Healthcare is notoriously known as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S. job market.
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The U.S. Department of Labor reported that employment in healthcare occupations makes up about 10% of total employment in the U.S. today. What’s more? Occupations in healthcare are projected to grow at a much higher rate between 2022 and 2032 than most other industries.
If you’re considering a career in healthcare, or you’re looking to make a career change, there are a variety of positions that might be the right fit for you.
Top 10 Healthcare Jobs In 2024
Here are the 10 most well-paying healthcare jobs in descending order based on median annual wage, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor:
Physician Assistants
They examine, diagnose, and treat patients under the supervision of a physician.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $126,010
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 27% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 148,000
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Typical entry-level education required: Master’s degree
Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners
They coordinate patient care and may provide primary and specialty healthcare.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $125,900
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 38% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 323,900
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Typical entry-level education required: Master’s Degree
Optometrists
They diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $125,590
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 9% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 43,400
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Typical entry-level education required: Doctoral degree
Physical Therapists
They assess, plan, and organize rehabilitative programs to help those with injuries or illnesses improve movement and manage pain.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $97,720
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 15% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 246,800
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Typical entry-level education required: Doctoral degree
Audiologists
They diagnose, manage, and treat patients who have hearing, balance or related problems.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $82,680
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 11% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 14,400
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Typical entry-level education required: Doctoral degree
Registered Nurses
They provide and coordinate patient care and educate patients and the public about various health conditions.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $81,220
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 6% (faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 3,172,500
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Typical entry-level education required: Bachelor’s degree
Respiratory Therapists
They care for patients who have trouble breathing — for example, because of a chronic condition such as asthma.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $70,540
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 13% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 133,100
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Typical entry-level education required: Associate degree
Surgical Assistants and Technologists
They assist surgeons with various aspects of the surgical process such as setting up the operating room, passing instruments, and making incisions.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $56,350
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 5% (faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 128,900
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Typical entry-level education required: Postsecondary nondegree award
Exercise Physiologists
They assess, plan, and implement fitness and exercise programs to help people improve their health.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $51,350
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 10% (much faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 16,500
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Typical entry-level education required: Bachelor’s degree
Paramedics
They assess injuries and illnesses, provide emergency medical care, and may transport patients to medical facilities.
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Median annual wage as of 2022: $49,090
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Projected employment growth from 2022-32: 5% (faster than average)
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Number of jobs as of 2022: 98,300
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Typical entry-level education required: Postsecondary nondegree award
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Top 10 Healthcare Jobs by Salary Growth in 2024