9 Unexpected Jobs That Make $200k a Year

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I was totally floored when I found out my quiet friend—you know, the one who always seemed glued to their laptop at home—was actually making over $200,000 a year. Turns out, freelance writing is one of those unexpected jobs that make $200k a year. Who would’ve thought?

It completely changed my idea of what a high-paying job looks like. I bet you’ve had similar moments of surprise, realizing that not all great careers require years of med school or law school.

The truth is that the landscape of six-figure jobs is shifting. It’s not just about decades of experience or fancy degrees anymore. Now, some of the most financially rewarding careers are in fields you might never expect.

It’s inspiring to see figures about average net worth, like how people in their late 40s and early 50s often have accumulated over half a million dollars. But a key factor in building that kind of wealth is consistent, high income. What if the right job could provide that?

I truly believe this level of income is achievable, which is why I’ve compiled this list of nine surprising jobs where earning $200k a year is a genuine possibility. Yes, you heard that right!

Heads Up: Make sure to pin the image below to your Pinterest board so you can easily come back later and explore more amazing jobs that pay $200k a year—I’ll keep updating it with fresh opportunities!

Jobs That Make $200k a Year: Breaking Down the Options

The world of high-paying jobs is evolving. No longer are doctors and lawyers the only ones making big money. Now, new careers are popping up, promising financial success.

1. Corporate Pilot: Flying High in Income

Who hasn’t looked up at a plane and wondered what it’s like to be up there, in control? And if that thought was followed by a peek at pilot salaries, you might have been even more intrigued.

We’re talking about serious earning potential here. Corporate pilots, in particular, are among the top earners in aviation, often pulling in well over $200,000 a year. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (as of May 2023), airline pilots have a median annual salary of a whopping $239,200!

Now, getting into the cockpit of a corporate jet isn’t exactly a walk in the park. There’s a fair bit of training and a whole bunch of certifications you’ll need to tick off. Think of it as an investment in your future.

You’re looking at needing a commercial pilot license, an instrument rating (so you can fly in all kinds of weather), a multi-engine rating (for those bigger planes), and specific type ratings for the aircraft you’ll be flying.

Oh, and let’s not forget those thousands of flight hours you’ll need to log. It’s a commitment, no doubt, but for those with a true passion for flying, the payoff can be huge.

But it’s not all blue skies and smooth landings. This job comes with its own set of challenges. You’ll likely spend a lot of time away from home, and your schedule might be pretty irregular.

Plus, there’s the inherent stress that comes with being responsible for the safety of your passengers. It’s a big responsibility, and it requires a certain kind of person—someone who’s dedicated, detail-oriented, and truly loves the art of flying.

2. Divorce Attorney: High Stakes, High Rewards

Specifically, the kind of money that makes you stop and think. You know, the kind that makes you wonder, “How do they do that?”

Well, one career path that often comes with a hefty paycheck is divorce law, especially when you’re dealing with high-net-worth cases. These attorneys are navigating complex financial situations and emotionally charged disputes, which means high stakes and high rewards. It’s a demanding field, no doubt, but the financial payoff can be significant.

Now, becoming a successful divorce attorney isn’t just about knowing the law books inside and out (though that’s important!). It takes a unique blend of skills. Think sharp negotiation tactics, a deep understanding of family law, and a whole lot of emotional intelligence.

Because let’s be real, you’re not just dealing with legal documents; you’re helping people through one of the most difficult periods of their lives. It’s about being a guide, a strategist, and sometimes even a shoulder to lean on.

This kind of work comes with its challenges. Expect long hours and a fair amount of stress. But here’s the thing: many divorce attorneys, especially those handling complex cases, earn well over $200,000 a year.

That puts them in the same league as other high-earning professionals like corporate pilots and cloud architects. It’s a serious career with serious earning potential.

What’s interesting about divorce law is the potential for specialization and growth. You could focus on high-net-worth cases, which often involve intricate financial assets and business valuations.

Building a reputation for achieving successful outcomes for your clients is huge, and it can lead to developing a network of affluent clients—which, of course, can further boost your earning potential.

3. Freelance Writer

Let’s talk about making money from home. I’ve heard stories—and maybe you have too—about freelance writers pulling in some serious cash. Like, up to $300,000 in one year.

