No one knows what the future holds, but job forecasts are favoring healthcare and alternative energy as the most stable and well-paying jobs in the years to come.
If you are looking for a good-paying, high-demand middle-class job this guide will give you a good starting point.
What Is a Middle Class Job?
A recent study by Pew Research has shown that a family of three that is considered middle class has a range of income from $40,100 to $120,400. Thus, jobs that pay between this amount would be considered middle class jobs. Another study breaks middle class into 3 tiers:
- Lower middle class = $32,048 - $53,413
- Middle class = $53,413 - $106,827
- Upper middle class = $106,827 - $373,894
The Fastest-Growing Middle Class Jobs in the US
Below is a list of the fastest growing middle class jobs in the U.S. that pay between $40,000 and $120,000 per year:
#7 Medical and Health Service Managers
Higher up on the list of pay for this list, a Medical and Health Service Managers median salary is $104,280 per year.
This occupation does typically require at least a Bachelor’s Degree, with many Medical and Health Service Managers holding a Master’s Degree. The job requires working in an office inside a hospital, nursing home or group medical practice. So if you prefer to work directly with patients, this may not be your first choice.
This occupation is projected to grow by 32% through 2029 thanks to an aging population.
#6 Physical Therapy Assistants
If you love the idea of becoming a Physical Therapist, but don’t want to get your doctorate degree, consider becoming a Physical Therapy Assistant.
Physical Therapy Assistants work alongside Physical Therapists, earning a median salary of $49,970. Typically you need an Associate’s degree and should plan to be able to work on your feet setting up equipment or helping patients the majority of the day.
The outlook for this job is expected to grow 29% until 2029 due to an aging population as well as individuals with chronic illnesses such as obesity.
#5 Statisticians
Love math? Then becoming a statistician may be for you! A Statistician analyzes data and applies statistical techniques to solve problems.
The pay is much higher than average, at $93,290 per year but becoming a statistician typically requires more education as many hold a Master’s Degree.
This occupation is expected to grow 33% through 2019 due to businesses continuing to need to analyze growing digital data.
#4 Occupational Therapy Assistants
Want to help others who have injured themselves at home or work? If so, consider becoming an occupational occupational therapy assistant.
Occupational therapy assistants help others so they are able to resume their usual activities.The best part? The median wage for an Occupational Therapy Assistant is $62,940 and the occupation only requires a 2-year degree.
This occupation is also projected to grow by 32 percent through 2029, due to an continued need for individuals seeking therapy for illness, accidents, and disabilities.
#3 Solar Photovoltaic Installers
What in the world is a Solar Photovoltaic Installer? An SP installer helps set up rooftop or other systems that convert sun into solar energy.
The pay is a bit lower than some of the other careers mentioned here, at $46,470 a year but no formal education is required -- most training is done on the job. However, some take courses at 2- year or technical schools.
This occupation is projected to increase 51% from 2019-2029, with even more opportunities for those who complete training on solar panel installation.
#2 Nurse Practitioners
Nursing has long been considered one of the fastest-growing jobs, and Nurse Practitioner is up there.
Although it requires a Master’s Degree, Nurse practitioners have a median salary of $117,670 per year. Like other nurses, they must be registered in their state and pass the required national examinations. Nurse Practitioners help coordinate patient care and provide primary and specialty healthcare services to patients.
This occupation is projected to grow by 45% through the year 2029, mainly due to the increased need to care for aging populations.
#1 - Wind Turbine Service Technicians
A Wind Turbine Service Technician is someone who installs, maintains and repairs wind turbines, and it’s the #1 fastest growing occupation in America.
The median annual wage is $56,230. And wind turbine service technicians typically learn their trade at a 2-year technical school then complete on the job training.
Wind energy is forecasted to increase in the next decade and thus, is projected to grow 61% through 2029. It’s not for everyone though; being a wind turbine service technician requires you to work in confined spaces at great heights.
Summary
If you are looking for a middle class job with a lot of future growth potential the healthcare and alternative energy fields have a lot of potential. And higher education isn't even required for several of the jobs on this list.
