The 15 Best Jobs for People Who Prefer Working Alone (With Salaries)

For those who thrive in solitude and possess a strong sense of independence, working alone can be a highly efficient and rewarding experience. The job market in 2026 offers a variety of careers that allow for this kind of autonomy. These roles not only feature appealing salaries but also provide excellent benefits and perks, ranging from essential transportation positions to creative and artistic endeavors. Let’s explore the top 15 best jobs for individuals who enjoy working independently.

Key Takeaways:

• The top three jobs for those who prefer solitary work are actuary, research scientist, and zoologist.

• Working alone helps eliminate distractions, enhancing productivity.

• Introverts may find increased comfort and confidence in independent roles, allowing them to flourish without the pressures of group dynamics.

The Top 15 Best Jobs for People Who Prefer Working Alone

1. Actuary

   Average Salary: $84,751 per year
   Jobs Available: 14,034
   Job Growth Rate: 20%

   Actuaries are analytical professionals who use their expertise in mathematics to assess risk in financial activities. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working alone, as actuaries typically analyze data independently, often in remote settings. With an average hourly rate of $40.75, most actuaries hold at least a bachelor’s degree, with 83.1% entering the field with this level of education.

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2. Research Scientist

   Average Salary: $80,226 per year
   Jobs Available: 103,802
   Job Growth Rate: 8%

   As a research scientist, you will immerse yourself in data collection and analysis, allowing for deep, independent thought. Research scientists are crucial in various fields, including natural, medical, and environmental sciences, and can expect to earn an average of $38.57 per hour. Approximately 51.7% hold a bachelor’s degree, while others may have master’s or doctorate degrees.

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3. Zoologist

   Average Salary: $67,697 per year
   Jobs Available: 1,709
   Job Growth Rate: 5%

   As a zoologist, you’ll spend considerable time in nature, studying wildlife and their ecosystems. This role often involves solitary research and data collection, making it a great fit for those who prefer working alone. The average zoologist earns about $29 per hour, with 64.3% holding a bachelor’s degree and 28.6% having a master’s degree.

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4. Network Administrator

   Average Salary: $66,701 per year
   Jobs Available: 119,896
   Job Growth Rate: 5%

   Network administrators are essential for managing IT systems and troubleshooting independently. This role frequently allows for remote work, making it ideal for those who prefer solitude. The hourly wage averages $32.07, with many in the field (30%) entering with only an associate’s degree, while 55.1% hold a bachelor’s degree.

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5. Commercial Truck Driver

   Average Salary: $62,520 per year
   Jobs Available: 288,962
   Job Growth Rate: 5%

   For those who prefer solitude on the road, commercial truck driving offers an independent work environment. You’ll be responsible for transporting goods, allowing for significant time alone. While 35.3% of drivers only require a high school diploma, obtaining a CDL is essential.

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6. Plumber

   Average Salary: $56,696 per year
   Jobs Available: 9,055
   Job Growth Rate: 14%

   Plumbers often work independently, relying on their skills to install and repair systems. This role is in high demand, with an average hourly wage of $27.26. Most plumbers (53.1%) enter the field with only a high school diploma, although technical training is beneficial.

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7. Postal Carrier

   Average Salary: $53,129 per year
   Jobs Available: 1,101
   Job Growth Rate: -21%

   Postal carriers enjoy significant independence as they handle sorting and delivery tasks solo. Although the job offers a respectable salary of $25.54 per hour, the declining job growth rate poses challenges. Education requirements vary, with many holding at least a bachelor’s degree.

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8. Copywriter

   Average Salary: $50,804 per year
   Jobs Available: 28,203
   Job Growth Rate: 7%

   Copywriters can work remotely, making it a flexible job option. This role involves producing content for various formats and requires strong writing skills. With an average wage of $24.43 per hour, most copywriters (79.5%) have a bachelor’s degree.

