Jobs that pay $50 per hour aren’t always easy to come by. However, with inflation still over 3%, you need a solid wage just to keep up these days. Some people might think $50 an hour is a lot, but it isn’t as much as they might think.
For instance, suppose you work 40 hours per week, making $50 per hour.
If you work that job full-time and don’t take any days off, you would make:
$50 * 40 * 52 = $104,000
Yes, if you make $50 per hour for the entire year, you would just barely clear $100k. And with costs rising fast, $100k is more like a living wage these days than one that leads to a life of luxury.
That’s why jobs that pay $50 per hour are something more people have their eyes set on recently. This post will cover jobs that pay $50 per hour (or more) to help you keep up.
Jobs that Pay $50 Per Hour (or More)
If you want to keep up with rising costs, looking for jobs that pay $50 an hour (or even more) isn’t as unreasonable as it might sound at first.
This is especially true if your job doesn’t include health insurance, which can be extremely expensive to purchase on your own.
If you don’t want to fall behind, try one of these jobs, which can help you pay the bills without falling behind.
1. Software Developer
A software developer develops and maintains software applications. As a software developer, you will likely need knowledge of various programming languages and software development methods.
In addition, you may need to meet with a client who needs software developed. Then, you will build, test, and deploy the software based on the client’s needs. While these may not be as easy as jobs that pay cash daily, it can be well worth it for the salary.
Here, we have just mentioned the general responsibilities of a software developer. Chances are, you will deal with many different circumstances and must be highly adaptable to succeed in this role.
2. Electrical Engineer
An electrical engineer designs, develops, and tests electrical equipment. These can include electric motors, radar and navigation systems, communication systems, or power generation equipment.
3. Nurse Practitioner
A nurse practitioner (NP) provides advanced nursing care in specialized fields. For example, they might provide care in diagnostics, prescriptions, and treatment plans.
Often, NPs have a focus on patient education and preventive care. In other words, their goal is to keep patients out of the hospital rather than just treat their conditions.
Keep in mind that NPs need a master’s degree, so this is not a job you can easily jump into. But if it’s something that interests you, it’s possible to make quite a bit of money with this job.
4. Dental Hygienist
If you’ve ever been to the dentist, you know a hygienist is the one who sees you before the dentist. Hygienists examine patients for signs of oral diseases, perform cleanings, and provide other preventative care.
Other things dental hygienists do include reviewing dental histories, screening patients, taking X-rays, and teaching patients good dental hygiene.
Like most jobs, there are many responsibilities that go with this one that you may not consider at first. Still, this can be a great way to make money.
5. Physician Assistant
Like a nurse practitioner, a physician assistant (PA) is a licensed medical professional holding an advanced degree. PAs work directly with patients in almost any medical setting, diagnosing common illnesses and conducting minor medical procedures.
As the name suggests, PAs work under a physician’s supervision to treat patients, conduct exams, interpret tests, and prescribe medications.
Again, PAs need advanced degrees and must go through the proper licensing. Still, this career can provide a great payoff in the long term.
6. Mechanical Engineer
A mechanical engineer generally works with mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines. They also design machines that produce power, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and gas turbines.
In addition, mechanical engineers design machines that use power, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
As you can see, mechanical engineers might perform a wide variety of responsibilities. If you are interested in a mechanical engineering career, you may want to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. This will give you the preparation and qualification you need to start your career.
7. Project Manager
Project managers lead and coordinate all aspects of projects, seeing the project through from planning to execution. As a result, they oversee project planning and procurement.
In addition, project managers must ensure the project meets all specifications and deadlines. They oversee project scope and ensure everyone on the team handles their individual responsibilities.
While an advanced degree is not necessarily required for this position, it can certainly help to have the proper training and education.
8. IT Consultant
IT consultants help businesses and organizations implement and manage their technological solutions. This might involve assisting with the planning and design of IT systems.
In addition, IT consultants might be involved in assessing the business’s computer systems, hardware and software performance, cybersecurity, and data and analytics.
IT consultants work with a wide variety of organizations and might be involved in many different kinds of projects. However, these professionals are often paid significant rates for their expertise.
