Fun Jobs That Pay Well Without a Degree

Without a degree, you can find enjoyable jobs that pay well. Is it possible to find enjoyable fun jobs that pay well without a college degree? The simple answer is YES. Just as there are tens of low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree, there are well-paying careers where you can have fun doing what you love and get paid to do it. Some of these jobs can pay up to $150,000 per year. In addition to earning a good living, most of these jobs allow you to maintain a healthy work-life balance, be happy, and spend quality time with friends and family.

In 2021, there will be fun jobs that pay well without a degree. According to the most recent data, approximately 56% of Americans aged 24 to 64 do not have a college degree. That begs the question, are there any enjoyable jobs they can do without a degree while still earning a good wage? We’ve highlighted a few fun jobs that pay well without requiring a college degree below.

Fun Jobs That Don’t Require A Degree But Pay Well

In today’s job market, not having a college diploma does not have to be a disadvantage. There are numerous opportunities for enjoyable jobs that do not require a degree. Here is a list of 26 jobs that do not require a degree:

1. Make-up Artists (Theatrical & Performance)

This is one of the quick certifications that pays well, with salaries as high as $100,000 per year. Makeup artists in the field of theatre and performance apply makeup to actors to reflect the setting, period, and situation of the roles they are set to play. You can work as a makeup artist for video and motion picture companies, performing arts companies, and personal care service providers.

According to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, theatrical and performance, makeup artists earn an average annual wage of $99,990, with top earners earning more than $157,680. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

2. Disc Jockeys (DJs)

One of the high-paying jobs available with a bachelor’s degree is that of a DJ. While radio and television DJs are required to have an associate or bachelor’s degree, DJs working in nightclubs, weddings, parties, and other events are not. To enjoy working as a DJ, you should have a passion for music and entertainment. While we cannot guarantee that it will be less stressful, you must be willing to work long hours, sometimes overnight.

Estimating how much DJs make is difficult because the pay is dependent on a variety of factors, including the nature of the event and where you will perform. DJs can earn anywhere from $45,000 to $200,000 per year. DJs earn an average salary of $58,370 per year, with top earners earning more than $134,000 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience.

3. Sound Engineering Technicians

Without the invaluable skills of sound engineering technicians, no “showbiz” event can ever be a success. Whether it’s a Broadway show or a political event, these experts are invaluable in ensuring the event’s success. They will set up audio equipment, test microphones, and monitor and operate the equipment during live performances or events. Depending on the job you want and where you want to work, you can become a sound engineering technician with a high school diploma or a college degree.

There are a few postsecondary sound engineering technician programs that last a few months and two-year associate degree programs. The average annual wage for sound engineering technicians is $67,210, with the highest-paid technicians earning more than $119,720. This is one of the low stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

4. Choreographers

Choreographers’ primary responsibility is to create new dance routines and to direct rehearsal performances. They are also capable of directing and staging presentations. There is no formal education requirement to become a choreographer, and most begin as dancers and work their way up the ranks. However, some choreographers choose to further their education by enrolling in colleges and universities for bachelor’s and master’s degrees in dance.

Choreographers in the United States earn an average annual salary of $52,000, with the highest earners earning more than $101,250. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience.

5. Freelance Writers

How can one say that being a freelance writer is one of the enjoyable jobs that pay well? While some freelance writers do it to make ends meet, those who enjoy writing and focus on a subject they are passionate about will have a good time doing it. For example, if you are fascinated by new or advanced technology and enjoy writing, becoming a freelance writer focusing primarily on tech-related topics will not feel like a punishment when you sit down to craft a piece of content.

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This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year. As a freelance writer, you can expect to earn around $50,000 per year on average, but with experience and the ability to deliver on high-paying gigs, you can easily earn $100,000 per year. Here are a few high-paying writing jobs, with some paying as much as $206,000 per year.

6. Freelance Photographers

While you can take photography classes to advance your career, you can also make a good living as a freelance photographer without a college degree. It is, however, critical to take short courses, such as those offered online, to hone your photography skills and learn advanced techniques such as video and photo editing techniques, as well as how to use lighting equipment to enhance the subject’s appearance. You can offer your freelance photography services for the following purposes:

  • Weddings
  • Family portraits
  • Baby photos
  • School events
  • Parties

The field of photography is a thriving industry, and those with a creative eye will always be in high demand. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for photographers is $50,290, with top earners earning more than $86,850. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience.

7. Artists

There is no need for a degree to become an artist because the ability to express one’s creativity or use an innate talent to earn a living is all that is required. Being an artist allows you to work from virtually any location. Some artists work from home studios, while others work from art studios in commercial buildings. An artist can be a painter, a photographer, a sculptor, a calligrapher, an illustrator, a printmaker, or a graphic designer. You can also include voice-over artists on the list because they make a living by using their natural gifts and voice talents.

