10 High-Demand Jobs That Pay Over $85K a Year

While the job market might seem gloomy these days, there are still high-paying jobs available that are in demand and have growth potential. And while earning $85,000 or more a year to get ahead financially might seem out of reach, it's very possible in these professions with high growth rates.

Here are 10 jobs that pay over $85,000 a year on average and are expected to be in high demand over the next 10 years. All income data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Median annual salary: $90,400

In this job, you will examine detailed financial records to ensure that various organizations comply with all laws regarding financial institutions and transactions. This means reviewing balance sheets, income statements, loan documents, and other financial data.

A background in finance is a good starting point, and this profession is expected to explode over the next decade by a massive 21%, so organizations are looking for people who can be trained and step into the role.

Median annual salary: $91,290

In this role, you will use advanced analytical, statistical, and mathematical methods to help your organization solve operational problems and make better decisions. That means optimizing processes, developing mathematical models, and advising decision-makers on the best steps.

A background in math or analytics is a good starting point, and you'll need at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. The projected growth rate over the next 10 years is 23%, so this profession is booming.

Median annual salary: $94,170

As a personal financial advisor, you'll be your clients' go-to expert for financial decisions. That means advising on estate planning, tax liability, and investment strategies.

You may also need a background in finance and a professional certification, such as a Certified Financial Planner, to do this job. However, many employment opportunities exist, as the projected growth rate is 17% over the next decade.

Median annual salary: $95,380

Your main focus will be creating and maintaining all aspects of a website, from the front-end look to the back-end code running the page. You'll ensure that the site is functional and satisfies your user base.

A bachelor's degree in computer science is a good place to start, though you can teach yourself many of the fundamentals independently. This profession is expected to grow by 8% by 2033.

Median annual salary: $98,340

As an occupational therapist, you'll work with a broad client base, helping people with injuries, disabilities, and illnesses get back on their feet and live functioning lives. This high-impact job will see you managing care and rehabilitation for dozens of people.

A master's degree in occupational therapy is required, but it's possible to shift careers and get into an OT school if that's not your background. This job is expected to grow by 11% over the next 10 years.

Median annual salary: $101,020

You'll help patients recover from injuries and surgeries by giving them therapeutic exercises and other physical interventions, such as light massage. This is another hands-on profession that will see you developing comprehensive rehab plans to get people out of pain and back to living life.

You will need a specialized degree from a nationally accredited organization, but this is a great role that you can move into from a different profession. Given the country's aging population, the demand for physical therapists will grow by 14% by 2033.

Median annual salary: $101,190

As a management analyst, you'll help organizations improve efficiency, reduce costs, and boost profitability by analyzing business operations and recommending solutions. You'll need a degree in finance or a related field and relevant work experience in business, operations, or project management. This role is expected to grow by 11% over the next decade.

Median annual salary: $101,910

Your main focus in this role will be helping private equity firms, hedge funds, banks, or other financial institutions make smart investment decisions. That means researching and crafting detailed analyses of financial markets and overlooked investment opportunities.

You'll need a background in finance and a bachelor's degree to break into this field, which is projected to grow by 9% over the next decade.

Median annual salary: $105,670

As a marine engineer, you will help develop, design, and evaluate naval vessels and ship machinery. Given the complex nature of the job, you will need a bachelor's degree in engineering, if not a specialization in marine or naval engineering.

With the ever-increasing levels of globalization and global shipping, this profession is expected to grow 8% by 2033.

Median annual salary: $124,910

You'll be responsible for planning and executing security for an organization's computer infrastructure. That means constantly updating and checking your company's systems to prevent a possible cyberattack.

A computer science and network security background is helpful, though you can gain much knowledge through self-study. Given how the digital world is expanding, this field is expected to grow 33% over the next decade.

Getting a high-demand job that pays over $85,000 a year is a great way to boost your bank account and give yourself peace of mind. These roles provide long-term job security due to their rapid growth and ongoing need across industries.

Pivoting to a career with high growth potential can also drastically improve your financial stability in a shifting economy where some roles face automation or decline. That means you can increase your earning potential and reduce your risk of unemployment, better preparing for future financial goals like homeownership or retirement.