The 11 Best Jobs That Pay at Least $100,000 and Don’t Require a Medical Degree

You don't have to be a doctor to move beyond living paycheck to paycheck. Sure, doctors can bring in big salaries, but other positions may better suit your interests and can help you boost your bank account, setting you up for retirement. 

Take a look at these jobs that make more than $100,000 a year but don't require a medical degree.

Editor's note: All salary figures come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

Median annual salary: $139,380

As a political scientist, you research political subjects, develop political theories, and forecast trends in the political field.

You usually need at least a master's or Ph.D. in the field.

Median annual salary: $130,390

A computer network architect is responsible for building and designing networks for communication.

In the job, you may be responsible for planning a network, upgrading hardware, and developing ideas for network stability and security. 

Computer network architects typically need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology, computer engineering, or a related field. There will be an estimated 21,400 new positions in the field by 2034.

Median annual salary: $131,450

Software developers are responsible for creating computer programs or applications. You may also be part of teams that test these programs and applications for bugs or other issues.

Software developers often need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field. 

The BLS estimates that the job outlook is projected to grow by 15% by 2034.

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Median annual salary: $125,770

Actuaries use math and statistics to determine risks, economic costs, and uncertainty for future events. You usually work for insurance companies and could also travel as consultants.

The field is projected to grow by 22% by 2034. 

To become an actuary, you typically need a bachelor's degree in mathematics, business, or an analytical field.

Median annual salary: $138,060

Sales managers oversee sales teams to promote products or services. You may analyze sales statistics, handle customer issues, or plan training for sales staff.

The field is expected to grow faster than average by 5% over the next decade. 

You may not need a college degree to get a position as a sales manager, but it helps to have previous sales experience.

Median annual salary: $141,280

Petroleum engineers develop and design ways to extract oil and gas reserves from the Earth. You may be responsible for designing equipment, developing drilling plans, or evaluating production.

This field often requires a bachelor's degree in engineering.

Median annual salary: $151,160

Lawyers represent businesses, individuals, or government agencies in legal matters. You may advise clients, create legal documents, or present facts on behalf of your client.

The field is expected to grow by 4% over the next decade. 

Lawyers typically need a Juris Doctor degree to practice law. You'll also have to pass a bar exam and obtain a license to practice law in the state you're in.

Median annual salary: $159,660

Marketing managers are responsible for advertising and promoting products and services to generate interest. You might have to plan advertising campaigns, develop strategies for promotions, or negotiate advertising contracts.

Marketing managers often need a bachelor's degree in advertising or communications to get a position in the field. This occupation is projected to grow faster than average by 6%. 

Median annual salary: $161,700

As a financial manager, you may develop financial plans for a client, create financial statements, or analyze market trends.

Financial managers usually need a bachelor's degree in business, economics, or a related field. You might also be required to have certification or licensing, depending on your area of focus. Job growth is slated to be around 15%. 

Median annual salary: $171,200

IT managers plan and coordinate computer-related activities for an organization. You may have to create plans for your company's computer needs, learn about new technology to implement, or negotiate with vendors for services.

There is a predicted growth of 15% by 2034.

IT managers should have a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology as well as previous experience in the IT field.

Median annual salary: $198,100

Airline pilots fly and navigate aircraft to transport passengers and cargo.

You will need to understand how to fly and navigate various types of aircraft, communicate with air traffic control, and respond to changing conditions like weather or emergencies.

A pilot usually needs a bachelor's degree as well as flight training. You'll also need to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.

There are many careers you can pursue other than the medical profession to earn a six-figure income. Remember to figure out what topics interest you the most and consider which career may best fit your talents.

Earning a high annual salary could enable you to save plenty of money for retirement, or even early retirement, as long as you don't adopt an opulent lifestyle.