15 Low Stress Jobs That Pay Above $40,000 Every Year

In today’s fast-paced world, stress at work affects many people, with over a third reporting chronic stress. This widespread feeling highlights an increasing demand for jobs that provide calmness and serenity.

Fortunately, there are numerous low-stress job options that can make a significant difference in your daily life. 

From librarians organizing books to graphic designers creating art, these roles allow for creativity, and flexibility, and often involve working independently or in serene settings like parks or museums. 

Discovering the right fit enhances job satisfaction and promotes a healthier work-life balance, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable career journey.

Massage Therapist

Working as a massage therapist is a low-stress job that offers a peaceful environment. You work with one client at a time, and if you’re self-employed, you can set your own schedule. 

Massage Therapist
PHOTO: THE PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE ACADEMY

Massage therapists help clients relax, relieve muscle tension, and reduce pain through therapeutic techniques like deep tissue or sports massage. 

They often work in calm settings such as spas or healthcare centers. To become a massage therapist, you need to complete training and pass a state license exam. 

This career is ideal for those who enjoy using their hands and interacting with others.

Average salary range: $57,000 to $104,000 per year.

Librarian

A librarian is ideal for those who love books and enjoy quiet environments. Librarians manage libraries, organize books, assist patrons in finding information, and sometimes host events. 

Librarian
PHOTO: EDUTOPIA

They work in peaceful settings like public libraries, schools, or universities, helping to create a serene atmosphere for reading and study. 

To become a librarian, you typically need a degree or certification recognized by the American Library Association. 

This profession values computer skills and interpersonal abilities. It’s a perfect choice for book enthusiasts seeking a relaxed career.

Average salary range: $43,000 to $67,000 per year.

Graphic Designer

Graphic design offers a low-stress career path where you can work independently and creatively. 

Designers craft visual concepts for websites, advertisements, and print media to communicate messages effectively. 

Graphic Designer
PHOTO: DOOLA

Whether freelancing or working for a company, graphic designers enjoy flexible work schedules and environments. 

While some have formal degrees, many enter the field through self-taught skills or specialized courses. 

Building a portfolio showcasing your designs is crucial for landing jobs. This profession suits those who thrive in creative expression and seek a balanced work life.

Average salary range: $47,000 to $68,000 per year.

Gardener

Working as a groundskeeper or gardener offers you a great job in serene outdoor settings. You’ll maintain and beautify gardens, enjoying the calm and natural surroundings. 

Gardener
PHOTO: HOME ADVISOR

This role involves nurturing plants, ensuring they thrive, and keeping the landscape tidy. It’s ideal for those who appreciate nature and prefer less interaction with others. 

A background in gardening or horticulture qualifications is beneficial. This job allows you to work independently and enjoy the peace and beauty of outdoor environments.

Average salary range: $34,000 to $60,000 per year.

Data Scientists

A data scientist job is low-stress due to its flexible working conditions and manageable deadlines. 

Data scientists play a crucial role in analyzing large datasets using technology to extract valuable insights for businesses. 

Data Scientists
PHOTO: CIO

While a background in mathematics or computer science is typical, there are alternative paths into the field through boot camps and online programs that teach necessary data science skills. 

The demand for data scientists is strong, with opportunities expanding in various sectors, particularly in tech. 

This career offers the chance to work remotely and contribute to important decision-making processes using advanced analytical tools and techniques.

Average salary range:  $103,500 to $145,080 per year.

Pet Jobs

A pet groomer or pet sitter is a rewarding job, especially for animal lovers. Pet groomers enhance pets’ hygiene and appearance by bathing, brushing, and trimming their fur and nails. 

Pet Jobs
PHOTO: USA TODAY

They also ensure grooming tools are well-maintained. Pet sitters, on the other hand, care for pets in their owners’ absence, providing companionship, feeding, and exercise. 

These roles require a love for animals and good communication skills to interact with pet owners. 

While formal education isn’t necessary, prior experience with animals and training in pet grooming is beneficial.

Average salary range: $37,000 to $47,000 per year.

Dental Assistant

As a dental assistant, you support dentists in providing patient care and managing office tasks. You’ll greet patients, maintain records, and assist during procedures while ensuring dental tools are clean and ready. 

Dental Assistant
PHOTO: ARIZONA COLLEGE OF NURSING

This role requires organization, kindness towards patients, and the ability to work well under supervision. 

A high school diploma or associate’s degree is typically required to enter this field. Dental assistants work in healthcare centers or dental offices, enjoying stable job prospects and decent pay.

Average salary range: $53,666 to $72,482 per year.

