10 highest-paying jobs in the US, according to federal data
The average wage across all occupations is $69,770.
Mason Reed 
If you are looking for the biggest paychecks in the United States, your search will likely lead you into a hospital. According to new federal wage estimates, the medical field completely dominates the list of the country's highest-paying occupations.
Medical Fields Lead the Way
Pediatric surgeons claim the top spot, bringing in an average annual wage of $502,050. They are followed closely by cardiologists at $454,940 and radiologists at $381,530. In fact, the entire top 10 list of the highest-paying jobs in the U.S. is comprised exclusively of medical roles.
These figures far outpace the national average, as the mean wage across all occupations sits at $69,770. It is important to note, however, that securing these top-tier salaries typically demands extensive higher education and specialized training.
Data Methodology
These latest estimates, reflecting data from May 2025, come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. While these annual wage calculations include commissions and tips, they exclude most bonuses and overtime pay.
Top Earners Outside of Healthcare
When you step outside of the medical profession, airline pilots take the lead with an average annual wage of $288,650, followed by chief executive officers at $269,630.
Athletes earn an average of $206,180, though 205focus.com notes that this number is heavily impacted by top-tier earners. The median salary for athletes is closer to $67,000 per year.
Rounding out the highest-paying roles outside of healthcare are lawyers, who earn an average of $185,840, alongside financial managers, marketing managers, and computer and information systems managers.
