35 Fun Jobs That Pay Well (Salaries + Getting Started)

Updated on: Oct 10, 2024
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Pursuing a job that you love and getting paid for you doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of well-paying, enjoyable careers that cater to diverse interests and talents. Whether you’re drawn to animals, technology, or the great outdoors, one of your dream jobs is out there waiting to be discovered.

Pursue Opportunities According To Your Rich Life

One of the most common misconceptions that I see is having to choose between being happy or being rich, never both. That’s absolutely not the case,. 

Money is a tool that you can use to design your Rich Life, which might include things like picking up your kids from school, being able to buy expensive clothes, or going on amazing holidays. 

So, before diving deep into a job hunt, figure out what you want your Rich Life to look like, and pursue career opportunities that can best support it.

If You Love Working With People:

This section is perfect for extroverts, natural communicators, and those who thrive on social interaction. These jobs allow you to meet new people, create memorable experiences, and utilize your interpersonal skills daily. If you’re someone who can’t stop chatting, then these are the jobs for you.

1. Event planner

When you’re socializing, do you find you’re often the one who does the organizing? Do you enjoy taking control when it comes to the logistics? As an event planner you can translate this into your career, and get paid for your organizational skills.

  • Average Salary: $50,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Coordinate and organize various events, from weddings to corporate conferences. You’ll manage budgets, negotiate with vendors, and ensure every detail is perfect.
  • Benefits: Bring joy to people’s lives by creating unforgettable moments and magical atmospheres.
  • Skills needed: Excellent organization, communication, problem-solving, and multitasking abilities.
  • Job-specific tips: Gain experience by planning events for friends or local organizations. Consider getting certified by organizations like the Events Industry Council.

2. Tour guide

As a tour guide, you’ll be in charge of delivering information in a fun and engaging way for large groups of people. If you’re particularly passionate about showing tourists the best sights and sounds of your country, this might be the job for you!

  • Average Salary: $30,000 – $60,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Lead groups through historical sites, museums, or outdoor adventures, providing informative and engaging commentary.
  • Benefits: Share your passion for history and culture while exploring exciting destinations every day.
  • Skills needed: Public speaking, storytelling, knowledge of local history and culture, and the ability to manage groups.
  • Job-specific tips: Start by volunteering at local museums or historical sites. Learn multiple languages to increase your marketability.

3. Cruise director

As long as you don’t get seasick, becoming a cruise director is a great job if you like working with people. You’ll mingle with guests all day on the ship and get to plan fun events making sure everyone on board has a good time. Not to mention, your office will be a luxury cruise liner where you’ll get to wake up to a different scenery every day.

  • Average Salary: $65,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Oversee entertainment and activities on cruise ships, ensuring passengers have an enjoyable experience.
  • Benefits: Live on a floating resort, organize fun activities and mingling with guests from around the world.
  • Skills needed: Leadership, creativity, event planning, and the ability to work long hours in a fast-paced environment.
  • Job-specific tips: Start in entry-level positions on cruise ships to gain experience. Develop a diverse skill set in entertainment and hospitality.

4. Flight attendant

Take to the skies, see the world, and get paid for doing it: it’s no wonder being a flight attendant is one of the most sought after careers. If you enjoy working with people and want to travel to many destinations, this might be the career for you.

  • Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Ensure passenger comfort and safety on flights while enjoying travel benefits.
  • Benefits: Travel the globe, experience different cultures, and meet new people on every flight.
  • Skills needed: Customer service, safety and emergency procedures, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Job-specific tips: Meet physical requirements and be willing to relocate. Learn multiple languages to stand out in applications.

If You Love Animals:

Animal lovers with a passion for biology, conservation, or veterinary science will find these careers rewarding. These jobs allow you to work closely with animals, contribute to their well-being, and often involve a mix of hands-on care and scientific research.

5. Veterinarian

Nursing sick animals back to health is one of the most rewarding jobs out there, and it’s also paid rewardingly. When you’re looking to combine passion with a paycheck, becoming a vet is one of the best options available. 

  • Average Salary: $100,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Provide medical care for animals in clinics, hospitals, or zoos. Diagnose illnesses, perform surgeries, and educate pet owners.
  • Benefits: Spend your days caring for and healing a variety of adorable animals.
  • Skills needed: Strong scientific knowledge, surgical skills, empathy, and communication abilities.
  • Job-specific tips: Volunteer at animal shelters or veterinary clinics. Prepare for a competitive veterinary school admission process.

