Not everyone wants—or needs—to go to college to build a successful career. The rising cost of tuition, student loan debt, and the time commitment required to earn a degree have led many people to look for alternatives. College isn’t for everyone, and fortunately, there are many great jobs without a degree that pay well, offer stability, and require little time to start. Let’s explore these 6 best jobs without a college degree.
In fact, some of the best jobs without a college degree are in skilled trades and blue-collar industries. These roles often involve hands-on work, are in high demand, and provide the opportunity to earn an excellent salary without spending years in school. Below, we’ll explore the top six careers without a degree, highlighting their average salaries, training time and costs, and the projected job growth.
1. Truck Driver
Average Salary: $76,000/year (American Trucking Associations)
Training Time: 3-4 weeks to complete ELDT CDL training
Training Cost: $4,000-$7,000 (varies by location and financial aid options)
Truck driving is one of the best jobs without a college degree, offering a quick path to high earnings. To become a truck driver, you need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which you can earn through a short training program. The return on investment is significant—after just a month of training, you can earn a median salary of $76,000, making it a clear choice over the costs and time of a four-year degree.
Projected Job Growth: The demand for truck drivers remains strong, fueled by the need to transport goods across the country. With growing e-commerce and logistics industries, opportunities in this field are abundant.
2. Plumber
Average Salary: $59,880/year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Training Time: 4-5 years (apprenticeship)
Training Cost: $0-$2,000 (many apprenticeships pay you to learn)
Plumbers are always in demand, making this a reliable career without a degree. You’ll learn the trade through an apprenticeship, which typically lasts 4-5 years, but the good news is that many apprenticeships allow you to earn while you train.
Projected Job Growth: While growth in this field is steady, there will always be a need for skilled plumbers to handle new construction, maintenance, and repair projects.
3. Electrician
Average Salary: $60,040/year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Training Time: 4-5 years (apprenticeship)
Training Cost: $0-$1,000 (apprenticeships often cover costs)
Electricians are among the most stable and best jobs without a degree. Like plumbers, electricians typically complete an apprenticeship program, which combines hands-on work with classroom learning. With the growing emphasis on renewable energy and electric vehicles, this is a career with excellent future potential.
Projected Job Growth: Employment is projected to grow 7% by 2031, much faster than the average for all jobs.
4. Elevator Installer and Repairer
Average Salary: $97,860/year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Training Time: 4 years (apprenticeship)
Training Cost: $0-$5,000 (many apprenticeships pay during training)
Elevator installers and repairers work on some of the most complex systems in buildings, and their expertise comes with a hefty paycheck. While this career does require an apprenticeship, the potential for high earnings makes it a great job without a degree for those who enjoy working with machinery.
Projected Job Growth: Employment in this field is expected to grow by 7%, with new construction and modernization driving demand.
5. Commercial Pilot
Average Salary: $99,640/year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Training Time: 6 months to 2 years
Training Cost: $10,000-$20,000 (varies by flight school)
If you’re looking for one of the best jobs without a degree that offers adventure, becoming a commercial pilot might be right for you. This role excludes airline pilots and focuses on those who transport cargo, operate charter flights, or perform similar services. You’ll need a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Projected Job Growth: Employment is projected to grow by 6%, thanks to the increasing demand for cargo and private flights.
6. Power Plant Operator
Average Salary: $94,790/year (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Training Time: 1-2 years (on-the-job training)
Training Cost: Minimal (provided by the employer)
Power plant operators are responsible for generating electricity that powers our homes and businesses. This career without a degree requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training, making it accessible and practical for those who enjoy technical work.
Projected Job Growth: While automation is expected to impact growth, experienced operators will remain essential for plant operations.
Why Choose One of These Jobs Instead of College?
The financial and time investment in college can be overwhelming. The average cost of a four-year degree in the U.S. is over $35,000 per year, adding up to more than $140,000 in total. In contrast, careers like truck driving require only a few weeks or months of training, with significantly lower costs.
For those looking to avoid student debt and start earning sooner, these jobs with no degree required provide excellent opportunities. Many offer job stability, competitive salaries, and even growth potential—without the need for a university degree.
Whether you’re interested in becoming a truck driver, electrician, or plumber, these great jobs without a degree show that you don’t need college to have a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
Take the first step today! If truck driving appeals to you, check out our CDL training program. In just a few weeks, you could be on your way to earning $76,000 or more annually in a growing industry.