Now, that’s the high end, the absolute top tier, but it shows you what’s possible. The beauty of freelance writing is the flexibility. You’re your own boss, setting your own hours, working from wherever you want.

But it’s also about the profit potential. If you’ve got the skills and the drive, it can be incredibly rewarding—both personally and financially.

So, how do freelance writers get paid? It’s not always a simple answer. There are a few different ways it works. Some writers charge by the word—like, “I’ll write this blog post for X dollars per word.” Others work on a per-project basis—”I’ll write your website copy for a flat fee of Y dollars.”

And some build ongoing relationships with regular clients, which provides more consistent income.

Here’s where it gets interesting: the top writers, especially those specializing in in-demand areas like technical writing (think manuals and how-to guides) or sales copy (writing that’s designed to persuade people to buy something), can command some seriously high rates.

They might also snag bonuses for exceptional work or even get referral bonuses for bringing in new clients. It’s like a reward for being awesome at what you do.

But what does it take to succeed as a freelance writer? It’s not just about knowing your commas from your semicolons, although good grammar is a must. There’s a whole set of essential skills.

First, you need to be a fantastic writer and editor. This means not just writing well, but also being able to polish and refine your work. Research is another big one. You need to be able to dig deep, find reliable information, and present it.

Time management is crucial—you’re juggling multiple projects and deadlines, so being organized is key. And then there’s client communication. You need to be able to understand what your clients want, communicate effectively, and build strong working relationships.

Finally, having expertise in a particular niche—like finance, technology, or health—can set you apart and allow you to charge higher rates.

And how do you grow your freelance writing career? There are a few paths you can take. One is to specialize in those high-paying niches I mentioned earlier. Another is to build a killer portfolio that showcases your best work. The stronger your portfolio, the more likely you are to attract high-paying clients.

4. Blogger

I remember when I first started trying to make money online. I dove headfirst into affiliate marketing, thinking it was a guaranteed path to riches. Let’s just say I learned a lot of lessons the hard way – mostly about what not to do.

I was promoting products I didn’t fully understand, spamming links everywhere, and alienating anyone who might have been interested. It was a mess. But that “mess” actually led me to something amazing: staring my very own blog.

It was after that initial stumble that I realized I needed a platform, a place to genuinely connect with people and share valuable information. And that’s how my blog was born.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve seen firsthand how blogging can be a truly lucrative career. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, that’s for sure. It takes real hard work, smart strategies, and a whole lot of consistency. But the potential to earn over $200k a year? Absolutely. It’s not a myth.

What’s so great about blogging, though, is that it’s not just about the money. It’s about creating something you’re passionate about and building a community around it.

Successful bloggers are those who create content that resonates with people. They build a loyal following by consistently showing up, engaging with their readers, and truly caring about what they have to say.

And how do they make money? It’s about diversifying their income streams. Think ads, sponsorships with brands they genuinely believe in, strategic affiliate marketing (done the right way!), and even creating and selling their products or services.

Just to be clear with you, reaching a six-figure income with a blog doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and dedication. But the rewards are so worth it. Imagine:

• Passive income streams: Earning money even while you sleep or take a vacation.
• Flexible work arrangements: Being your own boss and setting your own hours.
• Creative freedom: Writing about what you love and expressing your unique voice.
• Opportunities for personal branding: Building a name for yourself and becoming an expert in your field.

The bloggers who thrive are the ones who diversify. Take a travel blogger, for example. They might earn money through sponsored trips, affiliate links to travel gear, and selling their detailed travel guides. By combining these different income streams, reaching that $200k mark becomes much more attainable.

The real secret to success in blogging? It’s all about finding your niche—that specific area of interest that you’re passionate about—and deeply understanding your audience. Who are they? What are their needs and interests?

By consistently providing valuable content that resonates with them, blogging can truly transform into a profitable and fulfilling career. It’s one of those jobs that can offer both financial reward and personal satisfaction in today’s digital world.

Thinking about starting your blog? Why not grab my free 7-day email course on how to do it the right way? Trust me, I’ve made plenty of mistakes on my blogging journey, and this course is packed with tips to help you avoid the same ones. It’s free, so why not give it a try?