6. Marine biologist

The ocean is fascinating, and something we’re still learning more about as scientific research progresses. As a marine biologist, you’ll get to be at the cutting edge of new discoveries we are yet to find. This will be a great career for you if you love studying about marine wildlife and want to contribute to future scientific breakthroughs. 

  • Average Salary: $65,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Study marine organisms and their ecosystems. Conduct research, collect and analyze data, and contribute to conservation efforts.
  • Benefits: Dive into the mysteries of the ocean and interact with fascinating sea creatures.
  • Skills needed: Scientific research methods, data analysis, scuba diving, and often programming for data modeling.
  • Job-specific tips: Gain field experience through internships or research assistant positions. Develop strong writing skills for grant proposals and research papers.

7. Zoologist

The role of a zoologist is crucial in understanding and protecting wildlife. As a zoologist, you could contribute to ongoing research and conservation efforts for various species. This field also offers opportunities to specialize, allowing you to focus your passion on specific animals or ecosystems.

  • Average Salary: $66,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Research animal behavior and biology in natural habitats or controlled environments. Contribute to conservation efforts and wildlife management.
  • Benefits: Observe and study wild animals in their natural habitats, contributing to their conservation.
  • Skills needed: Scientific research methods, data analysis, animal handling, and often specialized knowledge of particular species.
  • Job-specific tips: Participate in field studies during your education. Develop expertise in a specific area of zoology, such as ornithology or mammalogy.

8. Dog walker/pet sitter

Working as a pet sitter is ideal for animal lovers who want to turn their passion into a profession. This career allows you to care for other people’s beloved pets, essentially extending the joy you get from your own pets at home into your work life.

  • Average Salary: $30,000 – $50,000 per year (varies widely based on location and clientele)
  • What you’d do: Care for pets while their owners are away or at work. This includes walking dogs, feeding pets, and providing companionship.
  • Benefits: Get paid to play with cute pets and enjoy outdoor walks every day.
  • Skills needed: Animal handling, reliability, physical fitness, and basic pet first aid knowledge.
  • Job-specific tips: Start by offering services to friends and family to build references. Consider getting certified in pet first aid and CPR.

If You Love Food & Drinks:

For food lovers, and those with discerning tastes, the culinary world offers a range of enticing careers. These jobs open doors to explore gastronomy, craft culinary masterpieces, and share your passion for food and drink. Whether you’re creating, tasting, or teaching, these roles allow you to turn your love for cuisine into a fulfilling profession.

9. Food critic

For those passionate about food, a career as a food critic offers a tantalizing opportunity. This role allows you to savor exceptional cuisine and interact with renowned chefs worldwide. Beyond just enjoying meals, you’ll play a crucial part in shaping public opinion and expanding culinary knowledge.

  • Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Evaluate and review restaurants and their offerings. Write engaging and informative reviews for publications or online platforms.
  • Indulge in gourmet meals at top restaurants and share your opinions with the world.
  • Skills needed: Refined palate, excellent writing skills, objectivity, and broad culinary knowledge.
  • Job-specific tips: Start a food blog to build your portfolio. Network with people in the food industry and local publications.

10. Sommelier

As a sommelier, you’ll be helping people enjoy the perfect wine pairing with their food. It’s a rich and rewarding job for anyone with a passion for trying different wines, and it’ll take you to some of the top restaurants around the world, as well as the opportunity to visit renowned vineyards. 

  • Average Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Specialize in wine selection and pairings in high-end restaurants. Advise customers on wine choices and manage wine inventories.
  • Benefits: Taste exquisite wines from around the globe and share your passion with wine enthusiasts.
  • Skills needed: Extensive wine knowledge, refined palate, customer service skills, and often knowledge of viticulture and wine-making processes.
  • Job-specific tips: Pursue certification from recognized bodies like the Court of Master Sommeliers. Gain experience in fine dining restaurants.

11. Brewmaster

In this role, you’ll oversee the entire beer-making process, from developing innovative recipes to ensuring quality across all brewery operations. This position allows you to channel your love for craft beer into a business setting, combining creativity with technical expertise. As a brewmaster, you’ll have the opportunity to shape flavors, drive innovation, and contribute to the thriving craft beer industry.

