023. The field is expected to grow by four percent over the next decade, and most positions require at least a Master’s degree.

These professionals design systems that make travel more efficient and environmentally friendly, working on projects like reducing traffic, expanding public transit, and creating bike-friendly cities,per the Independent.

As cities focus on greener infrastructure, the need for transportation planners continues to grow, offering competitive pay and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a low-stress environment.

9. Geographer

Geographers, who earn a median salary of $90,880, study the Earth’s physical features and human activities. With 1,600 jobs in 2023 and a three percent projected growth rate, this field offers opportunities for those with at least a Bachelor’s degree.

These professionals are essential in addressing urban, environmental, and disaster-related challenges, helping to understand climate change and plan sustainable cities.

A career in geography offers high-paying jobs, competitive compensation, and the flexibility of remote work, all while allowing individuals to make a meaningful impact.

8. Remote Sensing Scientist And Technologist

Remote sensing scientists and technologists earn a median salary of $92,580 and use satellite and aerial data to address issues like climate change, disaster management, and urban planning.

With 26,000 jobs in 2023 and a projected growth rate of five percent over the next decade, this field is in high demand. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required.

As industries and governments turn to remote sensing for valuable insights, the need for skilled professionals is increasing. This career offers substantial pay, remote work options, and a research-driven, low-stress environment.

7. Fuel Cell Engineer

Fuel cell engineers, who earn a median salary of $99,510, design systems that generate clean energy for vehicles and buildings. With 291,900 jobs in 2023 and an expected 11 percent growth over the next decade, this field offers promising career prospects. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required.

These engineers often work in low-stress, research-focused environments, developing long-term solutions for clean energy. Their highly valued expertise provides job security and competitive pay in a rapidly growing industry.

6. Computer Systems Analyst

With a median annual salary of $103,800, computer systems analysts play a vital role in improving a company’s technology. They assess how organizations use their computer systems, from software to hardware, to identify inefficiencies and recommend solutions.

In 2023, there were 527,200 jobs in this field, with a projected growth rate of 11 percent over the next decade. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter the profession.

The job involves collaborative work, fostering a more organized and focused environment. With increasing demand for their skills and the option for remote work, this career offers competitive pay and a balanced lifestyle.

5. Mathematician

Mathematicians, earning a median salary of $104,860 annually, specialize in solving complex problems and identifying patterns. Their expertise is crucial in technology, finance, and engineering, where they help guide decision-making.

With 34,800 jobs reported in 2023, the field is expected to grow by 11 percent over the next decade. A Master’s degree is typically required to enter the profession.

Working in calm, structured settings like research labs or universities, mathematicians focus on thoughtful problem-solving. As industries like technology and finance expand, the demand for their skills grows, providing strong job security and competitive pay. This career is ideal for those who enjoy solving intricate puzzles in a rewarding, low-stress environment.

4. Environmental Economist

Environmental economists, earning a median salary of $115,730, assess the economic effects of environmental policies and projects. They help governments and organizations evaluate the costs and benefits of sustainability and resource management initiatives.

In 2023, there were 17,500 jobs in this field, with an expected five percent growth over the next decade. A Master’s degree is typically required.

Their work focuses on long-term planning and addressing key environmental issues like climate change and sustainable energy. As demand for sustainable solutions increases, the need for skilled environmental economists grows, providing substantial salaries and job security.

3. Actuary

Actuaries with a median salary of $120,000 help businesses assess and manage financial risks through detailed analysis. Their insights guide decision-making in areas like investments. In 2023, there were 30,200 jobs in this field, and it’s expected to grow by 22 percent over the next decade. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter the profession.

Actuaries are known for working in structured, low-stress environments and focus on long-term planning and risk management. With substantial pay, job stability, and growing demand across various industries, this career offers a rewarding and steady path.

2. Astronomer

Astronomers, who earn a median annual salary of $149,530, focus on studying the universe, from stars to planets. In 2023, there were 23,500 jobs in this field, with growth expected to rise 7 percent over the next decade. A doctoral or professional degree is required to enter the profession.

They typically work in calm, academic settings, conducting independent research and long-term projects. With flexible schedules and remote work options, astronomers often enjoy a strong work-life balance, allowing them to focus on deep exploration while maintaining personal flexibility.

1. Water Resource Specialist

With a median annual salary of $157,740, water resource specialists play a vital role in managing and preserving local water supplies. Their duties include monitoring water quality and developing conservation strategies.

In 2023, the field employed 100,100 professionals, and it’s expected to grow by 8 percent over the next decade. A Bachelor’s degree is usually required to start in this profession.

The job offers a stable environment with clear responsibilities and minimal physical stress. With a growing emphasis on water conservation, demand for specialists is increasing, leading to competitive pay and strong job security.

Meanwhile, here are some of the high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree, according to Ryan Scribner, author of the book “From Side Hustle To Main Hustle To Millionaire:”