5. Private Family Estate Agent: Luxury Service

Imagine a job where you’re entrusted with managing sprawling estates, coordinating staff, and ensuring everything runs like clockwork for some seriously wealthy families.

That’s the world of a private family estate agent, and it’s a world that can come with a hefty paycheck—often well over $200,000 a year.

Think of it as being a personal CEO for someone’s entire property portfolio. These agents aren’t just showing houses; they’re overseeing multiple properties, managing budgets, and catering to very specific (and often high-maintenance) client needs.

Discretion is paramount in this role. You’re dealing with sensitive information and valuable assets, so confidentiality is key.

Juggling multiple properties, managing household staff, and anticipating every possible need requires exceptional organizational skills. It’s a demanding job, but it’s also incredibly rewarding for the right person.

But how do you even break into this exclusive world? Networking is crucial. Building a solid reputation within affluent circles is essential. This often means attending high-end events, making connections within the luxury real estate market, and cultivating relationships with the right people.

Many agents start in more accessible markets—like Baltimore, where the median home price is around $234,990—gaining valuable experience before moving on to more prestigious locations. This is where they build their network and prove their capabilities.

Private family estate agents can earn $200,000 or more annually. The compensation typically includes a competitive base salary, performance-based bonuses, and often some pretty sweet travel perks.

Imagine managing a portfolio of properties in places like Lake Worth, Florida, where homes range from $850,000 to nearly $9 million. The earning potential in such markets is significant.

6. Editor/Proofreader

So, editing and proofreading… probably didn’t come to mind when you thought of high-paying jobs, right? But here’s a little secret: top-tier editors can rake in over $200,000 a year. Seriously! It’s one of those surprisingly well-paying jobs that often lets you work from the comfort of your own home.

Now, not all editors are pulling in that kind of cash. The real money is in specializing. Think legal documents, medical journals, or complex technical manuals. These specialized editors have an eagle eye for detail and a deep understanding of their subject matter.

They’re the ones who take dense, complicated texts and turn them into clear, concise, and effective communication. They’re the unsung heroes of clear communication.

But how do you get to that level? Honestly, the right training can make all the difference.

That’s why I always recommend the Proofread Anywhere programs—they’re specifically designed for beginners and advanced proofreaders who want to sharpen their skills and land real clients.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up, these courses teach you everything you need to know, from accuracy and efficiency to finding high-paying gigs.

Ready to take the leap? This could be your golden ticket to becoming a sought-after proofreader.

To boost your earning potential, here are a few things to focus on:

• Become an expert in a specific field: Mastering a niche like law, medicine, or finance is where the big bucks are.
• Get organized: Developing strong project management skills will help you handle multiple projects and meet deadlines efficiently.
• Show off your work: Building a portfolio of impressive clients and projects is crucial for attracting new opportunities.
• Offer more than just editing: Expanding your services to include things like content strategy can make you even more valuable (and increase your income).

One of the best perks of this career is the flexibility it offers. Many editors work remotely, which is a huge plus for anyone looking for work-from-home opportunities.

With dedication, skill, and a passion for language, you can build a thriving career and make a great living doing something you love.

7. Cloud Architect

One career path that’s been popping up more and more is cloud architecture. These are the folks who design and build those complex cloud solutions that are essential for pretty much every business these days. Think of them as the master builders of the digital world.

And these skills are seriously in demand. I’m talking about companies like Boomi where cloud architects can pull in anywhere from $155K to $227K annually. That includes commissions, which shows how much companies value this expertise.

So, what kind of skills are we talking about? Well, it’s not just about knowing your way around a computer. Cloud architects need a deep understanding of a few key areas:

• They need to be fluent in cloud technologies, API management, and Kubernetes (which is basically a way to manage lots of different applications at once).
• Networking and IP address management are also crucial—think of it as knowing how all the different parts of the internet talk to each other.
• Experience with high-availability and elastic scaling applications is a must. This means building systems that can handle huge spikes in traffic without crashing.
• And finally, they need to be experts at deploying APIs at scale—making sure different software programs can communicate seamlessly.

These roles often look for skills in solution engineering, domain expertise, and even some field evangelism (which means getting out there and spreading the word about their technology).

With cloud security becoming more critical than ever, cloud architects are highly sought after.