9. Financial Analyst
In this profession, you typically evaluate businesses, projects, budgets, and other financial elements to determine their performance and suitability. They might also estimate future revenues and expenses.
This job can be done remotely, making it a potentially great work-from-home job.
Financial analysts usually work at banks, pension funds, insurance companies, and other organizations that need financial assessment.
You will need a wide range of skills as a financial analyst, including account skills, technical skills, and leadership skills. It’s best to pursue a finance-related degree if you are interested in a career as a financial analyst.
10. Marketing Manager
Marketing managers plan, direct, and coordinate marketing efforts for businesses and organizations. They often focus on market research, product development, and marketing strategies.
Ultimately, the marketing manager’s responsibility is to get customers interested in an organization’s products or services and to generate more business.
To do this, they might use various mediums, such as social media, TV and radio commercials, and internet display ads. Which avenues they use depends on the organization.
As usual, you should pursue a degree in marketing if you are interested in a career as a marketing manager.
11. Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze and interpret complex digital data, such as the usage statistics of a website, to assist in business decision-making. They use machine learning to categorize data or make predictions.
Because so many industries are increasingly relying on data, you can find data scientists across the economy today. This includes retail, telecommunications, healthcare, and agriculture.
Being a data scientist is all about helping businesses make better decisions. If that’s of interest to you, consider pursuing a degree and career as a data scientist.
12. Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists help patients develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Often, this is necessary after a patient experiences an injury or illness.
People who need the assistance of an occupational therapist might have physical, sensory, or cognitive problems. The occupational therapist might help them develop a customized plan to improve their ability to perform their daily responsibilities.
You can find occupational therapists in many settings, such as schools, hospitals, and senior care facilities.
13. Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. If you’ve ever had a speech impediment like a stutter, you may have gotten help from a speech-language pathologist.
However, these professionals don’t just help with speech problems. They might also help with communication and socialization issues or fluency. Essentially, it’s about helping people verbally communicate more effectively.
If this sounds interesting to you, consider a degree in a healthcare field. Some speech-language pathologists may have master’s degrees.
14. Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers specialize in the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft. This might include airplanes, fighter jets, satellites, and rockets.
They apply the principles of aerodynamics, avionics, propulsion, and materials science to test prototypes and ensure their safety and efficiency.
Often, aerospace engineers extensively collaborate with others and must stay ahead of technological advancements in aerospace technology and materials.
If this sounds interesting to you, consider pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering.
15. Pharmacist
Pharmacists are responsible for dispensing prescription medications to patients as well as offering their expertise in the safe use of prescriptions. You will often find pharmacists at pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS.
In addition to dispensing prescriptions, pharmacists also provide advice on health issues, such as managing chronic diseases and offering wellness screenings. To perform their roles successfully, pharmacists must understand drug composition, chemical properties, and how medications interact in the body.
If a job as a pharmacist interests you, pursue a degree in pharmacy. Note that pharmacists need doctorates and must be licensed.
16. Sales Manager
Sales managers lead and guide sales teams to meet or exceed their sales targets. They might develop sales strategies, analyze sales data, and make sales projections.
Responsibilities for sales managers include training sales staff, setting sales quotas, managing customer accounts, and staying informed about products and market trends.
Those interested in a career as a sales manager should pursue business degrees, such as those in law, management, and economics.
17. Human Resources Manager
If you enjoy working with people, you might consider a career as a human resources manager. In this role, you will oversee the administrative functions of a business or organization.
This might include recruiting, hiring, and interviewing new staff. You might also work with management and top executives on strategic planning.
Another important part of being a human resources manager is to serve as a liaison between management and employees. Finally, you might oversee employee benefit programs.
This is a challenging yet rewarding job. If interested, consider a degree in fields like business, communication, or psychology.
18. Industrial Engineer
Industrial engineers create efficient systems that bring together workers, machines, materials, information, and energy. In doing so, they build efficient products and services.
In addition, these professionals aim to increase productivity by managing people, methods of business organization, and technology.
Those who want to become industrial engineers should pursue degrees in industrial engineering or related fields.
19. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists provide care to people with mobility issues generally resulting from neck and back injuries, sprains, strains, fractures, arthritis, and neurological disorders.
