Here are the top 5 American Dream jobs and why only 8% are working in their ideal careers

A recent survey by Talker Research, conducted from October 21 to 24, looked into the top American dream jobs.

According to Newsweek, the survey of 1,000 Americans about their career aspirations found that 43 percent had a clear “dream job” in mind. In comparison, 46 percent said they didn’t, while 12 percent were unsure.

Nearly 400 people shared their dream jobs, revealing various career goals.

The survey found a blend of traditional and modern job preferences, with many highlighting the desire for flexible work options and a strong interest in entrepreneurship.

The American dream jobs, according to the survey, are:

1. Flexible, work-from-home jobs

Many survey participants strongly preferred jobs that provide flexibility, remote work, and a better work-life balance, reflecting shifts in today’s work culture. One common dream was “working from home and earning enough to cover expenses,” emphasizing how important independence and more time at home have become for many people.

2. Helping professions

Many respondents see their dream jobs as opportunities to help others, with many aspiring to become nurses, teachers, social workers, or veterinarians. One person expressed a desire to help victims of domestic violence and those living in poverty.

3. Self-employment

Many respondents aspire to gain independence by owning their own businesses, with dreams ranging from opening a jewelry store to starting a cleaning service or small restaurant. One person mentioned wanting a business with multiple income streams to achieve financial freedom.

4. Animal care and nature-oriented jobs

Another common theme in the responses was a love for animals and nature. Many dream of careers as a zookeeper, veterinarian, national park ranger, or fire lookout in the Santa Fe National Forest.

5. Creative arts and media

Some respondents dream of careers in the arts, such as becoming a music producer, YouTuber, fashion designer, or novelist. One person also hopes to work on projects that could have a positive impact.

8% of Americans are working in their dream jobs

A different survey shows just 8% of Americans are in their dream jobs, with one-third citing affordability as the main obstacle, per The Journal Record.

In Oklahoma, 42% of workers said financial challenges, such as the high cost of education and starting a business, are holding them back.

Only five states—New Jersey, Mississippi, Illinois, Idaho, and Michigan—had higher percentages of people facing the same issue.

A July survey by Voice Nation involving 1,500 U.S. employees found that financial challenges are a key barrier preventing many Americans from pursuing their dream jobs.

Dan Marshall, group head of digital at Moneypenny and VoiceNation, says, “It’s not surprising that financial constraints are such a significant barrier to Americans pursuing their dream jobs. The cost of education, startup capital, and even basic living expenses can be overwhelming when you’re trying to carve out a new career path.”

He emphasized the need for financial advice and mentorship to help overcome these challenges, believing that achieving a dream job remains possible with the right support.

In addition to financial challenges, 22% of survey respondents pointed to limited job opportunities as a major obstacle to landing their dream jobs.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 818,000 fewer jobs were created than expected in the year leading up to March, a 0.5% decrease.

However, some sectors saw job growth, including transportation and warehousing (up 56,400 jobs or 0.9%) and private education and health services (up 87,000 jobs or 0.3%).

Other barriers included family obligations (20%) and concerns about failure or lack of confidence (18%).

When asked about ideal business ventures, respondents most commonly chose food-and-beverage businesses (18%), followed by health and wellness (10%) and travel and hospitality (10%).

Not working your dream job? Here are the things you should care about more than having your dream job: