These Are The Best Jobs Without A Bachelor’s Degree In Every State
Conventional wisdom suggests that you need at least a bachelor’s degree to really get ahead in life. Every year hundreds of thousands of young people go to college straight out of high school, with no passion and no motivation. Why do they do it? Simply because they think you must have a degree in something to land a good job.
The fact is, though, that you really don’t need a degree to get a job with a decent salary. No matter where you live in the U.S., there are jobs and industries that pay well – even if you don’t have a generic college degree. The U.S. has 30 million good jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, or any degree at all. Here’s a look at the best-paying, non-degreed jobs in each state…
Tennessee
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
With the tourism industry booming, employment opportunities in Tennessee are looking downright rosy – it’s the state seeing the fastest growth in terms of international visitors. Foreign visitors are spending roughly $934 million here per year. More tourism dollars flowing in means more jobs for Tennessee residents.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are:
- Management, paying a median of $65,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying an average of $59,000
- Sales, paying $58,000
Outpatient care is the state’s biggest industry, but it may require a degree or special qualifications and certifications to land a job in that sector. Wholesale trades, healthcare, and social services saw strong job growth in 2018, says the state’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development – and all are expected to continue seeing some growth through the coming years as well.
New Jersey
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $61,000
With three seaports and a major international airport in Newark, New Jersey boasts a highly successful transportation-and-distribution hub that employs countless workers who don’t have or need degrees to get the job done. In fact, some of the most lucrative jobs in New Jersey rely on skilled labor, instead. And, due to the presence of the U.S. Navy, good jobs are not hard to find.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are:
- Management, paying an average of $77,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $67,000
- Construction, paying $66,000 on average
Besides transportation, New Jersey’s other major industries include biopharmaceuticals, chemical and metal manufacturing, and technology services. Healthcare is also expected to see strong growth in the state, with models projecting growth at least through 2020. But, all in all, for the average degreeless worker, New Jersey has quite a lot to offer.
Wisconsin
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
Wisconsin, aka “America’s Dairyland,” might lead the nation in milk production, but job opportunities in Wisconsin go far beyond simply making cheese. Financial services make up the fastest-growing industry in the state, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. predicts that within five to ten years, the state will have more jobs in finance than available workers to fill those jobs.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying $67,000 per year on average
- Construction, paying $59,000
Wisconsin positions in finance not requiring bachelor’s degrees include jobs for real estate brokers, insurance agents, and computer programmers in the emerging field of fintech. So, while the current best paying, non-degreed jobs might be in management and construction, there will be lots of opportunity in the financial sector in the coming years for those who don’t have a bachelor’s.
Georgia
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
Georgia’s economy has been continuously expanding since 2009, says the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Georgia is one of the top states for growing jobs that don’t require a four-year degree. Since 1991, it’s added 63,000 blue-collar jobs and 232,000 skilled-service jobs. The state’s economy added another 76,200 jobs in 2018 and expects to add even more in the years to come.
The best jobs in Georgia not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $65,000
- Construction and extraction, paying $62,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $61,000
The state’s largest industries include energy, car-making, film, tourism and agriculture. Georgia holds its position as the largest pecan producer in the world; it also provides peaches, blueberries, peanuts, and Vidalia onions. Plus, with a booming housing market and ongoing improvements to infrastructure, Georgia is fast becoming one of the most popular states to relocate to for work.
Alaska
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $62,000
Lower oil prices have been holding back Alaska’s economic growth in past years. Few jobs are being added, causing Moody’s to predict Alaska will have a pretty poor employment outlook over the next five years. It might even be the worst in the U.S. With unemployment high, Alaska’s net migration – people leaving – out of the state is second-worst in the country, after Illinois.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying a median of $83,000
- Construction and extraction, paying $73,000 on average
- Management, paying about $72,000 per year
The state’s top industries are petroleum, its hugely impressive $1.8 billion tourism industry, and – perhaps what Alaska is most well-known for – its generations-old fishing industry. For those living in (or looking to) Alaska, it might be worth considering another state in your search for employment. But, if you love a rugged lifestyle and aren’t opposed to hard work, Alaska just might be the state for you.
North Dakota
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $57,000
North Dakota is a remote state known for a strong farming culture and a recent economic boom driven by the oil and natural gas discovered beneath the state’s vast, wide plains. Although 90% of North Dakota’s land is still used for farming, its oil and gas extraction industry has far outstripped agriculture as the state’s main source of economic growth.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying $80,000 per year on average
- Management, paying $70,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying about $67,000
Despite the boom in oil and natural gas, North Dakota is trying to keep its economy as diverse as possible so it doesn’t rely too heavily on energy. For non-degree workers, that means job opportunities in construction, transportation, manufacturing, and retail are plentiful and can even lead to fantastic opportunities in management and other industries. If you’re looking for your own home on the range, North Dakota might just be the place for you.