The goal of physical therapists is to help people restore some of the mobility they have lost. In addition, they aim to reduce pain and limit or prevent permanent physical disabilities.
If you want to become a physical therapist, consider going for a degree in physical therapy. As a medical profession, there may be licensing requirements as well.
20. Chemical Engineer
As a chemical engineer, you apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems. These problems might involve the production or use of chemicals, fuel, food, drugs, or other products.
In addition, chemical engineers design processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing, plan and test production methods, and treat byproducts.
If you want to pursue a career as a chemical engineer, consider a degree in chemical engineering or a related field.
21. Attorney
Attorneys represent and advise individuals, businesses, and government agencies on legal issues and disputes. In addition, they interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and businesses.
As an attorney, you will need to prepare and file legal documents, such as lawsuits, appeals, wills, contracts, and deeds.
A career as an attorney can be quite challenging but financially rewarding. If interested, you will need to study in a law program and complete the necessary training, testing, and other requirements.
22. Management Consultant
Management consultants help businesses and organizations solve issues, create value, maximize growth, and improve business performance.
They use their business skills to provide objective advice and expertise and help an organization develop specialized skills it may be lacking.
If you are interested in becoming a management consultant, you’ll need a degree in business, economics, statistics, or a related field.
23. Architect
Architects plan and design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures. They often work closely with construction teams to ensure project designs match the appropriate needs and are safe, functional, and economical.
In addition, architects must ensure the end result of the project is attractive and achieves the desired goal.
Those who want to become architects should pursue relevant degrees, such as B. Arch or M. Arch.
24. Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots fly and navigate airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft. They might be involved in more specialized tasks, like aerial firefighting, rescue operations, or aerial photography.
These professionals fly for many purposes, such as charter flights and rescue operations. This is different from airline pilots, who transport people and cargo on a fixed schedule.
Those who want to become commercial pilots can pursue bachelor’s degrees in relevant fields, such as transportation, engineering, or business.
25. Veterinarian
Veterinarians research, diagnose, and treat medical conditions of pets, livestock, and other animals. They perform surgery, prescribe medications, and advise pet owners on general care and medical conditions of animals.
These professionals may work for large agricultural companies or government agencies or work for smaller practices.
If you want to become a veterinarian, you’ll need a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM or VMD). In addition, licensing requirements may apply.
26. Construction Manager
Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish. They may have a home office but tend to spend most of their time onsite monitoring projects and making decisions.
These professionals work closely with architects and engineers, some subcontractors, and oversee workers.
In addition, construction managers ensure projects are finished on time and within budget. They also take steps to meet building safety codes.
If interested in becoming a construction manager, consider a bachelor’s degree in an engineering program.
27. Accountant (CPA)
Certified public accountants (CPAs) prepare and examine financial records, offer financial advice, and provide trustworthy information about financial records.
In addition, CPAs prepare tax returns, conduct audits, and advise their clients on financial strategies.
CPAs are licensed by their state’s board of accountancy and must pass a national exam. If you want to become a CPA, start by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting. In many cases, you must also complete a minimum of 150 credit hours.
28. Web Developer
Web developers create, design, and maintain websites. They are responsible for the look and feel of a website and its technical elements.
For instance, as a web developer, it’s your job to optimize website performance, capacity, and reliability. You might also need to assess site speed and how much traffic a site can handle.
Web developers should consider degrees in computer science, web development, or related fields.
29. UX/UI Designer
UI and UX designers are responsible for creating compelling and functional user interfaces for websites and applications. They focus on optimizing the user experience by creating designs that are efficient, accessible, and enjoyable to use.
To improve the user experience, UI/UX designers might conduct user research to learn about users and their behavior, motivation, and needs. In addition, they might create user personas by identifying important user groups. Then, they might create personas that represent those users’ behavior and demographics.
Ultimately, being a UI/UX designer is about understanding the user and what makes them tick. If interested, consider a degree in computer science or computer engineering.
30. Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity specialists protect systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. Generally, cybersecurity attacks are aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information.
