What is the best paying trade?
Best Paying Trades
Trade jobs can offer lucrative salaries, especially as demand for skilled labor continues to rise. The best paying trade often depends on your location, experience, and industry demand. However, some consistently high-paying trades include:
- Elevator Installers and Repairers: These professionals install and maintain elevators, escalators, and similar equipment. In the United States, their median annual wage is often above $90,000, with experienced workers earning over $120,000.
- Electrical Power-Line Technicians: They install and repair electrical power systems and cables. Median annual salaries frequently exceed $80,000, with overtime and hazard pay increasing total compensation.
- Radiation Therapists: While requiring specialized certification, this trade pays a median salary above $85,000.
- Construction Managers: With experience, many construction managers (who typically start as tradespeople) can earn six-figure incomes.
- Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: Highly skilled plumbers can make $70,000–$100,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with union membership.
- HVAC Technicians: Experienced technicians who specialize in complex systems can make upwards of $70,000–$90,000 per year.
Key Considerations
- Certification and Licensing: Higher pay often requires certifications, licensing, and experience.
- Union Membership: Unionized trades tend to offer higher wages and better benefits.
- Location: Urban areas and regions with high demand for skilled labor typically pay more.
Ultimately, elevator installers and repairers are often cited as the highest paid traditional trade, but many other skilled trades offer excellent earning potential.