Wyoming
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $62,000
Wyoming is America’s least populous state and best known for its national parks and outdoor tourism industry. It also boasts one of the largest shares of good jobs held by workers without bachelor’s degrees at 62%. So, if you don’t have a degree and are looking for some of the best opportunities, don’t forget to check out Wyoming.
Wyoming’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying an average of $80,000
- Manufacturing, paying $72,000
- Installation, maintenance, and repair, paying $70,000 on average
The state lost about 1,000 mining jobs in 2015 and 2016 as coal production fell by nearly 100 million tons, says the Casper Star Tribune. But, the state’s construction and tourism sectors have been going strong and are expected to see continued growth in the coming years.
Utah
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Like many other states, Utah has a proud mining history. In fact, gold is still the state’s most valuable export. But tourism also is a booming industry, thanks to the state’s five incredible national parks, seven national monuments, six national forests, and several world-famous ski resorts. If you’re looking for work that doesn’t require a degree and offers lots of great outdoors activities, Utah could be just what you’re looking for.
Utah’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average of $67,000
- Transportation, paying $60,000
- Sales, also paying an average of $60,000 per year
The largest employer in Utah is Intermountain Healthcare, providing work for around 38,000 people. But, once again, healthcare may require special degrees and/or certifications to qualify. Besides its many jobs in mining, farming, and tourism, Utah has one of the highest concentrations of aerospace positions in the U.S., including related military jobs – meaning, if you’re looking to broaden your horizons, Utah might be the place to do it.
Oklahoma
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
Oklahoma’s economy has been growing steadily for the past few years. Unemployment is down in 75 of the state’s 77 counties, and more jobs are being added each year. Just about 20% of all jobs in Oklahoma are tied to oil and natural gas. The energy industry can be a volatile one, but Oklahoma has other strong sectors that can help keep the state’s economy steady even if oil prices and demand fluctuate.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying a median of $64,000
- Management, paying $62,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $60,000
The other industries that Oklahoma is seeing some excellent growth in include financial services, transportation and distribution, agriculture, and aerospace and defense. Rest assured, if Oklahoma is where you live – or where you’re thinking about living – regardless of what happens to the oil industry, you’ll still be able to find jobs that pay well. Even if you don’t have a degree.
Montana
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $57,000
Montana residents have benefited from some of the nation’s largest gains in good-paying skilled-services jobs since 1991. Even though the state is synonymous with copper mining and agriculture, Montana has a diverse economy. Other major industries here include travel and tourism, construction, and timber. Healthcare is expected to add the most jobs over the next decade – an estimated 1,300 per year.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying a median of $75,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying out $64,000
- Management, paying $61,000 on average
When looking for a job in Montana, your best bet may be sticking to major cities. Larger populations will have stronger economies and will have better – and more – opportunities when it comes to jobs. While some entry-level jobs may pay below the national average, the cost of living in the state can balance that out.
Massachusetts
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $60,000
Massachusetts boasts a highly educated population, but has lost approximately 105,000 blue-collar jobs and 20,000 skilled-services jobs since 1991. Despite this downturn in blue-collar and skilled jobs, the state has built a sizable healthcare industry and a fast-growing technology sector. Massachusetts is even ranked no. 1 in the U.S. for high-tech research and development – including life science – according to the Boston Globe.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $72,000 per year
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying an average of $63,000 annually
There is some good news for workers without four-year degrees, though. It’s that not only does Massachusetts have a long-established manufacturing industry, but the fishing, food processing, and food storage industries also are reliable sources of jobs that do not require a bachelor’s degree to qualify for. So, while Mass might not be on the top of the list, it’s worth another look on your job hunt.
Maine
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
The past couple of decades have seen major changes in Maine’s economy, including the kinds of jobs available to those with and without bachelor’s degrees. Its technology, tourism, and healthcare industries have grown as other sectors have contracted. Traditionally, Maine was a shipbuilding and paper-making hub, with an added focus on fishing. But, as technology has been pushed to the forefront, many skilled jobs are disappearing.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, with an average salary of $65,000
- Manufacturing, paying $60,000
- Production, paying around $58,000
Maine still produces more paper, grows more wild strawberries, and ships out more lobster than most other states put together. But jobs have been slipping away from those areas. With its pretty coastline, Maine has a tourism industry that has grown to 85,500 jobs and $2.2 billion in annual revenue. If you’re looking for a job in Maine without a degree, tech and tourism are likely to be your best bets.