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9. Electrician

   Average Salary: $49,755 per year
   Jobs Available: 9,368
   Job Growth Rate: 10%

   Electricians often work independently on installations and repairs, providing a sense of autonomy on the job. The average hourly wage is $23.92, and many electricians (32.2%) enter the field with a high school diploma, although technical training is advised.

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10. Photographer

    Average Salary: $49,482 per year
    Jobs Available: 8,300
    Job Growth Rate: -6%

    Photographers can enjoy the freedom of working alone in various environments, capturing images for diverse purposes. Although the average wage is around $23 per hour, the career has a steep learning curve and competitive job market.

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11. Gardener

    Average Salary: $47,657 per year
    Jobs Available: 1,302
    Job Growth Rate: 9%

    Gardeners work independently, nurturing plants and maintaining outdoor spaces. This role is therapeutic and rewarding, with an average hourly wage of $22.91. Many gardeners (27.2%) start with only a high school diploma, though a background in plant science is beneficial.

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12. Video Editor

    Average Salary: $46,954 per year
    Jobs Available: 11,796
    Job Growth Rate: 11%

    Video editors work independently to compile and refine video content, making it a perfect solitary role. Average earnings are around $22.57 per hour, and most (73.3%) have a bachelor’s degree.

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13. Graphic Designer

    Average Salary: $45,772 per year
    Jobs Available: 43,709
    Job Growth Rate: 3%

    Graphic designers often work alone, using their creativity to produce compelling visual content. On average, they earn $22 per hour, and a significant 68.2% have a bachelor’s degree.

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14. Blogger

    Average Salary: $41,048 per year
    Jobs Available: 205
    Job Growth Rate: 3%

    Bloggers enjoy the freedom to write independently, often working remotely and flexibly. The average wage is $20 per hour, with most (77.9%) requiring a bachelor’s degree for entry into the field.

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15. Auto Mechanic

    Average Salary: $36,234 per year
    Jobs Available: 65,854
    Job Growth Rate: -1%

    Auto mechanics typically work independently, diagnosing and repairing vehicles. With an average hourly wage of $17.42, many enter the field with just a high school diploma, making it an accessible career choice.

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Benefits of Working Alone

Working alone can offer several benefits, particularly for individuals who prefer solitude. Here are some key advantages:

• Increased Productivity: Many individuals find they are more productive when working alone, as solitude allows for focused work without interruptions.

• Fewer Distractions: Working independently minimizes distractions, enabling better concentration and efficiency.

• Greater Flexibility: Independent work often allows for more flexible scheduling, permitting you to choose when and where you work.

• Full Credit for Work: Working alone means you receive complete recognition for your contributions, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in your work.

• Personalized Workspace: Independent roles often permit the opportunity to customize your work environment, contributing to comfort and satisfaction.

While not all jobs will provide every benefit mentioned, this list focuses on positions that meet one or more of these criteria, offering a diverse range of options across various industries.

FAQ: Jobs for People Who Prefer Working Alone

1. Are there jobs that allow you to work alone?

   Yes, there are many jobs that provide the opportunity to work independently. Careers such as copywriting, commercial truck driving, and postal service work often allow for significant independence. While most roles may involve some interaction, remote positions enable you to minimize distractions.

2. Is it OK to work alone?

   Yes, working alone is perfectly acceptable. Many individuals find that working independently enhances their mental well-being and overall performance, particularly if they are easily distracted in traditional office environments.

Final Thoughts

Embracing solitary work can be highly beneficial for focus and productivity. The diverse career options outlined here indicate that many fields offer opportunities for those who prefer to work alone, often without the need for extensive formal education.

While we highlighted the top 15 jobs that provide attractive salaries for independent work, there are countless other remote and solitary opportunities in today’s job market. Take the time to explore and find the right fit for you!

Author

Jack Flynn

Jack Flynn is a writer for Zippia. In his professional career he’s written over 100 research papers, articles and blog posts. Some of his most popular published works include his writing about economic terms and research into job classifications. Jack received his BS from Hampshire College.