Top Paying Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree in 2025
College isn’t the only path to a successful and high-paying career in 2025. Whether you're looking to avoid student debt or jump straight into the workforce, there are many jobs that pay well without needing a university degree — especially in the USA, Canada, and UK.
This guide will show you the top-paying jobs you can get without a degree, what they involve, average salaries, and how to start.
1. Electrician
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Average Salary:
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USA: $60,000/year
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Canada: $65,000/year
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UK: £36,000/year
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Why it pays well: Skilled trade in high demand, often includes overtime pay.
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How to start: Apprenticeship or trade school (1–2 years).
2. Truck Driver (Long Haul / Commercial Class A License)
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Average Salary:
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USA: $55,000–$90,000/year
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Canada: $60,000–$100,000/year
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UK: £30,000–£45,000/year
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Why it pays well: High demand, long hours, and bonus incentives.
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How to start: Commercial driver’s license (CDL).
3. Web Developer (Self-Taught or Bootcamp Graduate)
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Average Salary:
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USA: $75,000/year
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Canada: $70,000/year
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UK: £45,000/year
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Why it pays well: Coding skills are highly in demand in 2025.
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How to start: Free coding platforms (e.g., Codecademy, FreeCodeCamp) or short bootcamps.
4. Cybersecurity Analyst (Certifications-Based)
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Average Salary:
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USA: $85,000/year
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Canada: $80,000/year
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UK: £50,000–£70,000/year
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Why it pays well: Cyber threats are rising, and certified professionals are scarce.
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How to start: Get CompTIA Security+, Google Cybersecurity Certificate, or similar.
5. Air Traffic Controller
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Average Salary:
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USA: $125,000/year
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Canada: $100,000/year
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UK: £85,000/year
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Why it pays well: High-stress, high-responsibility role.
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How to start: Specialized government training programs — no degree needed.
6. Plumber
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Average Salary:
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USA: $55,000–$85,000/year
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Canada: $60,000/year
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UK: £35,000/year
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Why it pays well: Shortage of skilled workers and emergency service fees.
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How to start: Apprenticeship + license (depending on region).
7. Amazon Delivery Partner / Logistics Entrepreneur
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Average Potential Income: $100,000+/year (if you run a team)
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Why it pays well: Low startup requirements, high logistics demand.
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How to start: Apply through Amazon DSP (Delivery Service Partner) program.
8. Real Estate Agent
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Average Salary:
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USA: $60,000–$120,000/year
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Canada: $55,000–$100,000/year
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UK: £30,000–£70,000/year (commission-based)
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Why it pays well: Commission-driven; potential to scale income fast.
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How to start: Real estate license course (few weeks to months).
9. HVAC Technician (Heating, Ventilation, A/C)
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Average Salary:
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USA: $55,000/year
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Canada: $60,000/year
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UK: £33,000/year
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Why it pays well: High demand in all climates and regions.
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How to start: Certification or trade school.
10. Chef or Head Cook
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Average Salary:
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USA: $50,000–$90,000/year
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Canada: $45,000–$80,000/year
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UK: £25,000–£60,000/year
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Why it pays well: Experience > degrees. Top chefs can earn six figures.
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How to start: Work experience, apprenticeships, and online culinary programs.
Final Tips for 2025:
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Certifications > Degrees: Employers care about skills and experience more than ever.
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Look for apprenticeship programs in your area — often paid!
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Consider freelancing or launching your own small business (e.g., in tech, real estate, or delivery).
Want more career advice, job ideas, or free tools to get started?
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