Kansas
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
In recent years, Kansas has been posting fantastic numbers for job growth as reported by the Kansas Department of Labor. The economy has added just over 19,000 jobs since May 2017 – a 1.4% increase on previous years. Kansas’ agriculture industry leads the country in wheat milling and production, and the state ranks third for beef production.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $62,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying an average of $61,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $60,000
While Kansas has always been a strong producer of oil and natural gas, it’s been embracing alternative energy sources, including wind and solar power. As the world turns more to alternative energy, landing a job in Kansas could be your ticket into an industry that will change the way the world sees energy.
Idaho
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
Idaho’s population is booming and, according to Forbes, Boise is positioned as the fastest-growing metro area in the United States. Droves of out-of-state workers are coming to find jobs in Idaho’s growing tech industry, which, of course, is centered in Boise as reported by NPR. Computer chip makers Micron Technology and ON Semiconductor are major players in the state’s tech industry.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $61,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $60,000
- Sales, paying $57,000 on average
Idaho’s top industries also include food processing, chemicals, lumber/wood/paper products, mining, and tourism. Unlike many states that have posted big job losses for workers without four-year degrees, Idaho has added 34,000 blue collar jobs and 37,000 skilled-services positions since 1991. Continued growth in jobs for workers without degrees is expected, and the state is poised to accommodate droves of new residents.
Florida
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
The outlook is sunnier than ever for job hunters in Florida. Researchers with the Florida Chamber Foundation report that the state added close to 180,000 jobs in 2018, and say 265,000 positions are still waiting to be filled right now. Given the availability of jobs, maybe it’s no wonder 900 newcomers move to Florida every day. Still, employers say it’s been hard to find qualified workers to fill their openings.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average of $63,000 a year
- Transportation and utilities, paying $58,000
- Sales, paying $57,000
Workers without four-year degrees should find plenty of opportunities in Florida’s cruise industry, its major international exports sector, and the many aerospace companies with operations in Florida. While you’re not likely to score a top job at NASA without a degree, you could very well find yourself with an opportunity to get a foot in the door.
West Virginia
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $58,000
It’s well known that West Virginia’s economy has long relied on coal mining. But the coal industry has been in decline in recent years, which has West Virginia looking to tap a treasure trove of other natural resources. The state has a large store of recoverable natural gas in the Marcellus and Utica shales in the north, and the Rogersville Shale in the south, say West Virginia University experts, plus raw materials for metal production.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying an average of $70,000
- Construction and extraction, paying $66,000
- Management, paying up to $65,000 annually
As the Mountain State charts a course for a prosperous future, hiring is expected to expand in the tourism, energy, aerospace, and biotech sectors, says the West Virginia Department of Commerce.
Texas
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $57,000
Texans should be doing a happy dance to the beat of the state’s thriving job market. Between April 2017 and April 2018, the state added 332,300 new nonfarm jobs – an impressive 2.7% increase. And this growth is only expected to continue. With so many job opportunities, Texas’ population is now growing twice as fast as that of California (more on that in a minute).
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $70,000 per year
- Manufacturing, paying $61,000
The energy industry – including oil and gas extraction – is huge in the Lone Star State. And Texas is making significant job gains in mining, logging, construction, and manufacturing according to the Texas Labor Market Review. So, if you’re looking for big sky, great music, and wide open spaces, then Texas needs to be on your job hunting radar.
South Carolina
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $53,000
Though South Carolina may be known for its beaches and farm land, the state’s biggest export is actually automotive equipment. In fact, South Carolina is home to the BMW Car Club of America National Headquarters. Administrative and support services make up the next largest industry in the state, and account for many of the jobs available to the average worker with no degree.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $63,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying about $57,000
South Carolina’s great selection of jobs in administration includes general management, human resources, and clerical work – none of which require a bachelor’s degree. Nearly half the state’s workers with good jobs don’t hold four-year degrees, according to the Georgetown University study, making this state one of the most friendly to those who don’t have a degree of any kind.
Oregon
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Oregon is seeing a massive population explosion thanks to its healthy job market and higher than average quality of life. The state has a thriving computer and electronics industry that employs more than 37,000 people statewide. Besides technology, other sectors that will keep adding jobs are metals, machinery, and medical products manufacturing according to Business Oregon.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, with an average salary of $67,000
- Construction, paying $60,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $58,000 per year
Organic food and beverages, forestry, and outdoor gear are also industries that will see an upswing in available jobs in the coming years, reports Business Oregon. As in the rest of the country, Oregon’s health sector is growing fast, as well. In fact, Providence Health & Services is the largest single employer in the state, with more than 21,000 employees.