Artists’ salaries vary, but they can range from $45,000 to $85,000 per year. Established artists, such as voice-over artists who voice movie trailers, earn six-figure and even seven-figure salaries per year. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

8. Massage Therapists

Massage therapists provide massage treatments to clients for relaxation and pain relief. They work in tranquil settings such as spas, fitness centers, franchised clinics, physicians’ offices, or hotels. Massage therapists frequently have flexible schedules and can work as self-employed individuals, where they freelance and serve their clients from the comfort of their own homes. A bachelor’s degree is not required to work as a massage therapist. However, to work as a licensed massage therapist, you must first complete a postsecondary education program.

This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and allows you to do what you enjoy. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience. Massage therapists earn an average annual salary of $47,350, with the highest earners earning more than $79,150.

9. Travel Consultant

Unless an employer prefers someone with additional formal training, you do not need a college degree to become a travel agent. To become a travel agent, you must have a high school diploma and excellent computer and communication skills. Travel agents’ responsibilities include arranging and selling transportation and lodging to customers. They are also involved in deciding on travel destinations, dates, modes of transportation, costs, and necessary accommodations.

You will also describe, plan, and arrange itineraries for travel clients, as well as sell tour packages. It is one of the enjoyable jobs that pay well without a degree, with a mean annual salary of $42,350. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year. Top earners can earn up to $73,360 per year.

10. English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher

While being a teacher can be difficult, especially for those who pursue the profession for monetary reasons and have no passion for it, it is a rewarding career for those who enjoy teaching and take pride in doing so. You have the option of working face to face with learners or students or working online. To become an ESL teacher, most positions do not require a bachelor’s degree, but TEFL certification may be required. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience. According to PayScale, the average annual base salary for ESL teachers is $46,232, with top earners earning nearly $69,000.

11. Cosmetologists and Hairstylists

Being a hairstylist or cosmetologist is another enjoyable job that pays well without requiring a bachelor’s degree. Their responsibilities include hairstyling and providing a variety of beauty care services. While attending college for a degree program is not required, all states require hairstylists and cosmetologists to be licensed. To obtain your license, you must complete a state-approved cosmetology program and pass a state exam. You can earn between $30,000 and $60,000 per year, depending on where you work and your responsibilities. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year. The top earners earn far more than $85,000 per year.

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12. Firefighter

While firefighters do control and extinguish fires, they also respond to non-fire emergencies. In this role, staying in shape is critical because the equipment and gear are heavy and require strength to move around quickly during emergencies. Firefighters save lives every day and are frequently the first to respond to an emergency, arriving many times before the authorities. This career is a good fit for those who are compassionate, strong, and team players. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience. You will be paid to exercise and save lives. How satisfying is that?

Salary: $49,080 on average

Training/Education: Fire academy

13. Stationary Engineer

Working in an industrial environment may not sound appealing, but if you’re mechanically inclined and enjoy fixing things, a position as a stationary engineer could be ideal for you. The majority of stationary engineers work for the government or in institutions such as hospitals or private plants. This position is responsible for the upkeep of industrial equipment such as generators, boilers, and stationary engines. If you enjoy problem-solving and being hands-on, this well-paying field is worth considering.

There are numerous opportunities for overtime and extra training. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

Salary: $59,890

Education/Training: Apprenticeship or on-the-job training

14. Professional Coder

Everyone has a different definition of what it means to have fun. Medical coding may be the career for you if you enjoy organization and numbers. Professional coders are in charge of reviewing patient records, filing insurance claims, and being a healthcare documentation expert. This career requires only certification, and you could be starting your new job in as little as 20 weeks. You will help people daily and experience the excitement of a medical office without the hands-on intensity. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience.

Salary: $38,000 on average

Education/Training: Certification

15. IT Security and Network Technician

Do you like computers? If you can’t stop thinking about technology, IT security may be calling your name. This rewarding job teaches you how to monitor network, application, and operating system security. A technician’s responsibilities include troubleshooting basic network infrastructure, installing wired and wireless networks, and detecting hardware threats. Government buildings, hospitals, and private businesses all require technicians to respond quickly to security breaches.

This is a great career for people who are detail-oriented and have a knack for technology. Technology evolves rapidly, and this job keeps you at the forefront of those changes. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

Salary: Up to $160,000 on average

Education/Training: Certification

16. Elevator Technician

Elevator technicians’ primary responsibilities include maintaining, repairing, inspecting, and installing elevators and parts. Before, during, and after installation, technicians will assess the structural and mechanical integrity of elevators, shafts, and electrical systems. Elevator technicians are frequently employed by private companies and work full-time. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience.

