10 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs in 2026

High pay doesn’t have to come with nonstop pressure. For our Workplace Stress Premium Report, we gave 754 U.S. occupations a Stress Index score from 0 (least stressful) to 100 (most stressful), based on day-to-day working conditions like time pressure, conflict, difficult people, and long hours.

If you’re looking for a low-stress role, keep an eye out for jobs with few physical demands or roles that offer remote options. Working remotely can give you the flexibility to create a comfortable work environment and avoid the extra time spent commuting.

Stress Index: 0 = least stressful, 100 = most stressful (of the 754 occupations we ranked). Scores work like percentiles: a job scoring 10 is less stressful than 89% of the jobs we analyzed. Median pay: BLS, May 2025. Where scores tie, the higher-paying job ranks first.

The Stress Index measures day-to-day working conditions and doesn’t account for job security. “Calm” does not imply that these jobs are easy to land: some of these fields, especially software development, have had a tough hiring market recently.

The 10 least stressful six-figure jobs

1. Electronics engineer

• Stress Index: 8/100 (less stressful than 91% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $130,220
• Median hourly wage: $62.60
• Top 10% of earners: $206,960
• Number of jobs: 96,900
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 4%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does an electronics engineer do?

Electronics engineers design and develop the components and circuitry inside electronic products. They may also oversee how those products are manufactured and tested.

Why is electronics engineering a low-stress job?

Electronics engineering is the least stressful six-figure job in our analysis. Fewer than 1% of electronics engineers face time pressure every day (compared with 37% on average), and just 6% deal with angry or unpleasant people every week. Most projects follow planned design and testing cycles, so urgent, same-day problems are uncommon.

How to become an electronics engineer

Most electronics engineers study electrical or electronics engineering and gain practical experience through internships or co-op programs. Some employers prefer a master’s degree. Experienced engineers can also earn a Professional Engineering (PE) license.

2. Software developer

• Stress Index: 10/100 (less stressful than 89% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $135,980
• Median hourly wage: $65.38
• Top 10% of earners: $214,670
• Number of jobs: 1,687,900
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 10%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does a software developer do?

Software developers design, build, and maintain the programs and apps people use every day, working out what users need, writing and testing code, and fixing problems after launch.

Why is software development a low-stress job?

Software developers report almost no workplace conflict or dealings with angry people. Long weeks are uncommon, too, with only 8% regularly working more than 40 hours (compared with 42% on average).

However, the Stress Index doesn’t measure job security. U.S. software development job postings in mid-2026 were still more than a quarter below pre-pandemic levels, according to Indeed Hiring Lab, and most of the recent recovery has been in senior roles.

How to become a software developer

Most software developers study computer science or a related field, such as engineering or math, and may do internships to build experience while they study. Developers also need to keep learning new programming languages and tools throughout their careers.

3. Statistician

• Stress Index: 10/100 (less stressful than 89% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $105,650
• Median hourly wage: $50.79
• Top 10% of earners: $174,050
• Number of jobs: 29,000
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 11%
• Typical education: Master’s degree

What does a statistician do?

Statisticians design surveys and experiments, then analyze the data to answer questions in various fields including healthcare, government, finance, and sports. Their findings help organizations make evidence-based decisions.

Why is statistics a low-stress job?

None of the statisticians surveyed reported daily time pressure, and only 5% deal with angry people weekly. However, about half (48%) regularly work more than 40 hours a week, and deadlines or last-minute requests can require them to work overtime.

How to become a statistician

Statisticians usually study statistics, math, or a related field. Some entry-level jobs accept a bachelor’s degree, while senior roles may require a doctorate. The federal government is the largest employer.

4. Data scientist

• Stress Index: 13/100 (less stressful than 86% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $120,230
• Median hourly wage: $57.80
• Top 10% of earners: $199,130
• Number of jobs: 262,400
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 35%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does a data scientist do?

Data scientists use statistics, programming, and machine learning to find patterns in large datasets. They build models that predict things like customer behavior or demand, and also may be responsible for explaining the results to business teams.

Why is data science a low-stress job?

Data scientists report no weekly conflict or dealings with angry people, and just 4% face daily time pressure. Competition is the biggest source of pressure, with 70% describing their work environment as highly or extremely competitive (about double the average).

How to become a data scientist

Data scientists typically study math, statistics, computer science, or a related field. They need to be comfortable with programming languages and statistical and database software, and some employers prefer a master’s degree or doctorate. Knowledge of a specific industry, such as finance, can also help.