New Mexico
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $58,000
After decades of strong economic and population growth, New Mexico is starting to see slightly tougher times. Despite the state adding around 14,000 jobs between 2017 and 2018, its recovery from the recent recession has been slow and – according to some – even stagnant. Oil and gas production, tourism, and jobs with the federal government are New Mexico’s main economic engines and job creators.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, with an average salary of $70,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $62,000 annually
- Management, also paying $62,000
While more young adults – think college-age students – and seniors are moving to New Mexico, taxpaying adult workers aged 30 to 59 are leaving in droves, says U.S. News. This poses a major problem for the state’s cash-poor government, and for business. So, while there are likely to be a good amount of opportunities for the average worker, New Mexico might not be on the top of your list.
Missouri
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
Visitors are probably most familiar with the major hubs like St. Louis and Kansas City, but farmland actually makes up most of Missouri’s footprint. Because of this, the agri-food sector has been a major moneymaker for the state. Missouri government officials are determined to expand the state’s businesses and bring in new investment and, with it, new residents and better job opportunities.
Missouri’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median salary of $64,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying about $60,000
- Construction, paying about $57,000 annually
In addition to agriculture and food, the auto industry is back in full force, thanks to big investments from GM and Ford. Missouri’s natural resources are also ready to be tapped for energy-sector growth, and IT is growing thanks to major retailers setting up data centers in the state.
Kentucky
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
Kentucky has come a long way from its coal mining past (but its bourbon is still the stuff of legend, of course). Today, four out of five of the largest employers in the state are in healthcare and employ almost 260,000 people. Kentucky’s fast-growing colleges – the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville – support a booming healthcare sector.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average of $66,000
- Construction and extraction, paying $60,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $59,000 on average
Additionally, the state is now America’s shipping and logistics hub. It’s home to UPS’ Worldport Hub, DHL’s Superhub, and Amazon’s Prime Air Hub. If you’re looking for a mix of Southern charm, excellent healthcare, and a plethora of job opportunities that don’t require a degree, Kentucky just might be the next place you should call home.
Indiana
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
Indiana has had a somewhat rough decade since the Great Recession ended, but some economists say the state is nearing full employment and projected to make a comeback – especially in the automotive industry. Hondas, Toyotas and Subarus are assembled in Indiana, and the state’s auto parts industry is expected to be stable in the coming years, and continue to provide jobs.
Indiana’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying $63,000 on average
- Transportation and utilities, paying a median of $60,000
- Construction and extraction, paying about $58,000
The state is also likely to add jobs in pharmaceuticals, says the Indiana Business Review. Transportation, information technology, manufacturing research, and design round out the Hoosier State’s top industries. If you live in Indiana, or are thinking of moving there but don’t have a degree, you can rest easy. With Indiana’s economy expected to grow, finding a job shouldn’t be a problem.
Hawaii
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $57,000
Hawaii’s gorgeous island ecosystem supports its biggest industry: tourism. Hawaiian tourism has been growing year after year, with visitor arrivals during 2018 up 8.2% compared to the same period in 2017, says the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Typically, skilled-services jobs for non-degree workers pay better in Hawaii than in many other states in the U.S. What better reason to look for work in the Aloha State?
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average of $65,000
- Construction and extraction, paying $62,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $61,000
Tropical Hawaii grows, processes, and exports many of its own natural resources: sugar cane, pineapples, flowers, coffee and macadamia nuts being among the top exports. The services and hospitality industry – including hotels, finance, government, real estate and private healthcare – is also going strong, and is expected to see continued growth over the next decade.
Delaware
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Led by Delaware’s explosive finance and insurance industry, the First State has the fastest growing economy in the United States right now, according to the U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis. Delaware, a small state with just under one million residents, has added an average of 3,400 new jobs a year since 2008. The state’s population is growing by 10,000 residents a year.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $67,000 a year
- Healthcare, paying $61,000 (sometimes certain certifications are still required)
- Construction, paying an average of $58,000
Financial advisers, computer systems analysts, and social workers are among the state’s most in-demand workers right now. Teacher assistants, office clerks, construction workers, carpenters, truck drivers and freight movers are also positions that are in need of workers, as well. While Delaware might be just a small state, its economy packs a punch that shouldn’t be ignored in your next job search.