In addition, cybersecurity attackers might aim to steal money or interrupt daily business operations. It’s your job as a cybersecurity specialist to keep those attackers out.
If you want to become a cybersecurity specialist, consider a bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in cybersecurity.
31. Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents assist clients in buying, selling, and renting properties. They advise clients on market conditions, conduct walkthroughs, and provide guidance and assistance during the process of buying, selling, or leasing properties.
Successful real estate agents typically have skills in negotiation and can perform market research. In addition, they have a deep understanding of both the local real estate market and local property laws and regulations.
While a degree is not necessarily required for this job, there are typically licensing requirements you must complete. However, the exact requirements vary by state.
32. Quality Assurance Engineer
Quality assurance (QA) engineers oversee the quality of software and systems. They conduct automated and manual tests to ensure the software developers create is fit for its intended purpose.
QA engineers’ roles include installing databases, detecting bugs, and collaborating with developers to resolve any issues. Ultimately, this role is about testing everything and ensuring it works as expected.
Those interested in becoming QA engineers should consider degrees in computer science, software engineering, or related fields.
33. Network Engineer
Network engineers design, implement, manage, and maintain computer networks. This might include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
The role of network engineers is essential for ensuring data communication systems are fast, secure, and reliable.
If you are interested in becoming a computer engineer, consider a degree in network engineering, information systems, IT, or computer engineering.
34. Business Intelligence Analyst
Business intelligence analysts use data to help organizations make better business decisions. They analyze datasets to understand trends and insights.
In addition, they create reports and present their findings to executives. Often, they use tools like SQL, Tableau, or other analytics software to aid in their analysis.
If you want to become a business intelligence analyst, consider a degree in computer science, mathematics, business, economics, or a related field.
35. SEO/SEM Specialist
SEO/SEM specialists focus on optimizing websites for search engines. If you’ve ever visited a large website, you’ve probably seen their work in action, perhaps even without realizing it.
Search engine optimization (SEO) involves improving organic search results, while search engine marketing (SEM) involves strategies like pay-per-click advertising.
SEO and SEM specialists should have a good understanding of search engine algorithms, keyword research, and website analytics.
If interested in this field, consider pursuing a degree in business, marketing, computing, or related fields.
36. Product Manager
Product managers oversee the development and management of a product. This might include setting strategies, roadmaps, and feature definitions for a product or product line.
Product managers work closely with engineering, sales, marketing, and other teams to ensure successful product releases and market adoption. In addition, they lead multi-faceted initiatives and manage tasks, tools, and relationships throughout the development of products.
Those interested in becoming product managers should pursue degrees in business management, supply chain and operations management, or related fields.f
37. Senior Level Graphic Designer
Senior-level graphic designers create visual concepts to communicate ideas that transform, inspire, or captivate consumers.
They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications. These might include ads, brochures, magazines, or corporate reports.
While you may need to be in a senior-level position to make $50 per hour as a graphic designer, it can be worthwhile for the right candidate.
If interested, consider a degree in graphic design or a related field.
38. Operations Manager
Operations managers are responsible for managing the daily operations of a company. They oversee production and quality control and ensure all operations are running smoothly and efficiently.
Operations managers play an essential role in the strategic planning and resource allocation of businesses.
Those interested in becoming operations managers should pursue at least a bachelor’s degree in fields like business management, business administration, or other related fields.
39. Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with medical and biological sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software used in healthcare.
These professionals work on many products, including artificial internal organs, healthcare software, and medical imaging devices.
Those interested in becoming biomedical engineers should consider a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, or related engineering fields.
40. Actuary
Actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty. They use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess the risk of potential events.
In doing so, actuaries help clients develop policies that minimize the cost of risk. Actuaries typically work in the insurance industry, helping insurance companies design policies and determine premiums.
If interested in becoming an actuary, consider a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, or other related statistical field.
41. Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems. They work to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control.
In addition, they prepare, review, update, and present reports on issues related to the environment.
If you want to be an environmental engineer, consider a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering.
42. Film/Video Editor
Film and video editors play an important role in the post-production process. They are responsible for editing and assembling recorded raw material into a suitable, finished product that is ready for broadcasting.
