I’ve always been skeptical of the idea that a college degree is the only way to land jobs that pay 100k a year without a degree.
Growing up, I watched friends drown in student debt while I hustled my way into high-paying roles.
It’s not easy, but it’s doable.
Here’s my take on careers that can get you to six figures without a four-year degree.
I’ll break down the jobs, skills, and steps I’ve seen work, based on my own journey and research.
Let’s get into it.

Why Skip the Degree?

College isn’t for everyone.
It wasn’t for me.
The cost of tuition kept climbing, and I wasn’t sold on spending four years in a classroom.
Turns out, plenty of industries value skills, certifications, and experience over a diploma.
The job market’s changing—skills-based hiring is taking over.
Here are some careers that prove you don’t need a degree to make bank.

Top Jobs That Pay 100K Without a Degree

1. Tech Sales Manager

I stumbled into tech sales by accident.
Selling software or cloud solutions to businesses can net you serious cash.
Average salary: $161,920.
You need strong communication skills and a knack for closing deals.
No degree required—just experience and a high school diploma.

2. Air Traffic Controller

This one’s intense but rewarding.
Managing aircraft movements is high-stakes, and the pay reflects that.
Average salary: $130,000–$257,000.
You’ll need FAA training and a high school diploma.
Small airports are a good starting point before moving to major hubs.

3. Real Estate Broker

I know folks who’ve made a killing selling properties.
Average salary: $100,000–$180,000.
Get a real estate license, which takes way less time than a degree.
Hustle, network, and work odd hours to hit six figures.

4. Web Developer

I taught myself to code through online courses.
Building websites or apps can lead to big paychecks.
Average salary: $100,000+.
Learn JavaScript, Python, or HTML through bootcamps or self-study.
Remote work is a bonus.

5. Commercial Pilot

Flying cargo planes or charters doesn’t require a degree.
Average salary: $100,000+.
You’ll need FAA certifications and flight hours, which cost money upfront.
The payoff? High earnings and a cool job.

6. Construction Manager

Overseeing building projects is lucrative if you’re organized.
Average salary: $100,000+.
Start in entry-level roles and work your way up.
Certifications help, but experience is king.

7. Elevator Technician

This one surprised me.
Installing and fixing elevators pays well due to the technical skills.
Average salary: $100,000–$128,660.
A four-year apprenticeship and a high school diploma get you in.

8. Cybersecurity Specialist

I’ve seen friends pivot into cybersecurity with just certifications.
Average salary: $90,000–$100,000+.
Start with a help desk job, then get certified (Security+, CISSP).
The tech industry’s desperate for talent.

How I Got Started: Tips for Landing These Jobs

Breaking into these fields isn’t a cakewalk, but it’s not rocket science either.
Here’s what worked for me and others I’ve talked to:

  • Get certified: Look into industry-specific credentials.
    For example, FAA for pilots or CompTIA for cybersecurity.

  • Build a portfolio: Web developers, show off your websites.
    Sales folks, track your wins.

  • Network like crazy: LinkedIn and industry events are gold.
    I landed my first gig through a contact at a meetup.

  • Start small: Entry-level roles in construction or tech can lead to six figures with experience.

  • Learn on the job: Many of these roles offer training.
    Take advantage of it.

  • Stay current: Tech and trades evolve fast.
    Follow industry trends on sites like Indeed or The Ehlers-Danlos Society for health-related career tips.

Challenges You Might Face

I won’t sugarcoat it—these paths have hurdles.
You’ll need grit and patience.
Here’s what I ran into:

  • Upfront costs: Certifications or training (like flight school) can be pricey.

  • Experience gap: Some roles require years of work to hit 100k.
    Start early and be patient.

  • High pressure: Jobs like air traffic control or sales come with stress.
    You’ve got to handle it.

  • Location matters: Pay varies by region.
    Alaska’s oil industry pays more than small-town gigs.

Why These Jobs Are Worth It

The payoff is huge.
No student debt.
Flexible hours in some roles.
Plus, you’re building skills that are in demand.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says many of these fields are growing faster than average.
For example, cybersecurity jobs are projected to grow 23% by 2025.
That’s job security.

FAQs About Jobs That Pay 100K Without a Degree

Q: Can I really make 100k without a degree?
Yes! Roles like tech sales, real estate, and web development reward skills and hustle over diplomas.

Q: Do these jobs require any education?
Some need certifications or apprenticeships, but they’re shorter and cheaper than college.
Think bootcamps or trade programs.

Q: How long does it take to hit six figures?
Depends on the job.
Sales or tech can take 2–5 years; pilots or controllers might take longer due to training.

Q: Are these jobs stable?
Many are.
Tech, construction, and aviation have strong demand.
Check Resume Genius for growth projections.

Q: What’s the easiest way to start?
Pick a field you’re curious about.
Start with free online courses or entry-level roles.
Build from there.

My Biggest Takeaway

I used to think a degree was my only shot at a good life.
Wrong.
The world’s changing, and employers care more about what you can do than what’s on your resume.
Whether it’s coding, selling, or fixing elevators, there’s a path for you.
The key is to start now—take a course, get a certification, or just apply.
You don’t need a degree to live well.
You just need a plan and some hustle to land jobs that pay 100k a year without a degree.