The 10 Best Jobs for the Future

When choosing a career path, it’s crucial to select a field that’s primed for growth rather than decline. In 2026, understanding which professions are on the rise can help you make informed decisions about your future.

To assist you in identifying professions with promising job prospects, we’ve compiled a list of the ten best jobs for the future, along with essential tips for navigating your career journey.

Key Takeaways

• The top three jobs for the future are wind turbine service technician, nurse practitioner, and information security analyst.

• All ten of the best jobs listed project an employment growth rate of at least 21% through 2031.

• When selecting a future career, consider factors such as projected job growth, average salary, and educational requirements.

The 10 Best Jobs for the Future

1. Wind Turbine Service Technician

   Average Yearly Salary: $41,456

   The growing emphasis on clean and renewable energy is increasing the demand for skilled professionals who can install and maintain wind turbines. These technicians play a vital role in ensuring the functionality and efficiency of these energy sources as they age.

   Wind turbine technicians conduct inspections and repairs both onshore and offshore, with training often available through technical schools or community colleges.

   Job outlook: Wind turbine service technician positions are projected to grow by 44% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Wind Turbine Service Technician jobs near me

2. Nurse Practitioner

   Average Yearly Salary: $94,000

   Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who possess additional training, typically through a master’s degree, allowing them greater autonomy in patient care. They can diagnose, treat, and manage patient care, including prescribing medications.

   This profession is expanding rapidly due to the increasing demand for healthcare services stemming from an aging population and improved access to health insurance.

   Job outlook: Nurse practitioner roles are projected to grow by 40% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Nurse Practitioner jobs near me

3. Information Security Analyst

   Average Yearly Salary: $86,000

   With the rising reliance on digital platforms and the increase in remote work, organizations need experts to safeguard their data. Information security analysts protect sensitive company and customer information from various threats, requiring deep knowledge of IT systems.

   Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information assurance, or a related field.

   Job outlook: Information security analyst positions are projected to grow by 35% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Information Security Analyst jobs near me

4. Statistician

   Average Yearly Salary: $80,000

   As businesses increasingly rely on data for decision-making, statisticians are essential for collecting and analyzing data. Many organizations prefer candidates with a master’s degree in statistics or mathematics, although strong technical skills can compensate for a lack of advanced degrees.

   Job outlook: Statistician roles are projected to grow by 31% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Statistician jobs near me

5. Physical Therapist Assistant

   Average Yearly Salary: $52,000

   Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) implement treatment plans under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. They guide patients through exercises and provide therapeutic support in various settings, including clinics and home health.

   PTAs typically require an associate degree from an accredited program, available through many community colleges.

   Job outlook: Physical therapist assistant positions are projected to grow by 31% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Physical Therapist Assistant jobs near me

6. Medical and Health Services Manager

   Average Yearly Salary: $77,000

   Medical and health services managers oversee healthcare facilities and services, handling various administrative tasks from staffing to budgeting. They often need a master’s degree in healthcare administration or a related field for higher-level positions.

   Job outlook: Medical and health services manager roles are projected to grow by 28% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Medical and Health Services Manager jobs near me

7. Physician Assistant

   Average Yearly Salary: $126,000

   Physician assistants (PAs) work under the supervision of medical doctors, performing many of the same duties, including diagnosing and treating illnesses. PAs are in high demand, especially in primary care settings.

   Job outlook: Physician assistant roles are projected to grow by 28% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Physician Assistant jobs near me

8. Logistician

   Average Yearly Salary: $71,000

   Logisticians manage supply chain processes to ensure timely and efficient delivery of products. As supply chains become more complex, the demand for professionals in this field is expected to rise.

   A bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or business is typically required, though some employers consider candidates with associate degrees.

   Job outlook: Logistician positions are projected to grow by 28% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Logistician jobs near me

9. Home Health and Personal Care Aide

   Average Yearly Salary: $24,000

   With an aging population, the demand for home health and personal care aides is on the rise. These aides provide essential in-home care for individuals with disabilities or those recovering from illness.

   Job outlook: Home health and personal care aide roles are projected to grow by 25% through 2031, according to the BLS.

   Find Home Health and Personal Care Aide jobs near me

10. Speech-Language Pathologist

    Average Yearly Salary: $68,000

    Speech-language pathologists assess and treat communication disorders in patients of all ages. They require at least a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and clinical fellowship to practice.

    Job outlook: Speech-language pathologist positions are projected to grow by 21% through 2031, according to the BLS.

    Find Speech-Language Pathologist jobs near me

What to Look for When Choosing a Job for the Future

When evaluating the stability of a career, consider the following key factors:

1. Projected Employment Growth

   The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides reports on the anticipated growth of various industries and occupations over the next several years. Understanding these trends can give insight into future job availability.

2. Average Salary

   Researching the average annual salary for your chosen profession can help ensure it aligns with your financial aspirations. It’s essential to balance your career choice with your lifestyle goals.

3. Educational Requirements

   Evaluate whether the time and financial investment required for education will yield satisfactory returns. Opt for paths that offer a good balance between educational investment and potential salary benefits.

Best Jobs For The Future FAQs

1. Which jobs will disappear by 2030?

   Jobs like travel agents, drivers, cashiers, and more are expected to decline by 2030. As technologies like AI and automation advance, businesses are likely to replace human workers with these systems for efficiency.

   Here are some jobs at high risk of automation (over 95% risk):

   • Food Science Technician (97%)

   • Procurement Clerk (97%)

   • Library Technician (97%)

   • Cargo and Freight Agent (97%)

   • Tax Preparer (97%)

   • Real Estate Broker (96%)

   • Counter and Rental Clerk (96%)

   • Agricultural Inspector (96%)

   • Manicurist (96%)

   • Correspondence Clerk (96%)

   While these risks are concerning, automation may also eliminate monotonous and repetitive jobs, potentially leading to new opportunities.

2. What will work look like in the future?

   Future work environments will be more flexible and technology-driven. Current trends indicate that millennials and Gen Z will significantly influence the workforce.

   Some expected changes include:

   • Increased Flexibility: The gig economy is set to expand, with younger generations viewing flexibility as essential rather than a perk.

   • Emphasis on Education: As automation increases, the need for advanced educational qualifications will grow, particularly in STEM fields.

   • Technological Integration: AI and advanced technologies will be integrated into daily tasks, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

   The future workforce will be shaped by technology, and workers’ expectations will influence job structures.

3. What high-paying jobs will be in demand in the future?

   Numerous high-paying jobs are anticipated to be in demand. Based on our list, here are the top jobs along with their projected growth rates:

   • Nurse Practitioner (52.2%)

   • Statistician (35.4%)

   • Physical Therapist Assistant (35.4%)

   • Information Security Analyst (33.3%)

   • Home Health and Personal Care Aide (32.6%)

   • Medical and Health Services Manager (32.5%)

   • Physician Assistant (31%)

   • Logistician (29.5%)

   • Speech-Language Pathologist (28.7%)

   With these roles showing high growth rates, they are expected to remain in demand moving forward.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering your career options—whether you are entering the workforce for the first time or seeking a change after years in the same industry—it’s wise to assess which professions will offer the best long-term opportunities.

The job market is constantly evolving, and many careers that were stable decades ago may no longer offer the same prospects today. Conversely, new industries are emerging that didn’t even exist a generation ago.

While the future is unpredictable, researching current trends can help you choose a career path that ensures both job security and financial stability for years to come.

References

Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” Accessed on September 16, 2022.

Author

Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.