Top 15 Jobs That Let You Earn More and Stress Less in 2025
Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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Eva Chan, career expert at Resume Genius, said stress has become more than a personal challenge — it’s now an economic issue that could affect your money.
“Burnout costs businesses billions annually in turnover, lost productivity and health expenses,” she said. “Also, the link between chronic job strain and serious health problems is undeniable as studies now show a 97% increased risk of developing heart conditions for employees in high-stress roles.”
According to Resume Genius’ 2025 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs report, here are the top jobs that will allow you to earn more with less stress.
Water Resource Specialist
- Median annual salary: $157,740
- Number of jobs: 100,100
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 8%
- Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Astronomer
- Median annual salary: $149,530
- Number of jobs: 23,500
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 7%
- Required education: Doctoral or professional degree
Actuary
- Median annual salary: $120,000
- Number of jobs: 30,200
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 23%
- Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Environmental Economist
- Median annual salary: $115,730
- Number of jobs: 17,500
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 5%
- Required education: Master’s degree
Mathematician
- Median annual salary: $104,860
- Number of jobs: 34,800
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 11%
- Required education: Master’s degree
Computer Systems Analyst
- Median annual salary: $103,800
- Number of jobs: 527,200
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 11%
- Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Fuel Cell Engineer
- Median annual salary: $99,510
- Number of jobs: 291,900
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 11%
- Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Remote Sensing Scientist and Technologist
- Median annual salary: $92,580
- Number of jobs: 26,000
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 5%
- Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Geographer
- Median annual salary: $90,880
- Number of jobs: 1,600
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 3%
- Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Transportation Planner
- Median annual salary: $81,800
- Number of jobs: 45,200
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 4%
- Required education: Master’s degree
Rail Car Repairer
- Median annual salary: $61,000
- Number of jobs: 22,600
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 9%
- Required education: High school diploma or equivalent
Taper (Drywall Finisher)
- Median annual salary: $57,010
- Number of jobs: 136,600
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 3%
- Required education: No formal educational credential
Pump Operator
- Median annual salary: $54,690
- Number of jobs: 11,700
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 5%
- Required education: High school diploma or equivalent
Tire Builder
- Median annual salary: $54,080
- Number of jobs: 20,700
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 3%
- Required education: High school diploma or equivalent
Craft Artist
- Median annual salary: $52,910
- Number of jobs: 54,000
- Estimated job growth through 2033: 3%
- Required education: No formal educational credential
How To Land These Types of Jobs
“In 2025, smart job seekers recognize that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of their well-being,” Chan added. “The world is full of opportunities to do work that matters, earn what you’re worth and enjoy your life in the process.”
She shared the below strategies to help find a career that offers financial reward and meaningful work without the stress of burnout.
Identify Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs
Chan advised job seekers to focus on companies that prioritize mental health. “Look for employers offering remote or hybrid options, wellness programs and flexible schedules,” she said, adding that these benefits often indicate a culture where employees can thrive.
She recommended researching a company’s culture by reading reviews or speaking with current employees before applying. During interviews, she suggested asking questions like, “What steps does the company take to prevent burnout among its team members?”
Apply Within Thriving Industries: Sustainability and Clean Energy
Chan explained that careers in sustainability and clean energy — such as water resource specialists — are rapidly expanding due to global concerns about climate change. She encouraged job seekers to explore opportunities in renewable energy, environmental consulting and government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or state water management departments. Chan said these roles are often advertised on platforms like LinkedIn, GreenJobs and local government websites.
Tap Into the Value of Skills and Certifications
For roles in industries like risk management, data analysis or green technology, Chan explained that the right skills can lead to lucrative and low-stress careers. “For example, actuaries can earn a median salary of $120,000 while enjoying low-pressure work environments where their expertise in financial risk is highly valued,” she said.
Chan also noted that certifications and online courses have become more accessible than ever. She recommended options like Google Data Analytics or sustainability-focused programs to help job seekers build qualifications for high-demand roles.
Stand Out in Competitive Fields
Chan emphasized the importance of relevant skills and networking for job seekers targeting industries like environmental science and water management. She advised pursuing degrees in environmental science, engineering or hydrology, as well as certifications in water management or climate resilience, such as those offered by the International Water Association.
“Networking is also important,” she said and recommended industry conferences like those hosted by the American Water Resources Association as opportunities to connect with professionals and learn about emerging roles.
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