  • Average Salary: $55,000 – $80,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Oversee the beer-making process in breweries. Develop new recipes, ensure quality control, and manage production.
  • Benefits: Craft unique beer flavors and be at the forefront of the exciting craft brewing scene.
  • Skills needed: Knowledge of brewing science, creativity for recipe development, and often business management skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Start with home brewing to develop your skills. Consider formal education in brewing science or apprenticeships at established breweries.

If You Love Software & Technology:

Tech enthusiasts, problem solvers, and those fascinated by the digital world will thrive in these careers. These jobs combine creativity with technical skills, allowing you to shape the future of technology while earning competitive salaries.

12. Ethical hacker

In the modern world, digital security breaches are more common than ever, and peoples’ personal data is at constant risk. This exciting career involves protecting sensitive data and collaborating with major companies worldwide. Given the importance of digital security, ethical hackers are usually well-compensated.

  • Average Salary: $100,000 – $130,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Test and improve security systems by attempting to breach them. Identify vulnerabilities and recommend solutions.
  • Benefits: Play the role of a “good guy” hacker, outsmarting cybercriminals and protecting sensitive information.
  • Skills needed: Advanced programming skills, understanding of network security, problem-solving abilities, and ethical judgment.
  • Job-specific tips: Obtain relevant certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). Stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and solutions.

13. Data scientist

Do you love digging into a spreadsheet, crunching the numbers, and analyzing data? As a data scientist that’s what you’ll be doing, helping to solve problems and support in business decisions through your statistical skills. You’ll get to work on some of the biggest problems facing businesses, all while developing your programming skills and being well-paid.

  • Average Salary: $100,000 – $150,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Analyze complex digital data to help guide business decisions. Develop predictive models and machine learning algorithms.
  • Benefits: Uncover hidden patterns and insights in vast amounts of data, solving real-world puzzles.
  • Skills needed: Strong mathematical and statistical skills, programming abilities (particularly in Python or R), and data visualization skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Participate in data science competitions on platforms like Kaggle. Develop a strong portfolio of data projects.

14. UX designer

As a UX Designer, you’ll be working on improvements on websites and applications, making sure things run smoothly for users and keeping them from getting frustrated. It’s a unique chance to combine software design with human psychology, as you’ll be trying to understand how people interact with technology. The best UX Designers also earn in excess of $100,000 per year. 

  • Average Salary: $85,000 – $130,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Design user experiences for websites and applications. Conduct user research and create intuitive, efficient interfaces.
  • Benefits: Shape how people interact with technology, making their digital experiences more enjoyable.
  • Skills needed: Understanding of user psychology, prototyping skills, knowledge of design software, and ability to analyze user data.
  • Job-specific tips: Create case studies of your design process. Stay updated on the latest UX trends and best practices.

15. Drone pilot

Still an emerging technology, drones are becoming more commonplace, as they can assist in all sorts of industries and fields. For instance, you might be working in archaeological inspections, supporting public security, or as part of search and rescue missions. Becoming a drone pilot gives you a chance to work with the latest equipment available in the aviation space, and given there are relatively few pilots currently, the starting pay can be lucrative. 

  • Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Operate drones for various purposes, including photography, surveying, and inspections.
  • Benefits: Fly high-tech gadgets and capture breathtaking aerial footage of landscapes and events.
  • Skills needed: Hand-eye coordination, understanding of aviation regulations, photography skills, and often industry-specific knowledge.
  • Job-specific tips: Obtain necessary certifications like the FAA Part 107 license. Specialize in a particular industry like real estate or filmmaking.

16. Video game designer

When the weekend comes around, do you love firing up a games console and playing the hours away? By becoming a videogame designer you can combine your hobby and your career. It’ll give you the chance to shape your favorite games, all while developing your programming skills and working as part of a passionate team. You’ll also get the chance to attend amazing conventions around the globe, networking with other developers and video game fans. 

  • Average Salary: $75,000 – $120,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Design core features of video games, including storylines, character biographies, and gameplay mechanics.
  • Skills needed: Creativity, programming skills, understanding of game engines, and collaborative abilities.
  • Job-specific tips: Create mods for existing games to showcase your skills. Attend game jams to network and build your portfolio.

17. Animator

In the twenty-first century, animation is more prevalent than ever, forming a key part of modern media. If you look at the most recent animated blockbusters you can see just how far the technology has developed, and it’s an incredibly exciting field. Given the high demand, animators are paid really well, and it’s a great career path for any creative. 

  • Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Create animation and visual effects for TV, movies, video games, and other media.
  • Skills needed: Artistic ability, proficiency in animation software, understanding of movement and timing, and often 3D modeling skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Create a demo reel showcasing your best work. Specialize in a particular style or medium of animation.

If You Love Sports & Fitness:

This section is perfect for those who are passionate about physical activity, health, and helping others achieve their fitness goals. These careers allow you to stay active, promote wellness, and often enjoy flexible work environments.

18. Personal trainer

I’ve worked with personal trainers before, and seen firsthand the transformative effects they have. Without my trainer I’d have never put on the muscle I wanted and gotten the confidence that came with it. If you’re someone who’s passionate about their fitness, and loves helping people to achieve their goals, becoming a personal trainer might be for you. 

  • Average Salary: $40,000 – $70,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Help clients achieve their fitness goals through personalized workout plans and nutrition advice. Guide them through exercises and provide motivation.
  • Benefits: Help people transform their lives while staying fit and active yourself.
  • Skills needed: Knowledge of exercise science, nutrition, and anatomy; excellent communication and motivational skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Get certified by a recognized organization like NASM or ACE. Develop a specialty, such as weight loss or sports performance.

19. Sports psychologist

When you watch sports games, do you wonder what makes the athletes tick? Why one week they’re on top of the world, and the next struggling with the basics? It’s a fascinating subject area, and one that we still don’t fully understand. You’ll be at the forefront of this field as a sports psychologist, helping to develop new research techniques, and working with the top athletes around the world. 

  • Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Work with athletes to improve their mental approach to their sport. Help them overcome performance anxiety, improve focus, and develop mental toughness.
  • Benefits: Work with top athletes and help them achieve peak mental performance.
  • Skills needed: Strong understanding of psychology and sports science; excellent listening and counseling skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Gain experience working with sports teams at various levels. Publish research in sports psychology journals to build credibility.

20. Professional athlete

You’ll need to start young for this one, but if you’re a talented athlete, you could become a global superstar and millionaire. Turning a passion for sports into a career isn’t easy, but you’ll reap serious rewards if you hit the highest levels. It’s one of the highest paying careers possible, and you’d also get to travel the world playing the sport that you love. 

  • Average Salary: Varies widely (can be millions for top athletes)
  • What you’d do: Compete in professional sports leagues or competitions. Train rigorously, participate in team practices, and perform in games or events.
  • Benefits: Turn your passion for sports into a career and compete at the highest levels.
  • Skills needed: Exceptional athletic ability, mental toughness, teamwork skills, and dedication to continuous improvement.
  • Job-specific tips: Start training and competing at a young age. Seek out top coaches and training programs in your sport.

21. Yoga instructor

As a yoga instructor, you can help improve the physical and mental well-being of the people around you. If you’re someone who’s already passionate about yoga, and enjoys working with people, then this is something to consider. There are plenty of options, too, as you can teach in-person or online around your own schedule. You’ll also get to choose your own hourly rate, which gives plenty of potential when it comes to earning. 

  • Average Salary: $40,000 – $80,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Teach yoga classes and help clients improve their physical and mental well-being. Design and lead classes for various skill levels and styles of yoga.
  • Benefits: Promote wellness and inner peace while maintaining your own zen lifestyle.
  • Skills needed: Deep knowledge of yoga poses and philosophy, excellent teaching and communication skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Complete a recognized yoga teacher training program. Develop a unique teaching style to stand out in a competitive market.

If You Love Travel & The Outdoors:

For those who can’t stay still in one place and whoc love nature, these careers offer the opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and work in breathtaking outdoor environments.

22. Travel blogger

If you’ve got a penchant for writing, and enjoy seeing the world, starting a blog is a great way to monetize your passion. You’ll get to document your travels for others to learn from, and build an online community of like minded people interested in reading your content. Not only is this rewarding on a personal level, but the most famous bloggers earn a lot through advertisements and brand deals. 

  • Average Salary: Varies widely (successful bloggers can earn $100,000+ per year)
  • What you’d do: Write about travel experiences and destinations on a personal blog or for publications. Create engaging content including articles, photos, and videos.
  • Benefits: Explore exotic locations and share your adventures with a global audience.
  • Skills needed: Excellent writing skills, photography and video editing abilities, social media savvy, and self-motivation.
  • Job-specific tips: Start by building a strong social media presence. Learn SEO to increase your blog’s visibility. Network with other travel bloggers and brands.