The material with which film and video editors typically work includes camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics, and special effects.
Those interested in being film and video editors should consider a bachelor’s degree in film, broadcasting, or a related fine and performing arts or communications field.
43. Civil Engineer
Civil engineers conceive, design, build, supervise, operate, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sectors.
These projects might include roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and systems for water supply and sewage treatment.
If you’d like to become a civil engineer, consider a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.
44. Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists treat cancer and other diseases in patients with radiation treatments. They generally work with oncologists and follow their prescriptions to administer the correct dosages.
Radiation therapists monitor patients’ reactions to treatments and maintain detailed records of their treatments. In addition, they perform duties like maintaining radiation safety standards and preparing sterilizing radiation therapy rooms.
Those interested in becoming a radiation therapist should consider a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in radiation therapy.
45. Geologist
Geologists study the earth’s processes, material composition, and history. They may work in resource extraction, environmental protection, conservation, or as researchers.
As you can see, geologists can work in many different and varied sectors.
Geologists often conduct fieldwork, collect samples and data, and analyze geological data in laboratories.
If you want to become a geologist, consider a bachelor’s degree in geology. However, keep in mind that some upper-level positions in this field require graduate degrees.
46. Forensic Accountant
Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes, including embezzlement, fraud, and other illegal financial activities. They analyze financial data to detect irregularities and illegal activities and prepare legal reports.
In some cases, forensic accountants may testify in court. After all, this position is all about catching and prosecuting the bad guys.
Those interested in becoming a forensic accountant should pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting, forensic accounting, finance, or a related field.
47. Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear engineers research and develop the processes, instruments, and systems used to harness the benefits of nuclear energy and radiation. This might include designing nuclear equipment, such as reactor cores and radiation shielding, or directing nuclear power plant operations.
In addition, nuclear engineers research new uses and management of nuclear power or material. Many nuclear engineers work for power companies that use nuclear power plants or help maintain and service these plants.
Those who want to become nuclear engineers should consider a bachelor’s degree in engineering, engineering technologies, or a physical science field.
48. Art Director
Art directors are responsible for the visual style and images in newspapers, magazines, product packaging, and movie and television products. They create the overall design and direct others who develop artwork or layouts.
In addition, art directors determine which photographs, art, or other design elements to use in productions.
Those who want to be art directors need at least a bachelor’s degree in an art or design subject, as well as previous work experience.
49. Health Services Manager
Health services managers, also known as healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. In addition, they set and carry out policies, goals, and procedures of departments or facilities.
Some responsibilities of health services managers include hiring, scheduling, and evaluating staff. They also monitor compliance with state and federal guidelines.
Those who want to be health services managers need a bachelor’s degree in public health or health administration. In some cases, advanced degrees may be necessary.
50. Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical research coordinators (CRCs) are responsible for managing the daily operations of clinical trials. These trials are essential for testing new drugs, medical devices, or treatment methods.
CRCs are also responsible for participant management, data management, regulatory compliance, and administrative duties. These duties might include scheduling appointments, organizing meetings, and managing the study budget.
Those interested in a career as a CRC should pursue a bachelor’s degree in public health, life sciences, nursing, or another related field.
Is $50 an Hour Good?
With a job that pays $50 an hour, you’ll be making a little over $100,000 per year. Whether that is a good salary is highly dependent on where you live.
For instance, in a city like Wichita, Kansas, where the median household income is $53,466, you’ll likely do quite well making $50 an hour.
But compare that to Los Altos, California, where the median income is $208,309. In that city, you may find that $50 an hour doesn’t get you as far.
This is why where you live can be a very important part of wealth generation. If you live in an expensive city, you’ll need much more money to do well.
Bottom Line
Jobs that pay $50 an hour aren’t always easy to find, and they often require advanced degrees and years of training. These jobs often include those in sales and marketing, programming and engineering, or management.
While this means they may not be easily accessible to everyone, it can be well worth it.
However, whether $50 an hour is enough also highly depends on where you live. In some cities, $50 an hour will be more than enough, while in others, you might be living paycheck to paycheck.
Still, these jobs can be a great starting point to help you start earning more. Consider these jobs if you want to earn a great income.