5. Computer and information research scientist

• Stress Index: 14/100 (less stressful than 85% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $140,300
• Median hourly wage: $67.45
• Top 10% of earners: $230,630
• Number of jobs: 37,200
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 22%
• Typical education: Master’s degree

What does a computer and information research scientist do?

Computer and information research scientists invent new ways to use computing technology. They work on problems like artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity, often at tech companies, universities, or government research labs.

Why is computer and information research a low-stress job?

Just 1% of computer and information researchers deal with conflict or angry people weekly, and 7% face daily time pressure. Research runs on long project timelines, and more than half (54%) have a lot of freedom to make their own decisions.

How to become a computer and information research scientist

Most computer and information research scientists have a master’s degree in computer science or a related field, such as computer engineering, and some employers prefer a Ph.D. The federal government, which employs nearly a third of these researchers, may hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

6. Actuary

• Stress Index: 15/100 (less stressful than 84% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $130,000
• Median hourly wage: $62.50
• Top 10% of earners: $215,100
• Number of jobs: 26,700
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 9%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does an actuary do?

Actuaries use math, statistics, and financial models to estimate the cost of risk, such as accidents, illness, or market shifts. Most work in insurance or pensions, where their analysis helps set prices and plan long-term finances.

Why is being an actuary a low-stress job?

None of the actuaries surveyed reported daily time pressure or weekly having to deal with angry people. Their work runs on planned timelines, with long stretches of focused analysis.

How to become an actuary

Actuaries typically study math, actuarial science, statistics, or another analytical field, then pass a series of professional exams. Many employers expect new hires to have passed one or two before graduating.

The exams are the most stressful part of the career for many actuaries. Earning an associate-level credential can take up to seven years, and full fellowship takes several more.

7. Web and digital interface designer

• Stress Index: 15/100 (less stressful than 84% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $104,000
• Median hourly wage: $50.00
• Top 10% of earners: $201,550
• Number of jobs: 113,300
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 6%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does a web and digital interface designer do?

Web and digital interface designers plan how websites and apps look and work. They create layouts, test how easy designs are to use, and work with developers to bring them to life.

Why is web and digital interface design a low-stress job?

About half (53%) of designers face time pressure every day, but the stakes are usually lower than in most jobs. Only 15% say a mistake would be very or extremely serious (compared with 40% on average), and just 9% regularly work more than 40 hours a week.

About 1 in 8 designers are self-employed, which gives them more control over projects and hours.

How to become a web and digital interface designer

Employers may prefer web and digital interface designers with a degree in web design, digital design, or graphic arts. A strong portfolio of past projects can sometimes stand in for formal credentials.

8. Physicist

• Stress Index: 18/100 (less stressful than 81% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $172,250
• Median hourly wage: $82.81
• Top 10% of earners: $274,110
• Number of jobs: 20,400
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 7%
• Typical education: Doctoral or professional degree

What does a physicist do?

Physicists study how matter and energy behave, working on microscopic and massive scales. They run experiments, build theories and models, and apply their findings in areas like energy, medical technology, and defense.

Why is physics a low-stress job?

None of the physicists surveyed reported daily time pressure, weekly conflict, or having to deal with angry people. However, 70% regularly work more than 40 hours a week, and 80% describe their field as highly or extremely competitive.

How to become a physicist

After a Ph.D., many physicists spend two to three years in a postdoctoral research position before landing a permanent role. Some entry-level federal government jobs only require a bachelor’s degree in physics. Because federal spending funds much physics research, the federal budget can affect how many jobs are available.

9. Materials engineer

• Stress Index: 18/100 (less stressful than 81% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $112,860
• Median hourly wage: $54.26
• Top 10% of earners: $175,720
• Number of jobs: 22,800
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 8%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does a materials engineer do?

Materials engineers develop and test materials, such as metals, ceramics, plastics, and composites. They work out which materials suit a product and how to make them stronger, lighter, or cheaper.

Why is materials engineering a low-stress job?

Materials engineers reported no daily time pressure, and just 4% deal with angry people weekly. That said, 63% say they have high responsibility for the health and safety of others, above the 49% average, since the materials they choose end up in vehicles and equipment people rely on.

How to become a materials engineer

Most materials engineers study materials science and engineering or a related field and build practical experience through internships or co-op programs. Research and development roles often require a master’s degree or Ph.D.

