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9 Second Careers Perfect for People Over 50 That Pay $80,000+

A fresh start doesn't have to mean a pay cut.

By Chris Kissell

Edited by Esther Carlstone

Updated Feb. 19, 2026

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Losing a job — or simply tiring of it — after age 50 can create a professional crisis. What happens when your career grinds to a halt, and you don't know where to turn next?

Fortunately, there are many lucrative second-career opportunities available to workers in their 50s and beyond. If you're looking to move beyond living paycheck to paycheck or try something new, here are some great options that pay at least $80,000.

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Financial advisor

Median annual salary: $102,140

If you love money — and more importantly, helping others grow their own wealth — a financial advisor role can be a great second career. These professionals help people manage their money. They also map out strategies to get folks to their financial goals.

You will likely need a bachelor's degree to enter this field, although your particular college course of study may not matter as much as earning certifications, such as that of a certified financial planner.

On-the-job training is also likely to play a large role as you make this transition.

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Power plant operator, distributor, or dispatcher

Median annual salary: $103,600

Power plant operators, distributors, and dispatchers are responsible for overseeing the systems that distribute power to citizens in their communities. This can be a good second career if you're looking for something that gets you away from the typical corporate role.

Those who are 50 or older will find that the job keeps them mentally stimulated without having to endure hard physical labor.

You will need at least a high school diploma and likely will have to pass an exam. A strong background in math and science is a big plus.

Dental hygienist

Median annual salary: $94,260

If you're seeking a meaningful second career that helps people, consider studying to become a dental hygienist. These are the folks who clean your teeth and help spot developing oral health problems.

Keep in mind you'll need to earn an associate degree in dental hygiene, which can take three years, so this won't be a quick transition.

Diagnostic medical sonographer

Median annual salary: $89,340

Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound equipment to take images inside the body. Such images can provide crucial information to doctors trying to diagnose or treat diseases in patients.

This is another career in the medical field that allows you to help people, yet does not tax you physically. You will likely need to earn at least an associate degree or postsecondary certificate.

Marketing manager

Median annual salary: $161,030

If you have previous experience in advertising and marketing, perhaps moving into a marketing manager role will get you out of your current career rut.

In this position, you will be responsible for developing strategies that help get products and services to customers. A bachelor's degree is usually required, and you may have to start in a lower marketing role and work your way up to manager status.

Technical writer

Median annual salary: $91,670

If you're good with words, technical writing can be a lucrative way to make a living.

People in this position help create instruction manuals, guides, and other written materials that break down complex and technical information and make it easier for readers to understand.

You will likely need a bachelor's degree in communications, English, or journalism. It's also helpful if you have a background in a subject matter such as information technology or engineering.

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Labor relations specialist

Median annual salary: $93,500

Bringing peace to the workplace can be rewarding. Labor relations specialists help to resolve disputes between employees and management. They may also help to negotiate labor contracts.

You may need a bachelor's degree in labor and industrial relations. However, this can also be a good second career for those with degrees in human resources or business.

Logistician

Median annual salary: $80,880

Supply chains keep goods moving from raw materials to the finished product. Logisticians look at a company's supply chain and suggest ways to increase its efficiency. They are involved in overseeing the product's lifecycle from beginning to end.

In many cases, a bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management is required. However, experience in a related occupation might be good enough.

Operations research analyst

Median annual salary: $91,290

A role as an operations research analyst can challenge you mentally. Workers in this role use mathematics and logic to resolve complicated issues for a company.

For the most part, you will work in an office, although some travel may be required. A bachelor's degree in mathematics, engineering, or computer science may get you in the door, although some companies prefer to hire workers with master's degrees.

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Bottom line

Falling into a career crisis after turning 50 can be unsettling. However, it is possible to find a second career that both helps you get ahead financially and gives you more satisfaction on the job.

The jobs on this list pay well, but don't require you to work too hard physically or to log too many hours. That makes them potentially good second career choices for people in their 50s, 60s, and beyond.

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