California
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $59,000
Thanks to its diversity, new ventures, and sheer number of productive workers, California has the world’s fifth largest economy. The state’s impressive job growth has been led primarily by financial services, real estate, and manufacturing. The University of California is the largest single employer in the state, employing around 198,000 people alone.
California’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average salary of $72,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $62,000
In California, residents may not struggle to find work, but the state’s mind-bogglingly expensive real estate market can make it hard for workers to find affordable housing. Many residents choose to rent over purchasing and even enlist multiple roommates to split housing expenses. The housing market is worth paying attention to if you’re looking for work in Cali. While the job market is expected to grow, so is the average home value – which can not only drive up home prices but also the rents, as well.
Arizona
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
Arizona was among the states hit hardest by the recession, but the state’s current outlook is good once again. In 2017, Arizona was among the top 10 states for job creation, new people moving in, and population growth, according to reports by AZ Central. Arizona State University reports that the state added around 69,000 jobs in 2018, and another 85,000 in 2019.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, which pays an average of $65,000
- Manufacturing, paying $59,000
- Sales, paying $58,000
Education, health services, and construction are among the industries adding the most blue-collar and skilled-services positions not requiring four-year degrees, says the University of Arizona’s Economic and Business Research Center. With employment opportunities expected to increase, if you like cacti, breathtaking scenery, and wide open skies, Arizona deserves to be on your list.
Washington
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $59,000
Between 1991 and 2015, Washington State added about 30,000 good-paying blue-collar jobs and 93,000 well-paying, skilled services jobs, according to Georgetown University. The largest single employer in Washington State is a major player in the aerospace industry: the giant aircraft-maker Boeing, which has roughly 71,000 workers alone. Despite this growth, rising home prices could impact the workforce in unexpected ways.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $71,000
- Manufacturing, paying $63,000
Workers without degrees can look forward to new opportunities in Washington’s clean energy, maritime, and technology industries – sectors the state is committed to expanding, says the Washington Department of Commerce. With so much expansion going on, Washington State is a prime location for those looking to get their foot in the door with up-and-coming businesses, startups, and even tried-and-true players in the energy sector.
Vermont
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
Like many other East Coast states, Vermont is a leader in both healthcare and education. So it should come as no surprise that the largest single employer in the state is the University of Vermont Medical Center, with over 7,860 workers. Though the state’s top employer is tied to a public university, Vermont’s main export isn’t med school grads – it’s computer chips.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $65,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $60,000
- Sales, which pays about $57,000
And, while computer chips might be the state’s biggest export, you don’t necessarily need a bachelor’s degree to work in chip manufacturing. The top five industries employing people without four-year degrees are manufacturing, construction, health services, retail trade, and finance. What’s more, each of those industries offers room for growth and promotions.
South Dakota
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $52,000
South Dakota’s fields and fertile farmlands may have served as the inspiration for Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved series The Little House on the Prairie, but the state’s agriculture economy has been struggling in recent years. Non-farming industries, though, are doing just fine. South Dakota’s Department of Labor projects that the state’s manufacturing industry will add 3,000 more workers by 2024 and that jobs will be available for welders, assemblers, machinists, and inspectors.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Transportation and utilities, paying a median of $61,000 per year
- Management, paying $59,000
- Sales, paying a cool $56,000
Who says you need a bachelor’s degree to get anywhere? South Dakota sure doesn’t. Given the growing number of skilled jobs in this state, the employment outlook for workers without bachelor’s degrees is promising. In fact, almost 70% of workers in South Dakota do not hold four-year degrees.
Rhode Island
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Rhode Island’s rebound from the Great Recession has been slow, says the New England Economic Partnership. In fact, Rhode Island still hasn’t recovered all of the jobs that were lost over a decade ago. On the upside, Rhode Island has gained 15,000 skilled-services positions since 1991. That’s a 37% increase in good jobs for workers without four-year degrees.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $71,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $58,000
- Construction, paying $57,000 on average
Most of the skilled-services jobs gained are in healthcare and financial services, says WPRI. The state’s biggest single employer is the Lifespan system of hospitals, with around 14,000 workers. So, if Rhode Island is your destination of choice, make sure you’re looking for jobs in those sectors. Not only do they pay a great starting wage, but these jobs usually offer opportunities to grow with the company.
Ohio
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
Ohio’s population is growing faster than other Midwestern states, despite sluggishness in Northern Ohio. The state’s largest industry is healthcare, and its shining star is the Cleveland Clinic, one of the largest hospitals in the country. Ohio’s automotive industry also has a promising future, and is expected to increase its workforce by 19% to 28,800 employees by 2024, according to Cleveland.com.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying, on average, $65,000 annually
- Transportation and utilities, paying $59,000
The state’s steel, oil, and natural gas industries are also primed to grow in terms of jobs that don’t require a four-year degree – or any degree for that matter. If you’re not afraid of hard, intense work, Ohio might just be the place for you to find a job that can propel you forward.