Fitness Instructor

Working as a fitness instructor is a low-stress job that promotes physical activity and well-being. 

Fitness instructors lead exercise classes, design workout routines, and provide motivation to clients at gyms or through online platforms. 

Fitness Instructor
PHOTO: INTERNATIONAL CAREER INSTITUTE

They help people achieve their fitness goals, which can be highly rewarding. This career is ideal for those who enjoy staying active and interacting with others in a positive environment. 

To become a fitness instructor, you typically need certification in fitness training and, in some cases, specialized training in yoga or other fitness disciplines.

Average salary range: $33,000 to $82,000 per year.

Interior Designer

Interior designers create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces for homes, offices, and public areas. 

They blend creativity with client needs to design interiors that enhance comfort and style. This job allows for artistic expression and can be fulfilling for those who enjoy design challenges. 

Interior Designer
PHOTO: FOYR

While project deadlines can be demanding, managing stress through effective time management is key. 

To enter this field, a degree in interior design or a related area, a strong portfolio, and technical skills are typically required.

Average salary range: $41,000 to $56,000 per year.

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants support medical professionals by managing patient records, preparing treatment rooms, and assisting during procedures. 

Medical Assistant
PHOTO: MIDWEST TECHNICAL INTITUTE

They also administer medications and handle general administrative tasks. This role is ideal for those interested in healthcare but prefer a less intensive path than nursing or medical school. 

To become a medical assistant, completing a medical assistant program and gaining internship experience is beneficial. Strong customer service skills and knowledge of patient care are also essential.

Average salary range: $35,000 to $45,000 per year.

Optician

Opticians work alongside optometrists, helping patients select and adjust eyewear based on prescriptions. 

This low-stress job involves assisting with frame selection, repairing broken glasses, and advising on eyewear care. 

Optician
PHOTO: EYE SPY OPTOMETRY

Opticians require good customer service skills and attention to detail to ensure patients receive accurate prescriptions. 

While formal education isn’t always required, completing an apprenticeship or earning an associate degree in optics is beneficial. 

Licenses may be necessary in some states. This career offers stability and the satisfaction of improving patients’ vision without high-stress demands.

Average salary range: $25,716 to $45,922 per year.

Virtual Assistant

As a virtual assistant,  you handle administrative tasks for clients remotely. This includes scheduling appointments, managing records, answering calls and emails, and handling professional inquiries. 

Virtual Assistant (3)
PHOTO: ROAM

You’ll need strong organizational skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and proficiency in virtual communication tools like Skype. It is suitable for those who prefer remote work environments.

This job offers flexibility and the opportunity to work from home with minimal supervision. While it requires some social interaction, most of it is through virtual mediums. 

Average salary range: $50,880 to $80,274 per year.

Hair Stylist

Hairstylists are cosmetology professionals who offer a variety of hair salon services, such as cutting, coloring, shampooing, perming, and styling hair. 

They also provide advice on hair treatments, recommend products for maintaining hairstyles, and may offer additional services like waxing or nail care. This job is perfect for those who enjoy creativity and attention to detail. 

Hair Stylist
PHOTO: THERAPY HAIR STUDIO

While a university degree isn’t necessary, hairstylists must obtain a cosmetology license by completing a state-approved program and passing an exam.

Average salary range: $40,306 to $67,794 per year.

Photographer

Photography offers a range of specialties like wildlife, food, weddings, and corporate shoots. Capturing moments can be thrilling and less demanding than high-stress jobs. 

Photographer
PHOTO: DESIGNER DAILY

While formal education isn’t necessary, a fine arts degree and hands-on experience can boost your career. 

Starting with short courses and building a strong portfolio is key to success in this creative field.

Average salary range: $43,000 to $60,000 per year.

Actuary

Actuaries are financial professionals who analyze and manage the financial risks faced by companies. 

Using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, they help businesses develop strategies to minimize risks. 

Actuary
PHOTO: COPUTER SCIENCE ORG

This role is known for its structured environment and predictable workload, which contribute to low-stress levels. 

Actuaries often enjoy regular working hours and the option to work from home using online communication tools. 

A bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter this field, and job growth is expected to be strong.

Average salary range: $80,000 to $122,754 per year.

Conclusion

Choosing a low-stress job can significantly enhance your quality of life by providing a balanced work environment and reducing daily pressures. 

From creative roles like graphic design and photography to hands-on positions like massage therapy and gardening, numerous career options offer a peaceful and fulfilling work experience.

These jobs not only provide serenity but also offer competitive salaries, making them viable and rewarding career paths. 

By finding a role that aligns with your interests and skills, you can achieve a healthier work-life balance and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable career journey.

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