You may not necessarily be looking for a “dream job.” But how about one that just isn’t so draining every day? What’s even more of a dream is work that feels steady; work where stress doesn’t follow you home; and work that may pay enough to live on — without needing a four-year degree or taking on years of student debt.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with only a high school diploma earn a median of about $930 per week, while those with a bachelor’s degree earn about $1,543 per week. On paper, that gap can look large. But these are national averages across many roles, industries, and work conditions — and they don’t tell you how stressful a job actually feels day to day.
This article looks at low-stress jobs that may pay well without a degree, focusing on roles that tend to offer clearer expectations, more predictable work, and fewer high-pressure situations. Learn what these jobs usually pay, how that pay can change by city, what skills or training is needed, and what growth can look like over time.
What “low stress” means when choosing a job
“Low stress” jobs don’t mean sitting around doing nothing. Low stress typically means fewer emergencies, fewer emotionally charged situations, and less constant urgency. Here are some common traits low-stress jobs may share:
- Fewer emergencies or crisis situations, where split-second decisions carry serious consequences
- Less emotionally charged work, especially compared to jobs involving conflict, caregiving, or constant customer pressure
- Clear tasks and expectations, so you know what success looks like each day
- Straightforward training paths, often learned on the job or through short programs
- More predictable hours or workflows, even if schedules vary week to week
- Lower exposure to physical danger or public-facing stress, depending on the role
For many people, this kind of structure makes work feel more manageable — even when the job is physical or hands-on.
Low-stress jobs that may pay well without a college degree
The jobs below are often considered lower stress because they’re skill-based, task-focused, and more predictable than many customer-facing or crisis-driven roles. Pay can vary significantly by location, so you’ll see two different city ranges to get a feeling for what the same job can provide depending on where you work.
Machinery maintenance workers
Typical pay range: In lower-cost cities like El Paso, the average pay often lands around $25 per hour. In higher-cost cities like Boston-Cambridge-Newton it can reach about $39 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Machinery maintenance workers inspect, repair, and maintain industrial equipment. Most work follows scheduled inspections, preventive maintenance, and clearly defined repair tasks.
What makes it low stress? The job is typically structured and routine-driven. While issues do come up, most work is planned rather than urgent, which keeps pressure manageable.
Skills commonly required
- Mechanical aptitude
- Ability to read technical manuals
- Basic computer skills
- Physical strength and stamina
- Troubleshooting abilities
Training or certifications
Many positions require only a high school diploma with on-the-job training. Some employers prefer vocational training in industrial maintenance.
Growth and career paths: Workers often move into senior technician or preventive maintenance roles, where the focus is on avoiding breakdowns rather than responding to them. Some roles are transitioning into maintenance planning or supervision.
Low-stress tip: Preventive maintenance roles are usually calmer than emergency or breakdown-response positions.
Electricians
Typical pay range: In lower-cost cities like Panama City–Panama City Beach, Florida, the average pay for electricians often lands around $25 per hour. In higher-cost cities like San Francisco–Oakland–Fremont, it can reach about $52 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, or industrial settings. Most work is scheduled and guided by safety codes and plans.
What makes it low stress? Electricians work with clearly defined systems and strong safety rules. Apprenticeships provide a clear path into the field, and stress is usually tied to completing jobs safely — not dealing with constant emergencies.
Skills commonly required
- Understanding of electrical theory
- Manual dexterity and color vision
- Critical thinking and troubleshooting
- Physical fitness for climbing and lifting
- Math skills for calculations
Training or certifications
Most electricians complete a 4–5 year apprenticeship combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Many states require licensing, which involves passing an exam on electrical code and theory.
Growth and career paths: As electricians move from apprentice to journey worker to master electrician, they can gain more control over job selection. The next step could be advancement to supervisor or project manager.
Low-stress tip: Self-employed electricians that work in residential construction jobs may be able to set their own schedules.
Locksmiths and safe repairers
Typical pay range: In lower-cost cities like El Paso, the average pay often lands around $19 per hour. In higher-cost cities like San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California, it can reach about $37 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Locksmiths install, repair, and open locks for homes, businesses, and vehicles. The work usually involves scheduled service calls, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and replacing or upgrading locking systems.
What makes it low stress? This role is skills-based and predictable. Locksmiths can create their own schedules, a quality that can lead to a much-sought-after work-life balance. And if 9-to-5 is not for you, locksmithing can be a good option as it allows for you to plan your own hours.
- Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
- Basic math and problem-solving abilities
- Customer service skills
- Attention to detail
- Physical stamina for standing and kneeling
Training or certifications: Most states require licensing, which typically involves completing an apprenticeship or vocational program. Some locksmiths learn through on-the-job training. Certification through organizations like ALOA can improve job prospects.
Growth and career paths: Work for locksmiths and safe repairers is moving from more mechanical services to electronic security and digital access. While there might be a slight decline for traditional roles, demand is growing for technicians who can learn about advanced technologies in locks and safes that involve smart systems or robotics.
Low-stress tip: If predictability matters, look for roles focused on commercial or institutional clients rather than 24/7 residential service.
Barbers
Typical pay range: In lower-cost cities like Pittsburgh, barbers often earn an average of $17 per hour. In higher-cost cities like the District of Columbia, their average pay can reach about $47 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Barbers cut, style, and groom hair. Work is appointment-based or walk-in focused and usually happens in a consistent setting.
What makes it low stress? Barbers usually control their pace, schedules, and clients. The work is creative but predictable, and the stakes are low.
Skills commonly required
- Hair cutting and styling techniques
- Customer service and conversation skills
- Attention to detail and artistic eye
- Hand-eye coordination
- Business skills for managing appointments
Training or certifications
All states require barbers to be licensed. This typically involves completing a state-approved barber program and passing written and practical exams.
Growth and career paths: Over time, barbers build loyal client lists, which leads to steadier income and fewer rushed days. Many reduce hours or switch to appointment-only schedules while maintaining earnings.
Low-stress tip: Appointment-based work usually offers more control and less unpredictability than walk-in-only shops.
Photographers
Typical pay range: In cities like McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, Texas, photographers earn about $15 per hour on average. In metro areas like the District of Columbia, average pay for photographers rises to around $50 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Take photos for events, businesses, or creative projects, often managing your own workflow.
What makes it low stress? Photographers often control their pace and schedules. While income can vary by project, many enjoy autonomy and creative freedom.
Skills commonly required
- Camera and lighting knowledge
- Attention to composition and detail
- Basic photo editing skills
- Time management
- Communication skills
Training or certifications
Photographers typically learn through experience, self-study, or short courses. While certification is not required, some pursue professional credentials to demonstrate skill.
Growth and career paths: Specialization often leads to repeat clients and predictable work.
Low-stress tip: Event photography is usually more structured than wedding or other social photography since there is less spontaneity — but it’s important the key shots are all planned out.
Carpet installers
Typical pay range: In lower-cost cities like Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, North Carolina, the average pay for carpet installers is often about $19 per hour. In higher-cost cities like Reno, Nevada, it can reach about $38 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Installers measure, cut, and lay carpet and other flooring materials according to project plans.
What makes it low stress? This is project-based work with clear expectations. Jobs start, jobs end, and stress rarely spills over.
Skills commonly required
- Physical strength and stamina
- Precision measuring and cutting
- Basic math skills
- Customer service abilities
- Problem-solving for unusual room shapes
Training or certifications
Most learn through on-the-job training, though some complete apprenticeships. Certification through the International Certified Flooring Installers (CFI) can improve job prospects.
Growth and career paths: As skills improve, installers may handle more complex jobs or work directly with contractors. Some could move into estimating, coordination, or supervisory roles, which might involve less physical work.
Low-stress tip: Remodel and residential projects can come with looser timelines vs. commercial installs, which tend to be larger in scale and require specialized knowledge.
Light truck drivers
Typical pay range: In cities like Harrisonburg, Virginia, light truck drivers earn about $18 per hour on average. In cities like Anchorage, Alaska, average pay rises to around $30 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Drive short delivery routes, load and unload goods, and follow set schedules.
What makes it low stress? Short routes and predictable deliveries make this role less stressful than long-haul driving. Growth often comes through route specialization or logistics roles.
Skills commonly required
- Safe driving habits
- Time management and route awareness
- Basic vehicle inspection skills
- Ability to follow delivery instructions
- Customer interaction skills
Training or certifications
Most light truck driving jobs require a valid driver’s license and on-the-job training. Some roles may require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), depending on vehicle weight and state regulations.
Growth and career paths: Many drivers move into dedicated routes with the same stops each day. Others transition into dispatcher or route-planning roles, which reduce time on the road.
Low-stress tip: Fixed-route delivery roles are usually calmer than on-demand or gig-based driving.
Landscaping and groundskeeping workers
Typical pay range: On the lower end, in cities like Monroe, Louisiana, the average pay is often around $15 per hour. On the higher end, in cities like San Jose–Sunnyvale–Santa Clara, California, it can reach about $26 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Workers maintain lawns, gardens, and outdoor spaces, including mowing, trimming, and seasonal upkeep.