North Carolina
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $53,000
Historically, North Carolina’s tobacco, furniture, and textiles were its main money makers – but today, the state is more focused on farming, producing fine wines, and high-tech engineered fabrics and materials. North Carolina is also home to banking giants Bank of America and BB&T. With such big names in finance, you can probably guess where you’ll find some of the best jobs without a degree.
North Carolina’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying $65,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying an average of $57,000
- Sales, paying about $56,000
Other industries that are major employers include aviation and defense, trucking, IT, energy, and pharmaceuticals, according to the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. In 2017, Forbes even ranked North Carolina as the Best State for Business for the first time ever. Over the last several years, North Carolina’s economy has only grown and is expected to continue to improve and thrive.
New Hampshire
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $58,000
It’s a little bit of a mixed bag for workers without bachelor’s degrees in New Hampshire at the moment. The state has a strong economy backed by tourism, healthcare, and high-tech manufacturing, but job growth has been slow in past years and the trends aren’t projecting any upward movement in the short-term. New Hampshire has been losing jobs in construction, the hospitality industry, and retail.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $71,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying an average of $64,000 annually
One of the reasons jobs are slipping away is that it’s difficult for employers to attract workers to New Hampshire, given the state’s aging population and limited housing. On top of limited housing, the state also has housing, utility, and food costs above the national average, making New Hampshire one of the more expensive states to live in compared to the average salary earned.
Mississippi
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $53,000
With over 11 million acres of farmland and 30% of its population working in agriculture, farming is quite clearly Mississippi’s leading industry. Manufacturing gets the second spot. In recent years, though, Mississippi’s largest employment increases – based on percentages – have been seen in natural resources and mining.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $66,000 annually
- Transportation and utilities, paying $59,000
- Construction, paying about $55,000
Although both the gambling and entertainment industries grew wildly a decade or so ago, the recession pulled the plug on almost all of that. Fewer visitors and locals wanted to risk their money on gambling, opting instead to travel elsewhere or simply come to enjoy time on the Gulf.
Louisiana
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $60,000
Louisiana may be famous for jazz, excellent soul food, and Mardi Gras, but the economic lifeblood of Louisiana is in oil refining. Although Louisiana does have a little diversity in its industries and economic engines, it’s still heavily dependent on oil and its fluctuating prices. In the aftermath of the recession and due to volatility in oil prices, Louisiana has struggled to grow its economy and jobs.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Natural resources, paying an average of $77,000
- Management, paying up to $70,000
- Construction and extraction, paying $66,000
In 2017, it had the worst economic growth in the United States for the second year in a row, according to U.S. News. The state’s strongest sectors for jobs not requiring bachelor’s degrees are utilities, construction, and oil and gas extraction. If soul food speaks to your … well … soul, and you’re not opposed to potentially working offshore, you need to add Louisiana to your potential list of places to go job hunting.
Iowa
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $53,000
So far, Iowa is having a truly great couple of years. The state now has the fastest-growing housing stock in the United States, personal income is rising steadily, and unemployment levels are the third-lowest in the country, according to Iowa Workforce Development. What’s more is that Iowa has plenty of great opportunities for workers who don’t have four-year degrees.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $65,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $60,000
- Sales, paying $56,000
The state’s largest single employer is the University of Iowa, with 25,000 people on staff. Iowa has a strong agriculture and food industry that make up the backbone of the economy. It’s also invested in renewable and alternative energies, including ethanol, wind, and biodiesel production. Plus, it’s rich and ever-growing tech industry employs close to 80,000 people.
Connecticut
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $60,000
Connecticut is the top state for insurance and financial services, has the fifth-largest concentration of scientists, and is a leader for large-scale manufacturing. Connecticut’s growing industries also include digital media – e.g., video production, software design, and television –and tourism. And who can resist those gorgeous autumn colors? If you can’t, then why not consider Connecticut in your next job hunt?
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying $78,000 on average
- IT, finance, and real estate, all tie at about $66,000
- Manufacturing, paying $62,000
Workers tend to earn more in Connecticut than in other states, too, and good jobs are plentiful for those without four-year degrees. Work experience also tends to matter a little bit more to employers than simply having a degree. In certain fields, relevant work experience can lead to a higher-than-average starting management salary and, of course, the opportunity to move up the ladder.
