9 High-Paying Jobs With The Most Time Off in 2026

Finding a high-paying job that also offers generous time off may seem like a rare gem in today’s labor market. However, several professions combine substantial salaries with ample vacation time, making them attractive options for job seekers in 2026.

If you’re exploring career opportunities that strike the perfect balance between financial reward and work-life balance, you’ve come to the right place. Below are nine high-paying jobs that provide significant time off.

Key Takeaways

• The top three high-paying jobs offering the most time off are orthodontist, occupational therapist, and airline pilot.

• Many high-paying roles provide increased vacation time as employees gain tenure.

• Most of the high-paying positions with substantial time off require at least a bachelor’s degree or higher.

9 High-Paying Jobs With The Most Time Off

1. Dietitian

   Average Annual Salary: $55,022
   Job Openings: 1,665
   Job Outlook: Dietitian jobs are projected to grow by 11% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Two weeks vacation and two weeks sick leave

   Dietitians play a crucial role in helping individuals improve their eating habits, often addressing the physical consequences of poor nutrition. They work with clients to create tailored dietary plans, tracking progress and adjusting as necessary. This profession typically allows for a sustainable work-life balance, translating to more vacation time compared to traditional medical roles.

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2. Occupational Therapist

   Average Annual Salary: $72,451
   Job Openings: 58,988
   Job Outlook: Occupational therapist jobs are projected to grow by 17% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Two weeks or more, depending on experience

   Occupational therapists support individuals recovering skills lost due to physical or mental health conditions. Working alongside other rehabilitation professionals, they help patients regain independence and improve their quality of life. This rewarding field not only offers competitive salaries but also flexible vacation options based on experience and employer policies.

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3. Social Media Manager

   Average Annual Salary: $58,105
   Job Openings: 66,429
   Job Outlook: Social media manager jobs are projected to grow by 10% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Three weeks or more

   In a world dominated by digital engagement, social media managers are essential for businesses looking to enhance their online presence. Their responsibilities include content strategy, analytics, and community management. Many full-time social media managers enjoy significant vacation time, reflecting the flexibility of remote work arrangements.

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4. Civil Engineer

   Average Annual Salary: $70,785
   Job Openings: 21,181
   Job Outlook: Civil engineer jobs are projected to grow by 8% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Approximately three weeks depending on experience

   Civil engineers are responsible for overseeing construction projects from planning through execution. They ensure projects are completed safely and efficiently. With competitive salaries and a reasonable work-life balance, civil engineers typically receive around three weeks of vacation time annually, depending on their level of experience.

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5. School Principal

   Average Annual Salary: $99,397
   Job Openings: 36,016
   Job Outlook: School principal jobs are projected to grow by 8% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Four weeks per year

   School principals oversee the management of educational institutions, ensuring a safe and productive environment for both students and staff. While they may not have the entire summer off, they typically enjoy more vacation time than many other professions, averaging four weeks per year.

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6. Orthodontist

   Average Annual Salary: $214,878
   Job Openings: 7,044
   Job Outlook: Orthodontist jobs are projected to grow by 8% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Around six weeks per year

   Orthodontists specialize in correcting teeth and jaw irregularities. They analyze patients’ dental history and develop treatment plans, fostering strong relationships with their clients. This lucrative profession often allows for substantial vacation time, averaging around six weeks annually.

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7. College Professor

   Average Annual Salary: $68,121
   Job Openings: 17,422
   Job Outlook: College professor jobs are projected to grow by 12% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Three weeks to three months per year

   College professors play a vital role in higher education, delivering lectures and conducting research in their fields. They often enjoy flexible schedules and considerable time off, ranging from three weeks to several months depending on their institution and contract.

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8. School Psychologist

   Average Annual Salary: $67,542
   Job Openings: 14,391
   Job Outlook: School psychologist jobs are projected to grow by 11% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: Two months off in the summer, plus winter and spring breaks

   School psychologists support students through various challenges, providing guidance and counseling. Their work is not only impactful but also offers considerable time off during school breaks, making it an attractive career choice for those passionate about education and mental health.

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9. Airline Pilot

   Average Annual Salary: $67,120
   Job Openings: 2,425
   Job Outlook: Airline pilot jobs are projected to grow by 13% through 2030, according to the BLS.
   Average Time Off: 9 to 15 days per month, totaling 108 to 180 days per year

   Airline pilots are responsible for the safety and operation of flights, requiring extensive training and certification. While the path to becoming a pilot is rigorous, the rewards include a substantial salary and considerable time off, with pilots enjoying 9 to 15 days off each month, translating to several months of vacation annually.

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High-Paying Jobs With the Most Time Off FAQ

1. Can you earn a high salary and still get a lot of time off?

   Yes, it is possible to earn a high salary while enjoying a significant amount of time off. Professions such as dietitian, social media manager, and school principal exemplify this balance, although they often require advanced qualifications and experience.

2. What is the average number of PTO days someone gets?

   The average American worker receives about 10 days of paid vacation per year. This figure is derived from the average PTO statistics compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” Accessed on September 7, 2022.

Author

Sky Ariella

Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.