New federal projections show that while physicians remain the country's top earners, a six-figure salary in healthcare no longer requires a medical degree. The Labor Department's latest employment outlook, covering more than 800 occupations, highlights nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and medical and health services managers as among the fastest-growing jobs paying over $100,000 annually.
The nation's aging population continues to drive demand for healthcare and social assistance workers. That sector is expected to add roughly 2.2 million jobs through 2035, accounting for about 37 percent of all new employment. Nurse practitioner roles are projected to grow by 41 percent over the decade, nearly 12 times the overall employment growth rate of 3.5 percent. Their median annual wage stood at about $132,000 in 2025, compared with roughly $51,000 for all occupations.
AI fuels tech job growth
Artificial intelligence is the other major force reshaping the labor market. Data scientists and computer and information research scientists rank among the fastest-growing high-paying jobs, with median wages above $120,000. Information security analysts also feature prominently, reflecting heightened cybersecurity concerns across industries.
These trends align with broader policy debates over workforce development and the role of automation. Lawmakers have increasingly focused on retraining programs and education pathways to fill these roles, as economic policy shifts and labor market dynamics evolve.
Beyond healthcare and tech
The list of 13 fastest-growing jobs paying over $100,000 also includes roles in education, therapy, and scientific research. Postsecondary health specialties teachers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists are all projected to see double-digit growth. Industrial engineers, biochemists, and biophysicists round out the top tier, with median wages ranging from $100,000 to $127,000.
Medical scientists and health services managers are also poised for significant expansion, driven by an increased focus on healthcare delivery and management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that these projections reflect the latest wage data as of May 2025.
For workers considering career changes, the data underscores the value of advanced training in clinical and technical fields. However, experts caution that the rise of AI could also displace some roles, even as it creates new ones. As burnout concerns persist in healthcare, the growth in these occupations may not fully address workforce challenges.
Policymakers are watching these trends closely, particularly as they relate to healthcare access and affordability. The ongoing debates over healthcare funding and the political battles over labor policy could shape how these job gains translate into broader economic gains.