10. Aerospace engineer

• Stress Index: 19/100 (less stressful than 80% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $134,960
• Median hourly wage: $64.89
• Top 10% of earners: $205,890
• Number of jobs: 67,700
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 8%
• Typical education: Bachelor’s degree

What does an aerospace engineer do?

Aerospace engineers design and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work for aerospace manufacturers, engineering firms, and government agencies.

Why is aerospace engineering a low-stress job?

Aerospace engineers rarely deal with difficult people. None of the employees surveyed reported weekly dealings with angry people, and just 3% face weekly conflict in the workplace. Long hours are the main drawback: almost three in four (73%) regularly work more than 40 hours a week, often to monitor progress or troubleshoot problems.

How to become an aerospace engineer

Aerospace engineers usually study aerospace engineering or a related field. Some colleges offer five-year programs that combine a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Defense projects may require a security clearance, and some clearances require U.S. citizenship.

Low-stress, high-paying jobs without a degree

High-paying low-stress jobs don’t always require a college degree. These five are the best-paid low-stress jobs in our analysis that typically need a postsecondary certificate or less, and all pay well above the U.S. median wage of $50,980.

1. CNC tool programmer

• Stress Index: 33/100 (less stressful than 66% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $68,120
• Median hourly wage: $32.75
• Top 10% of earners: $100,320
• Number of jobs: 28,500
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 6%
• Typical education: Postsecondary nondegree award

What does a CNC tool programmer do?

CNC (computer numerically controlled) tool programmers write the programs that tell automated machine tools how to cut and shape metal and plastic parts. They turn computer-aided designs into instructions that machines can follow.

Why is CNC tool programming a low-stress job?

Long weeks are less common than in most jobs, with 22% of CNC tool programmers regularly working more than 40 hours (compared with 42% on average). Fewer than a third (32%) say they have high responsibility for the health and safety of others, compared with 49% on average.

Conflict is more common, though. About 39% handle conflict at least weekly, above the 32% average.

How to become a CNC tool programmer

Most CNC tool programmers complete postsecondary training, and community colleges and technical schools offer courses and certificates in CNC programming. Training in computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software also helps, and certifications can support advancement.

2. Machinist

• Stress Index: 30/100 (less stressful than 69% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $58,750
• Median hourly wage: $28.24
• Top 10% of earners: $80,010
• Number of jobs: 287,100
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 1%
• Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent

What does a machinist do?

Machinists set up and operate machine tools to make precision metal parts. Many also program the CNC machines they operate.

Why is machining a low-stress job?

Only 11% of machinists deal with angry people weekly, and 19% handle conflict weekly, compared with about 32% on average for each. Deadlines are more common, with 57% facing time pressure every day.

How to become a machinist

Most machinists learn on the job or through an apprenticeship, and community colleges offer programs in CNC machine programming. Optional certifications in CNC operation and CAD/CAM software can help with advancement.

3. Massage therapist

• Stress Index: 10/100 (less stressful than 89% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $58,450
• Median hourly wage: $28.10
• Top 10% of earners: $100,200
• Number of jobs: 98,800
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 15%
• Typical education: Postsecondary nondegree award

What does a massage therapist do?

Massage therapists perform physical massage techniques on clients to ease muscle and joint pain, help with injury recovery, and reduce stress. Common specialties include Swedish, deep-tissue, and sports massage.

Why is massage therapy a low-stress job?

Massage therapists almost never deal with conflict or angry people (4% weekly for each), and none of those surveyed regularly work more than 40 hours a week. Nearly three in four (74%) have a lot of freedom to make decisions.

About a third are self-employed, which gives them more control over their schedules. The work is physically demanding, though, and repetitive-motion injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome) are the most common risk.

How to become a massage therapist

Most massage therapists complete a training program at a private school or community college, which can take several months to a few years. Most states also require a license, which typically means graduating from an approved program and passing an exam.

4. Mechanical insulation worker

• Stress Index: 27/100 (less stressful than 72% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $58,340
• Median hourly wage: $28.05
• Top 10% of earners: $100,220
• Number of jobs: 25,700
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 5%
• Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent

What does a mechanical insulation worker do?

Mechanical insulation workers install insulation on pipes, ductwork, and equipment, often in large industrial buildings. They measure and cut insulation to fit, secure it with clamps, tape, or screws, and sometimes cover it with metal or plastic to protect it.

Why is mechanical insulation a low-stress job?

Only 14% of mechanical insulation workers say a mistake would be very or extremely serious, about a third of the 40% average. Just 26% regularly work more than 40 hours a week, compared with 42% on average.