23. Park ranger

The world is full of beautiful parks, all of which need to be maintained. As a park ranger, that’s exactly what you’d do, supporting conservation efforts and working with the wildlife. You’ll spend your days in the great outdoors, patrolling the park and watching for threats to the animals there; it’s a job where no two days are the same. 

  • Average Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Protect and manage national parks, forests, and other natural areas. Conduct tours, enforce park rules, and assist in wildlife management and conservation efforts.
  • Benefits: Work in some of the most beautiful natural settings, protecting wildlife and educating visitors.
  • Skills needed: Knowledge of natural sciences, outdoor skills, public speaking ability, and often law enforcement training.
  • Job-specific tips: Gain experience through volunteer work in parks. Consider getting a degree in environmental science, forestry, or a related field.

24. Adventure guide

Group trips are becoming an ever-more popular way of traveling, and each of these trips needs a guide with them. When you factor in tips these positions are well-paying, plus you’ll often get free food and accommodation around the world. You’ll get to lead activities like rafting, climbing, or hiking and help people forge life-long memories, making plenty of friends along the way. 

  • Average Salary: $30,000 – $50,000 per year (can be higher with tips)
  • What you’d do: Lead groups on outdoor adventures like white-water rafting, rock climbing, or hiking. Ensure safety, provide instruction, and share knowledge about local flora, fauna, and geography.
  • Benefits: Lead thrilling expeditions and help others push their limits in the great outdoors.
  • Skills needed: Expertise in specific outdoor activities, first aid and rescue skills, leadership abilities, and often foreign language skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Become certified in your chosen adventure activities. Work on building a strong safety record and positive client reviews.

25. Archaeologist

If you become an archaeologist, you’ll spend your days out in the field, excavating artifacts which help us to understand the story of humanity. As well as that, you’ll use your findings to contribute to academic publications which will be used to understand past civilizations. You’ll need a strong attention to detail and be willing to spend long days out in the sun, but this is a highly rewarding career path for anyone interested in history. 

  • Average Salary: $65,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Study human history through the excavation and analysis of artifacts and physical remains. Conduct field research, analyze findings, and contribute to academic publications.
  • Benefits: Uncover ancient mysteries and piece together the stories of past civilizations.
  • Skills needed: Knowledge of history and anthropology, meticulous attention to detail, physical stamina for fieldwork, and strong analytical skills.
  • Job-specific tips: Participate in field schools and excavations during your studies. Learn to use sophisticated tools and technologies used in modern archaeology.

If You Love Science & Space:

These careers are perfect for those with a deep curiosity about the universe, a love for discovery, and a passion for understanding how things work. These jobs offer the opportunity to push the boundaries of human knowledge and explore the unknown.

26. Astronomer

As an astronomer, you’ll be studying celestial bodies and the observable universe to develop our theories about space. It’ll give you the chance to work on some of the greatest mysteries humanity faces, and is an incredibly exciting and rapidly developing field. Becoming an astronomer requires exceptional mathematical and analytical skills, but it’s also a well-paid field. 

  • Average Salary: $100,000 – $150,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Study celestial bodies, space, and the physical universe. Conduct research, analyze data from telescopes and space probes, and develop theories about cosmic phenomena.
  • Benefits: Gaze at the stars and unravel the mysteries of the universe.
  • Skills needed: Advanced mathematics, physics knowledge, data analysis skills, and proficiency in using specialized astronomical equipment.
  • Job-specific tips: Pursue a Ph.D. in astronomy or astrophysics. Gain experience with advanced telescopes and data analysis software.

27. Meteorologist

Meteorologists study weather patterns to make predictions and forecasts, helping the general population know what to expect in the coming days. You’ll also get to chase storms and work out in the field, as well as appear on television or radio to present forecasts. If you’re interested in atmospheric science and want a varied career, becoming a meteorologist is something to consider. 

  • Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Study the atmosphere and weather patterns to make forecasts. Analyze weather data, create weather maps, and often present forecasts on television or radio.
  • Benefits: Chase storms and predict weather patterns, becoming the face people trust for their forecasts.
  • Skills needed: Strong understanding of atmospheric science, data analysis skills, and often public speaking abilities for broadcast roles.
  • Job-specific tips: Get a degree in meteorology or atmospheric science. Gain experience through internships at weather stations or research institutions.