Arkansas
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $54,000
While Arkansas isn’t letting go of its strong agricultural roots anytime soon, it’s slowly becoming more of a center for transportation and logistics thanks to the presence of the discount store giant, WalMart. The presence of WalMart has caused rural areas to shrink and suburban towns and cities to begin to expand as populations are looking to be closer to amenities.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $62,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying an average of $60,000
- Sales, paying $57,000 annually
Manufacturing is the industry with the most non-degree jobs in Arkansas. An estimated 48,000, to be specific. Food production now makes up 30% of all manufacturing jobs in the state. Arkansas’ biggest export is aerospace and related aircraft parts, and logging is at an all-time high. So even if manufacturing isn’t your bag, there may be other opportunities in Arkansas that you can snag, even without a degree.
Virginia
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $57,000
Agriculture has historically been Virginia’s economic backbone. Today, the state is a major producer of soy, tomatoes, and tobacco. It also has a huge food production industry. Health services make up the fastest-growing industry in Virginia. The state gained 2,400 healthcare jobs in 2018 alone and opportunities in the healthcare industry are only projected to increase in the coming years.
Virginia’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median salary of $72,000
- Public administration, paying $63,000 on average
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $60,000
Virginia lost 100,000 blue-collar jobs between 1991 and 2015. But, it gained 59,000 skilled-services positions during that time, and the state’s unemployment rate has recently hit its lowest levels in more than 10 years. So, while Virginia hasn’t quite made up for that initial loss of blue-collar jobs, they’re well on their way to picking up the pace over the next decade.
Pennsylvania
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
The Keystone State has seen great development and growth in recent years. It was one of the top five states for economic growth in 2017 and is projected to continue this path of upward motion. The largest industry in Pennsylvania is finance, including insurance and real estate, according to the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis, so many opportunities can be found in that sector.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $67,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $60,000.
Pennsylvania used to be known for its steel mills. Today, its main manufactured exports are coal, medicines and vaccines, propane, aircraft engines and parts, and motorcycles, according to research by the U.S. Census Bureau. While your best bet for a non-degree job in Pennsylvania might be in finance, there are sure to be great opportunities in many industries.
New York
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $59,000
New York’s economy is the third-largest in the United States – and is steadily growing. In June 2018, the state’s private sector added 15,000 jobs, according to the New York State Department of Labor. Yet, as jobs in the private sector have risen, the number of jobs for workers without four-year degrees has fallen significantly in recent years due to jobs being sent overseas.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $70,000
- Information and financial services – including real estate – paying $62,000
New York has lost over 340,000 blue-collar jobs and 120,000 skilled-services jobs since 1991, as lower-paying manufacturing jobs moved overseas. In their place, New York has focused on the more skilled manufacturing of computer products, cell phones, video games, and more. Big opportunities also still exist in education, professional and technical services, and, of course, healthcare.
Nevada
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $55,000
When the going gets tough, the tough get going – and Nevada is nothing if not tough. In recent years, job growth in the Battle Born State has been staggering. After losing 175,000 jobs in the Great Recession, the state has managed to create 250,000 new jobs, according to the Sierra Sun. So, if breathtaking scenic views and the allure of desert are calling to you, home just might mean Nevada for you, too.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average of $62,000
- Construction and extraction, paying about $60,000 annually
The multi-billion-dollar tourism and gaming industries in Las Vegas have recovered, and northern Nevada – particularly Reno – has profited from a tide of technology companies coming over from California. That includes Tesla, which employs around 6,500 people at its Gigafactory. While other states have lost hundreds of thousands of jobs for people without bachelor’s degrees since 1991, Nevada has added 38,000 blue-collar positions and 83,000 skilled-services jobs.
Minnesota
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Boasting low unemployment rates and lots of jobs for workers without bachelor’s degrees, Minnesota is booming thanks to its diversifying economy. Like many states, healthcare has become the most prominent industry in the state. The Mayo Clinic is the state’s largest employer, with nearly 35,000 workers. Manufacturing has a strong presence here, as well.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, averaging about $68,000
- Construction, paying $60,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $60,000, as well
- Sales, also paying an average of $60,000 annually
The state also is the top producer of wind power in the country. The related reduction in energy costs is helping to lure more data-center hosting companies to settle here. If you’re interested in getting in on alternative energy, healthcare, or manufacturing then Minnesota could be where it’s at for you.