Safety is still a big part of the job, with 77% saying they have high responsibility for the health and safety of others. The work can also be physically demanding, often involving confined spaces, heights, and extreme temperatures.

How to become a mechanical insulation worker

Many mechanical insulation workers complete a four- to five-year apprenticeship through a union or contractor, combining paid on-the-job training with technical instruction. Workers who remove asbestos also need training from an EPA-accredited program, and some states require a license.

5. Plasterer and stucco mason

• Stress Index: 7/100 (less stressful than 92% of jobs)
• Median annual salary: $57,660
• Median hourly wage: $27.72
• Top 10% of earners: $96,710
• Number of jobs: 19,300
• Estimated job growth (2025–2035): 3%
• Typical education: No formal educational credential

What does a plasterer and stucco mason do?

Plasterers and stucco masons apply plaster, cement, stucco, and similar materials to interior and exterior walls and ceilings. Some also create decorative plasterwork.

Why is plastering a low-stress job?

Long weeks are rare, with just 3% of plasterers and stucco masons regularly working more than 40 hours (compared with 42% on average). They also deal with less conflict (15% weekly) and fewer angry people (14%) than average.

How to become a plasterer and stucco mason

Most plasterers learn on the job, with training that can take anywhere from a few days to a year. A registered apprenticeship is another way into the trade.

Tips for finding a low-stress high-paying job

Finding a low-stress job might feel overwhelming, but focusing on these three tips can help make your search a smoother, more manageable experience.

1. Look for roles with predictable work and clear boundaries

“Low stress” often comes down to structure. Jobs with stable schedules, repeatable workflows, and fewer last-minute emergencies tend to feel more manageable day to day. When you’re researching roles, look for signs of routine that are suitable for you.

2. Use small experiments to see what you actually enjoy

Before you commit to a new path, try low-risk ways to test the waters, such as enrolling in a short course or interviewing with someone in your target field. Pay attention to what energizes you versus what drains you — some people love deep-focus work, while others prefer hands-on tasks or more teamwork.

3. Choose a work setup that supports your life

Sometimes the biggest stress reducer isn’t the job title — it’s the environment. If commuting drains you, prioritize remote or hybrid roles. If you do better with routine, look for positions with set hours instead of rotating shifts or frequent overtime. And if location affects your quality of life, like cost of living, family, weather, access to nature, factor that in early so you’re not stuck with a “great” job that makes the rest of your life harder.

Methodology

These rankings come from our Workplace Stress Premium Report, which analyzed 754 U.S. occupations using the O*NET 31.0 database (August 2026) and pay and outlook data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The Stress Index (0–100) combines eight O*NET measures. O*NET’s Stress Tolerance rating, which shows how much coping with stress matters for doing a job well, makes up one-third of the score. The other two-thirds are split equally across seven work conditions: time pressure; conflict situations; dealing with unpleasant or angry people; consequences of errors; responsibility for others’ health and safety; level of competition; and the share of workers on weeks longer than 40 hours. Each measure was converted to a percentile rank across all 754 occupations, combined, and ranked again to give a 0–100 score. Because the final score is a rank, it works like a percentile: a job scoring 10 is less stressful than 89% of the 754 jobs we analyzed. A score of 33 or below counts as low-stress.

Main list: Jobs with a median annual wage of $100,000 or more, at least 10,000 workers nationwide, and positive projected growth through 2035, ranked from the lowest Stress Index score. Where scores tie, the higher-paying job ranks first. Catch-all “All Other” occupations are excluded.

No-degree list: The five highest-paying jobs with a low-stress score (33 or below), at least 10,000 workers, and positive projected growth through 2035, limited to jobs that typically require a postsecondary nondegree award, a high school diploma, or less. Ranked by median annual wage.

Pay and growth: Median annual pay, median hourly pay, 90th percentile pay, and number of jobs come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Projected growth and typical entry-level education come from BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Worker percentages come from O*NET survey data.

Limitations: The Stress Index is a relative measure of day-to-day working conditions for the typical job in each occupation. It isn’t a clinical measure, and it doesn’t cover job security, layoff risk, or any particular employer. Wages are national medians and vary by location, experience, and employer.

This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Resume Genius has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.

Sources

• O*NET Resource Center, O*NET 31.0 Database
• O*NET, O*NET OnLine
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Indeed Hiring Lab, AI and Job Postings: From Destruction to Creation?

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