28. Geologist

If you’re someone who loves science, nature, and the great outdoors, working as a geologist will let you enjoy all three as part of your job. You’ll need to be okay with getting a little dirty one day, then working on large datasets the next, but you’ll be paid well for your efforts. 

  • Average Salary: $75,000 – $120,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Study the Earth’s structure and processes. Conduct fieldwork to collect samples, analyze geological data, and often work in resource extraction industries.
  • Benefits: Explore the Earth’s hidden treasures and study the dramatic forces that shape our planet.
  • Skills needed: Knowledge of earth sciences, physical stamina for fieldwork, analytical skills, and often proficiency in specialized software.
  • Job-specific tips: Participate in geological field camps during your studies. Consider specializing in areas like environmental geology or petroleum geology.

29. Astronaut

As an astronaut, you’ll be taking on the final frontier – space. It’s the adventure that’s captured the human mind for milenia, and it’s a real opportunity in the modern day. You’ll be traveling up into space in the latest crafts, before performing experiments to further the boundaries of human knowledge. It requires exceptional fitness and bravery, but you’ll be well-paid and get to work on the edge of human capabilities. 

  • Average Salary: $65,000 – $100,000 per year (NASA)
  • What you’d do: Travel in spacecraft and conduct experiments in space. Train extensively for space missions and potentially perform spacewalks.
  • Benefits: Experience the ultimate adventure by venturing into space and conducting groundbreaking experiments.
  • Skills needed: Advanced degrees in science or engineering, exceptional physical fitness, mental resilience, and often pilot experience.
  • Job-specific tips: Pursue a career in the military or earn advanced degrees in STEM fields. Stay in peak physical condition and be prepared for a highly competitive selection process.

If You're Creative:

These careers are ideal for those with a strong artistic flair, innovative thinking, and a desire to bring ideas to life visually. Whether you’re into digital art, fashion, or interactive media, these jobs offer outlets for your creativity while providing substantial incomes. Most of these jobs have no income ceiling, with pay depending on expertise. Plus, you’ll get to work from anywhere and have the freedom to choose your own hours.

30. Graphic designer

If you’re someone who can visualize designs before they exist, and is constantly brimming with ideas for graphics, this could be the job for you. Likely working for lots of clients, you’ll need to be flexible and willing to meet highly-different briefs, but this provides the potential to earn a substantial income. It also means you can work on whatever projects excite you, and you can pick and choose where you feel most creative. 

  • Average Salary: $50,000 – $85,000 per year
  • What you’d do: Create visual concepts using computer software or by hand. Design layouts for websites, advertisements, brochures, and more.
  • Benefits: Bring ideas to life visually and see your designs displayed in various media.
  • Skills needed: Proficiency in design software, creativity, understanding of color theory and typography, and ability to meet client needs.
  • Job-specific tips: Build a strong portfolio showcasing various styles and mediums. Stay updated with the latest design trends and software.

31. Blogger

As a blog writer, you’ll be a source of authority on a whole host of topics. You’ll either create your own blog which you can monetize, be that through sponsorships or brand deals, or be paid to write for existing blogs. Plus, you can work as a writer from anywhere: you could wake up in a different city each week and still be able to work as normal. 

  • Average Salary: Varies widely ($0 – $1,00,000+ per year)
  • What you’d do: Create and manage a website where you regularly publish written content on specific topics. Engage with readers through comments and social media.
  • Benefits: Share your passion and expertise with a global audience while working from anywhere in the world.
  • Skills needed: Strong writing skills, basic web design and SEO knowledge, social media savvy, and expertise in your chosen niche.
  • Job-specific tips: Choose a specific niche to focus on. Consistency is key – post regularly and engage with your audience. Learn about monetization strategies like affiliate marketing and sponsored content.

32. YouTuber

YouTube has created new opportunities for content creators to showcase their talents to a global audience. This platform allows you to produce videos about your passions, potentially turning your creativity into a lucrative career. While the most successful YouTubers can become millionaires, it’s important to note that achieving this level of success requires significant effort and often many years of consistent production.

  • Average Salary: Varies widely ($0 – $1,000,000+ per year)
  • What you’d do: Create and upload video content to YouTube. This could include vlogs, tutorials, reviews, entertainment, or educational content.
  • Benefits: Express your creativity through video, build a dedicated fanbase, and potentially earn significant income through ad revenue and sponsorships.
  • Skills needed: Video production and editing skills, on-camera presence, creativity, and understanding of YouTube’s algorithm and monetization policies.
  • Job-specific tips: Find your unique voice and niche. Invest in good quality camera and audio equipment. Engage with your audience through comments and community posts.