So, if you’re tech-savvy, enjoy a good challenge, and are looking for a career that can lead to a seriously impressive six-figure salary, jumping into the cloud industry could be a fantastic move.

8. Video Editor

It’s not just a hobby anymore—it’s a serious career path with some serious earning potential. I’m talking over $200,000 a year for those who reach the top of their game. It might sound unbelievable, but it’s true.

No, I am not talking about editing cat videos on YouTube (though no judgment if you are!). It’s the kind of video editor who can take raw footage and weave it into a compelling story that grabs your attention from the first second. That kind of skill is in high demand, and it pays very well.

So, how do you get to that level? It’s a combination of things:

• Developing your creative eye: You need to have a knack for storytelling and visual composition. It’s about more than just cutting clips together; it’s about creating an experience.
• Mastering the tools of the trade: Knowing your way around professional video editing software (like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Capcut) is essential. The better you are with the software, the more you can do, and the more valuable you become.
• Building a killer portfolio: This is your resume. Showcasing your best work—even if it’s personal projects at first—is crucial for landing those top-tier gigs.
• Networking: Connecting with people in the industry—whether it’s through online communities, industry events, or even reaching out to editors you admire—can open doors to amazing opportunities.

It takes dedication and hard work, just like any worthwhile career. But the payoff can be huge—not just financially, but also in terms of creative fulfillment.

9. Deep Sea Diver

I bet you didn’t see this one coming, huh? It reminds me of an old friend of mine who was a deep sea diver—but on the freelance side of things.

Why freelance, you ask? Simple: the pay is absolutely wild. We’re talking five figures for a single trip! His routine was something else.

He’d take on four or five jobs in a month and then kick back for a few months to relax. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?

But before you start picturing yourself living that life, there’s a catch.The reason the pay is so high? It’s because the risks are just as intense.

Oh, and if you’re curious about what divers actually do down there, it’s pretty fascinating. Most of them are commercial divers handling repairs, maintenance, or even underwater welding. Some do underwater painting and it is a real thing.
It’s not your typical 9-to-5, that’s for sure.

So, what does it take to become one of these underwater experts? It’s not a walk in the park (or a swim in the pool, for that matter). The training is intense.

Aspiring deep sea divers go through rigorous programs where they learn all sorts of specialized diving techniques, how to use complex equipment, and even skills like underwater welding and construction.

It’s tough, no doubt, but it prepares them for the demanding work they’ll face in industries like offshore oil and gas, as well as other complex underwater projects.

But here’s the payoff: deep sea divers are compensated handsomely for their skills and the risks they take. Their base salary is already quite high, and it only increases with experience.

Plus, they often receive bonuses for completing especially difficult projects or working in particularly harsh conditions. Many companies also offer solid benefits packages, including health insurance and retirement plans. This all combines to make deep sea diving one of the highest-earning professions out there.

Breaking Into High-Paying Careers: Essential Steps

Landing a well-paying job isn’t always a walk in the park—let’s be honest. It takes a solid plan and some serious effort. But it’s definitely achievable, and I want to share some practical steps that can help you get there.

First things first: never stop learning. The job market is constantly evolving, so staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Find a field that genuinely excites you and dive deep.

Become an expert in it. For example, if you’re eyeing a career in investment banking, having a background in engineering can really give you an edge. It shows you have the analytical skills and problem-solving abilities they’re looking for.

Building a strong network is also essential. Think of it as expanding your circle of opportunities. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with people in your field can open doors you never even knew existed. It’s worth remembering that competition for high-paying jobs is fierce.

Beyond networking, there are a few other key things to focus on. Developing specialized skills directly relevant to your chosen field is a must.

Think about gaining practical experience through internships or personal projects—this real-world experience is invaluable. It’s also important to stay adaptable and keep up with the latest industry trends.

One last but very important thing: chasing a high salary shouldn’t be your only goal. It’s worth noting that even in high-paying fields like banking, job satisfaction isn’t always sky-high. It’s crucial to find a balance between earning potential and your own personal values and goals.

Ultimately, with hard work, a smart strategy, and a focus on what truly matters to you, you can climb the ladder in competitive fields like investment banking—or any other high-paying career you set your sights on.

FAQ – Jobs That Make $200k a Year

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