Salary: $59,582 per year on average

17. Delivery Driver

Delivery drivers’ primary responsibilities include loading products onto delivery vehicles for transport and delivery to individuals and businesses. Drivers drive vehicles ranging in size from a compact sedan to a large delivery truck. Delivery drivers frequently work in the private sector, but ride-sharing services have enabled them to work as independent contractors, delivering food and other goods to private residences. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

Salary: $60,864 per year

18. Security Guard

Security guards’ primary responsibilities include walking patrol routes, inspecting fences and security equipment, and keeping trespassers away from personal or commercial property. Depending on the position, security guards may be required to carry a weapon. Many security guards are full-time employees with the option of working the night shift. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without a degree and among the easy jobs that pay well without experience.

Salary: $31,086 per year.

20. Flight attendant

Flight attendants’ primary responsibilities include providing refreshments and information to passengers on commercial or private jets. Flight attendants also communicate any issues with the pilot and co-pilot while adhering to industry ethics and the law. Most flight attendants work full-time and have the opportunity to travel across the country or around the world. This is one of the low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree and among the fun jobs that pay 60k a year.

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Salary: $64,243 per year in the United States.

21. Physical Therapy Assistant

If you enjoy interacting with others, physical therapy may be for you. You work as a Physical Therapy Aide alongside a Physical Therapist to prepare treatment areas for patients. In addition to interacting with patients, you will sterilize tools, keep records, and perform other duties. This is an excellent way to begin a career in physical therapy and work your way up to higher pay. The turnaround time for educational training is relatively short — it only takes 17 weeks to prepare for the exams to become a certified physical therapy technician.

You will meet new people every day to assist them in recovering from injuries and regaining their healthiest selves! This is one of the jobs for millennials with no degree and among the jobs that pay 70k a year without a degree. 

Salary: $86,000 on average

Education/Training: Certification

22. Web Developer

Web developers create professional websites for individuals, businesses, and government agencies using coding languages. Developers also design and manage websites, ensuring that security tools are up to date and that the site remains operational. Developers frequently work full-time in both the private and public sectors, as well as freelancers. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without the experience and among the jobs that don’t require a degree but pay well.

Salary: $75,131 per year

23. Groundskeeper

Primary responsibilities include cutting grass, trimming plants, planting flowers and bushes, maintaining fences or other structures, and keeping the grounds free of litter or refuse. Groundskeepers can work full-time in either the private or public sectors and do not need a formal education. This is one of the jobs for millennials with no degree and among the jobs that pay 70k a year without a degree. 

Salary: $72,144 per year on average in the United States

24. Bartender

Bartenders’ primary responsibilities include the preparation of mixed drinks and other alcoholic beverages as well as the maintenance of a clean and professional workplace. Bartenders attend to the needs of customers, take food and drink orders, and adhere to alcohol laws and procedures. Bartenders can work full-time or part-time in private establishments or at public events. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without the experience and among the jobs that don’t require a degree but pay well.

Salary: $37,426 per year

25. Line Cook

Line cooks’ primary responsibilities include preparing ingredients and cooking food for customers. Cooks follow safety and food sanitation laws and regulations, as well as ensure the flavor, quality, and consistency of food from the cooking line. Line cooks can work full-time or part-time, and some positions are entry-level. This is one of the jobs for millennials with no degree and among the jobs that pay 70k a year without a degree. 

Salary: $70,284

26. Personal Trainer

Personal trainers’ primary responsibilities include assisting people in developing exercise routines, managing weight, and providing emotional support and encouragement throughout the process. Personal trainers also follow strict fitness regimens and collaborate with other trainers to create customized fitness plans. Many trainers work full-time in fitness centers or gyms, or as independent contractors.

Salary: $36,265 per year in the United States. This is one of the fun jobs that pay well without the experience and among the jobs that don’t require a degree but pay well.

Conclusion

As you can see, finding enjoyable jobs that pay well without a degree is not a difficult task. The majority of these jobs pay more than $30,000 per year as a starting salary, with the potential to earn up to $150,000 per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Basic Requirements for Getting a Fun Job That Pay Well?

Even jobs that do not necessitate a college diploma have basic requirements for prospective employees. These are some examples:

  • Computer skills: To work with company software and machinery, many modern jobs require employees to have some computer knowledge.
  • Communication skills: Most jobs will necessitate communication skills for employees to collaborate with other team members and articulate needs and issues in a timely and effective manner.
  • High school diploma or GED: A high school diploma or GED is frequently the minimum education requirement for any job, but this is not always the case.
  • Teamwork abilities: Most positions outside of freelancing or independent contracting require the ability to work well with others.
  • Reading and writing abilities: Most jobs necessitate basic reading and writing abilities for employees to read company documents and fill out forms.
  • Problem-solving abilities: The ability to quickly assess a problem and devise viable solutions can be a valuable asset to a business.
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