Short Careers That Pay Well Without a 30-Year Commitment
You don’t need a four-decade career to earn six figures. Many jobs pay well long before the typical retirement age. Some of the best-paying careers take less than 10, 20, or 30 years to peak, and a few offer fast income with early burnout.
This gallery highlights short careers that pay $100K or more without locking you into a lifetime of work.
You don’t need 40 years to hit six figures.
👉 Click or scroll through the gallery to see which careers pay off faster than most.
Table of Contents
These Short Careers Still Pay Big
Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we found jobs that pay $100K or more without taking a lifetime to get there.
These short careers are grouped into 10-year, 20-year, and 30-year paths, plus a few that pay well but burn out fast.
Also, let’s be clear. Paying well is a relative phrase. We are using $100k as the benchmark for well-paying jobs. It is more than twice the average person’s income.
This article isn’t a debate about “well paying”. It’s an article about careers that pay higher than other jobs, and in a shorter amount of time.
👉 Keep going to see which short careers actually pay off.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 10 Years: Construction Manager
Construction managers earn a median salary of $106,980, and many reach six figures in under 10 years by rising through the trades or project coordination roles. Certifications help, but experience is king.
Managing big commercial or infrastructure projects can pay off quickly and lead to early exit if you build smart.
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Short Careers That Pay Well in 10 Years: Software Engineer
Software engineers have a median salary of $133,080, and the top tier can earn over $325,000 with bonuses and stock. Many reach six figures in just a few years, especially at tech companies or startups.
It’s a job that rewards skill, not tenure, and a lot of engineers exit or shift roles after their first big equity payout.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 10 Years: Real Estate Broker
The BLS lists the median broker salary at $72,280, but top performers in high-value markets regularly hit $100K+. With no degree required, you can start selling quickly and scale based on effort and network.
For driven self-starters, six figures is achievable in just a few years, especially with repeat clients and luxury listings.
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Short Careers That Pay Well in 10 Years: Nuclear Medicine Technologist
One of the fastest-growing high-paying jobs in healthcare, nuclear medicine techs saw their average salary jump 20.2% from $88,576 in 2022 to $106,475 in 2024. Most programs take under two years, and demand continues to grow in hospitals and imaging centers.
It’s one of the few medical careers where you can start fast and earn well without a decade of school.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 10 Years: Commercial Pilot
Commercial pilots earn a median salary of $122,670, and many reach six figures before their tenth year. Pay ramps up fast with seniority, especially for major carriers.
Some pilots step away early because of FAA limits or the demanding travel lifestyle. If you’re looking for a job that pays big without decades of delay, this one clears the runway fast.
We also made this related Video: 20 Jobs That Pay $100K Without a Degree (And They’re Hiring Now)
Short Careers That Pay Well in 20 Years: Physician Assistant
Physician assistants earn a median salary of $133,260, and most reach that level shortly after completing their training, which takes about 7–9 years. Over a 20-year career, many move into specialized areas or independent practices with even higher earning potential.
It’s one of the few medical careers where you can get started faster, and earn like a doctor without becoming one.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 20 Years: Military Officer
Military officers often reach six-figure compensation through a mix of base pay, housing allowances, and specialty bonuses. Many retire after 20 years of active service with full pension and lifelong benefits.
Roles in tech, aviation, intelligence, and leadership track even higher in pay. It’s a demanding path, but one that offers strong income and early exit compared to civilian careers.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 20 Years: Electrician with Own Business
Electricians earn a median of $62,350, but those who build their own business can pass $100K with a solid client base and steady work. Over 15–20 years, referrals and repeat jobs turn this into a highly profitable trade.
Business ownership adds flexibility and higher margins compared to working under a contractor. It’s a hands-on career that can lead to serious income.
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Short Careers That Pay Well in 20 Years: Public School Teacher (High School)
High school teachers earn around $64,580, but in high-paying districts, salaries can exceed $100K with experience, certifications, and advanced degrees. Structured pay scales reward teachers who stay in the system long-term.
The average teacher tenure in the U.S. is 14 years, but many reach peak earnings in their second decade. It’s a steady, high-impact career that pays better with time.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 20 Years: Firefighter
The median salary is $59,530, but in big cities with hazard pay and overtime, firefighters can easily top six figures. Promotions to captain or inspector roles boost pay even more.
Many firefighters hit their peak earnings in years 15–20 and shift into less physically demanding positions without giving up the income.
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Short Careers That Pay Well in 30 Years: K–12 School Principal
School principals earn around $104,000, with salaries increasing based on school size, district, and years of experience. Many reach top pay after 25–30 years in education, including time spent teaching and leading.
The career path requires dedication and advanced degrees but delivers steady income growth. For educators who stay the course, it’s one of the most stable and rewarding tracks in public service.
Short Careers That Pay Well in 30 Years: College Professor (Tenured)
Postsecondary teachers earn a median of $83,980, but professors in law, business, and science fields often surpass $100K, especially once tenured.
It’s a long academic road, but once tenure is locked in, the job brings stability, high pay, and academic freedom. Many professors build side income through consulting or publishing as well.
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Short Careers That Pay Well in 30 Years: Unionized Utility Worker
Utility workers, especially linemen and substation technicians, often break into six-figure pay with union contracts, overtime, and night shift bonuses. These jobs reward consistency and loyalty over time.
It’s one of the few blue-collar careers where long tenure reliably leads to strong pay and retirement security.
Jobs That Pay Well but Burn You Out: ER Doctor
Emergency physicians often earn $239,000 or more, but very few last in this role long-term. Long shifts, sleep disruption, and emotional overload from life-and-death decisions take a heavy toll.
Many leave the ER within 10–15 years, either to switch specialties or reduce hours. The money’s great, but you pay for it with stress.
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Jobs That Pay Well but Burn You Out: Investment Banker
Most investment bankers clear six figures early, and some bring in big bonuses within their first few years. Entry-level roles can exceed $100,000, but they come with 80-hour weeks, unpredictable schedules, and brutal competition.
Many exit the field before age 40, switching to roles with more life and less grind. It’s a sprint, not a marathon.
Jobs That Pay Well but Burn You Out: Management Consultant
Management consultants average over $100,000, especially at major firms or in specialized industries. But that paycheck comes with a heavy cost: nonstop travel, client deadlines, and pressure to perform.
It’s common to burn out within 8–10 years and shift into internal corporate roles. The job is fast-paced, rewarding, and draining.
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Jobs That Pay Well but Burn You Out: Startup Founder
Founders of successful startups can make huge money, sometimes millions. But the hours are brutal, the stress is constant, and the stakes are personal.
Most founders either burn out or sell out within a decade, even when things go well. It’s all-in for a few intense years, then time to cash out or tap out.
Short Jobs, Big Payoffs
You don’t need a long career to hit big numbers. Some jobs pay six figures fast, others give you just enough time to build and bounce. The key is working smart, not forever.
These roles prove you can earn well without burning out or waiting decades. Time is your most valuable asset, spend it like it matters.
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