Maryland
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $60,000
Maryland currently leads the United States in producing delicious blue crabs and soft-shell clams, but there’s a lot more going on here than seafood and fishing. The state’s top industries also include aerospace, defense, and manufacturing. While Maryland manufacturing is focused on printing and publishing, food and machinery are also big in the manufacturing sector.
Maryland’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $73,000
- Public administration, paying $71,000
- Professional and management services, paying $70,000
The state is becoming known as a center for cybersecurity. Biomedical science and research is also a big economic and employment driver, with Johns Hopkins University and its institutions alone employing more than 51,000 people in the state. Plus, a lower-than-regional-average cost of living and its proximity to Washington, D.C. makes Maryland a prime choice for those looking to live and work somewhere they might consider the center of it all.
Illinois
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $58,000
Illinois, sadly, isn’t looking so hot right now for the average worker without a four-year degree. Due to political issues and poor economic management, the state is deep in debt. This pushed legislators to raise business and property taxes, leading to an exodus of big business from the state, according to reports from U.S. News. Worse, as businesses have been leaving Illinois, they’ve taken workers with them.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $70,000 annually
- Construction and extraction, paying $63,000
Today, the state has the highest migration rate in the U.S. and the lowest credit rating ever given to a state, according to Forbes. Talk about a one-two punch. Yet the Land of Lincoln is still home to 68 of the 1,000 largest companies in the U.S. by revenue, so it’s not devoid of potential. It also has a diverse range of industries, like its huge services and hospitality sectors, accounting firms, and healthcare providers.
Colorado
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $57,000
Colorado’s current economy is practically buzzing with energy and has been rated one of the best economies in the United States. Technology, agriculture, real estate, craft beer, cannabis, energy, and tourism are the fastest-growing industries defining the Colorado economy, according to local news outlet KMGH-TV. Hubs like Denver, Boulder, and Breckinridge are hotspots for opportunities that don’t require bachelor’s degrees.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $66,000 annually
- Manufacturing, paying $60,000 on average
- Sales, also paying an average of $60,000
One of Colorado’s greatest employment engines has been Lockheed Martin, which has increased its workforce in the state by more than 1,000 workers since 2014 and are building a new $350 million satellite production facility. Another fantastic job generator is the state’s craft brewing industry. Colorado’s impressive 300 craft brewers lead the world in craft beer production.
Nebraska
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $53,000
Where there’s beef? It’s in Nebraska. Food manufacturing is the state’s largest industry by total payroll dollars, and it’s adding thousands of jobs every single year. Another major player, rail transportation, carries the food produced in Nebraska to the rest of the country, so the two industries are closely linked. Military and defense hiring has been steady here, as well.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average salary of $62,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying $61,000
- Sales, paying $60,000 on average
Some of the state’s major employers include the University of Nebraska, the Union Pacific Railroad, Mutual of Omaha, and TD Ameritrade. So, if food manufacturing and railway transportation aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of opportunities in the financial sector for workers without four-year degrees under their belts.
Michigan
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Michigan’s famed automotive industry had a rough start in the 2010s, but it’s starting to look up in the new decade. And, although you might find this shocking, car-making is not the biggest industry in Detroit. In fact, the largest industry in Detroit is finance – including insurance and real estate – according to the Center for Michigan. So, despite a rocky last decade, Michigan seems to be on the rise again.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying a median of $66,000
- Manufacturing, paying $60,000
- Transportation and utilities, also paying $60,000 on average
Unemployment in Michigan is lower than pre-recession levels, as well, and the state’s economy is larger than it has been in previous years. Today, tens of thousands of jobs – many not requiring bachelor’s degrees – are unfilled, just waiting for an eager worker to come and claim them. General Motors is still the largest single employer in Michigan, with around 53,000 workers.
Alabama
Average Income For Workers Without Degrees: $56,000
Historically known just for coal mining and steel and iron production, Alabama has come a long way in the last few decades. State officials report new investment is creating aerospace jobs, and that Alabama’s emerging biotech industry is gaining ground fast. If these high-paced, high-tech industries sound like something you’re interested in, the Yellowhammer State might just be your new home.
The state’s best jobs not requiring a bachelor’s degree are in:
- Management, paying an average salary of $65,000
- Transportation and utilities, paying about $61,000 per year
- Installation, maintenance, and repair, paying $59,000
- Manufacturing, paying $58,000 annually
Alabama is also strong in automotive manufacturing, with plants that assemble cars for Mercedes, Honda, and Hyundai. But, despite this impressive economic pivot into aerospace and tech, Alabama has not yet recovered fully from the Great Recession, and the governor is concerned that new tariffs could lose the state an estimated 4,000 jobs, making an already fragile economy even more so.