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11 High-Paying Jobs That are Perfect for a Career Change

If you’re looking to make more money and try something different, consider these career options.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Dec. 27, 2024

Are you bored or otherwise dissatisfied with your career? Maybe it's time for a change. There are plenty of career options that might be a perfect fit if you’re ready to make the switch.

Check out some of these high-paying jobs that can help you get ahead financially and bring new excitement to your work.

All income figures in this story come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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Data scientist

Data scientists pore over collections of data to find meaningful conclusions that can help a client or company. Plus, the role pays well and could be a good catalyst to help you boost your bank account.

You may be well-suited for this position if you deal with databases already or if you analyze different types of information in your current position.

A data scientist makes a median annual income of $108,020.

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Software developer

Software developers design programs for computers. They may also recommend specific software upgrades or document a system that needs reviewing.

A software developer makes a median annual income of $130,160.

Network architect

Network architects design and maintain communications networks like intranet services in an office.

You may work on laying out networks or maintaining connectivity. You also may be responsible for updating routers or other hardware to keep the system running.

A network architect makes a median annual salary of $129,840

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Project manager

If you’re good at organizing projects, consider becoming a project manager.

Project managers are responsible for following a project from beginning to end and overseeing budgeting, staffing, scheduling assignments, and more.

Project management specialists make a median annual salary of $98,580 in median annual pay.

Personal financial advisor

A job as a financial advisor makes sense if you’re good with money and helping customers build financial portfolios. You can assist clients with investing, retirement planning, or budget management.

Personal financial advisors make a median annual salary of $99,580. But be aware that you may have to pay for licensing or certification depending on what type of financial planning you want to offer.

Market research analyst

A career as a market research analyst is a good option for those who enjoy strategizing about the prospects of products in the marketplace.

In this job, you might forecast trends in your particular market, talk to consumers about their preferences, or prepare reports to help guide your clients.

A market research analyst makes a median annual income of $74,680.

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Public relations specialist

Public relations specialists help clients to build a positive image. You might work with companies, public figures, or government institutions.

Good communication skills are also important for writing press releases, drafting speeches, and talking to the media and other professionals.

Public relations specialists make a median annual income of $66,750.

Human resources manager

A human resources (HR) manager can play an important role in helping a company run properly. An HR manager often is responsible for recruiting and hiring staff, overseeing employee benefits, and handling staff issues.

Human resources managers make a median annual income of $136,350.

Sales manager

As a sales manager, you may be responsible for finding new customers, analyzing sales data, and directing resources to increase sales. You also may need to set goals for your team or set up training sessions to maximize the team’s sales potential.

Sales managers make a median annual income of $135,160.

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Real estate broker

Real estate brokers help with the sale or purchase of both residential and commercial real estate.

You might work with clients to put a property up for sale or help potential buyers look at different homes or spaces to find the one that is right for their needs.

Brokers make a median annual salary of $56,620. They can also make additional income depending on commissions.

Technical writer

A technical writer is a skilled writer who clearly explains details in documents such as user manuals, how-to guides, and journal articles.

It helps to have a good understanding of the technical aspects of a particular topic so you can write about it in a comprehensive way.

Technical writers make a median annual income of $80,050.

Bottom line

A career change could offer an important boost to you, both professionally and financially. In fact, it might help you stop living paycheck to paycheck.

Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of switching careers. If a change makes sense, consider the careers on this list as good options for a new direction in your work.

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