33. Social media influencer

A career as a social media influencer allows you to create content about your passions while building a global audience. By sharing your interests and expertise, you’ll cultivate a dedicated following across various platforms. Additionally, you may receive perks such as free products and travel experiences. The appeal of this career lies in its flexibility to pursue what you genuinely care about while potentially turning your interests into a profitable venture. However, success in this field requires consistent effort, creativity, and adaptability to changing social media trends.

  • Average Salary: Varies widely ($0 – $1,000,000+ per year)
  • What you’d do: Build a large following on social media platforms by creating engaging content. Collaborate with brands for sponsored posts and promotions.
  • Benefits: Turn your social media presence into a career, potentially receiving free products, travel opportunities, and substantial income from brand deals.
  • Skills needed: Strong understanding of various social media platforms, content creation skills (photography, video, writing), and ability to engage and grow an audience.
  • Job-specific tips: Choose platforms that best suit your content style. Be authentic and consistent in your posting. Learn to negotiate with brands for sponsorships.

34. Author

As an author, you’ll write books on whatever interests you, or in the case of fiction you’ll come up with interesting and unique stories. You could become an author if you’re a natural story-teller, and someone who loves to share their ideas with the world. When writing you’ll get to manage your own time, and choose where you work – plus, you’ll get the chance to work with other authors from around the world. 

  • Average Salary: Varies widely ($0 – $1,000,000+ per year)
  • What you’d do: Write and publish books, which could be novels, non-fiction works, or educational materials. This involves researching, writing, editing, and often marketing your own work.
  • Benefits: Bring your imagination to life, share your ideas with the world, and potentially see your name on bestseller lists.
  • Skills needed: Excellent writing skills, creativity, self-discipline, and understanding of the publishing industry.
  • Job-specific tips: Start by writing consistently and developing your unique voice. Consider starting with self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Build an author platform through social media and a personal website.

35. Online coach

If there’s a specific area you’re an expert in, becoming a coach is a great way to monetize this while being your own boss. You’ll need to put in the effort to find clients and build a network, but you’ll be able to decide your hourly rate and how much or little you work. This could be anything from business coaching to relationship coaching, and you’ll need to find the niche that works for you. 

  • Average Salary: $50,000 – $200,000+ per year
  • What you’d do: Provide guidance and expertise in a specific niche (e.g., business, life coaching, relationship coaching, career coaching) through online platforms. This often involves one-on-one video calls, group webinars, and creating course materials.
  • Benefits: Help people transform their lives or businesses in an area you’re passionate about.
  • Skills needed: Deep knowledge in your chosen niche, excellent communication skills, empathy, and ability to motivate and inspire others.
  • Job-specific tips: Gain certifications relevant to your coaching niche. Build credibility through testimonials and case studies. Develop a strong online presence through a professional website and social media.

Best Overall Tips To Get These Fun Jobs:

  1. Pursue relevant education and certifications to stand out in your chosen field. For some, a specific qualification will be essential to start a career. 
  2. Gain hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions. While these are often unpaid, they pave the way for future earnings. 
  3. Build a strong network within your industry through professional associations and social media. Always take the time to get contact details from relevant professionals you meet. 
  4. Create a compelling portfolio or demo reel showcasing your best work and unique skills. This can be past work you’ve done, or example pieces done specifically to showcase. 
  5. Stay updated on industry trends and continuously improve your skills through workshops and courses. You can find these through platforms like LinkedIn. 
  6. Consider starting with freelance or part-time work to build experience and client relationships. Over time, you’ll build a strong freelance network and find work starts coming to you. 
  7. Develop strong soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving alongside technical abilities.
  8. Be open to entry-level or adjacent positions that can lead to your dream job. Don’t turn your nose up at things, especially if you’re moving into a new field. 
  9. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for each job application. Don’t send out copy-paste walls of text. 
  10. Show passion and enthusiasm for your chosen field in interviews and networking opportunities. This should be easy, as you’re picking a career you love!
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Ramit Sethi

 

Host of Netflix’s “How to Get Rich”, NYT Bestselling Author & host of the hit I Will Teach You To Be Rich Podcast. For over 20 years, Ramit has been sharing proven strategies to help people like you take control of their money and live a Rich Life.