What makes it low stress? Outdoor work tends to follow routines and seasons. Many people like the predictable schedules and lower-pressure environment.
Skills commonly required
- Physical fitness and stamina
- Equipment operation abilities
- Basic plant knowledge
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work in various weather conditions
Training or certifications
Most positions require only on-the-job training. Pesticide application often requires state certification. Some pursue certificates in landscape design or horticulture.
Growth and career paths: Many workers move into crew lead roles or focus on maintenance contracts rather than seasonal installation work. Maintenance roles often offer repeat locations and stable routines.
Low-stress tip: Long-term property maintenance is typically steadier than one-off landscaping projects.
Animal caretakers
Typical pay range: In cities like Hot Springs, Arizona, animal caretakers earn about $14 per hour on average. In metro areas like Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, Washington, average pay for animal caretakers rises to around $22 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Feed, clean, and care for animals in shelters, kennels, or care facilities.
What makes it low stress? The work is routine and often quiet, with limited public interaction. Some move into specialized care or facility management roles.
Skills commonly required
- Basic comfort with animals
- Attention to hygiene and safety
- Physical stamina
- Ability to follow care routines
- Observation and reporting skills
Training or certifications
Most animal caretaker roles provide on-the-job training. Some workers pursue optional certifications related to animal care or shelter work.
Growth and career paths: Some caretakers specialize in certain animals or move into lead caretaker or facility support roles, which come with more structure and consistency.
Low-stress tip: Facilities with fixed care schedules tend to be calmer than emergency-focused settings.
Automotive service technicians and mechanics
Typical pay range: In lower-cost cities like Elizabethtown, Kentucky, the average pay often lands around $21 per hour. In higher-cost cities like San Jose–Sunnyvale–Santa Clara, it can reach about $41 per hour.
Job responsibilities: Automotive technicians diagnose and repair vehicles, perform routine maintenance, and replace parts. The work follows clear diagnostic steps and service procedures.
What makes it low stress? The work is task-based and diagnostic. You fix what’s broken, move to the next job, and repeat. While deadlines exist, focus is on the mechanical rather than the emotional.
Skills commonly required
- Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
- Computer skills for diagnostic equipment
- Customer service for explaining repairs
- Physical stamina and dexterity
- Attention to detail
Training or certifications
Many complete vocational programs or community college courses. ASE certification, though voluntary, is preferred by most employers. Manufacturer-specific training can increase earning potential.
Growth and career paths: With experience, technicians often specialize in diagnostics, electrical systems, or specific vehicle brands. Some move into shop foreman or service advisor roles, reducing physical strain and offering more predictable schedules.
Low-stress tip: Dealership or fleet maintenance roles usually follow clearer routines than independent shops, which can require knowledge of many makes and models.
Comparing low-stress, no-degree jobs by pay across the U.S.
Where you live matters a lot. The same job can feel comfortable in one state and tight in another because of housing costs, transportation, and local demand. Exploring pay by city can help you understand what a role might really feel like in your area.
Role | Pay (lower-pay cities) | Pay (higher-pay cities) |
Machinery maintenance workers | ~$25/hr (El Paso, TX) | ~$39/hr (San Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA) |
Electricians | ~$25/hr (Panama City-Panama City Beach, FL) | ~$52/hr (San Francisco–Oakland–Fremont, CA) |
Locksmiths and safe repairers | ~$19/hr (El Paso, TX) | ~$37/hr (San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA) |
Barbers | ~$17/hr (Pittsburgh, PA) | ~$47/hr (District of Columbia) |
Photographers | ~$15/hr (McAllen- Edinburg-Mission, TX) | ~$50/hr (District of Columbia) |
Carpet installers | ~$19/hr (Charlotte- Concord-Gastonia, NC) | ~$38/hr (Reno, NV) |
Light truck drivers | ~$18/hr (Harrisonburg, VA) | ~$30/hr (Anchorage, AK) |
Landscaping and groundskeeping workers | ~$15/hr (Monroe, LA) | ~$26/hr (San Jose–Sunnyvale–Santa Clara, CA) |
Animal caretakers | ~$14/hr (Hot Springs, AZ) | ~$22/hr (Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA) |
Automotive service technicians and mechanics | ~$21/hr (Elizabethtown, KY) | ~$41/hr (San Jose–Sunnyvale–Santa Clara, CA) |
Source: EarnIn’s Find Your Salary tool, as of January 16, 2026. These figures are estimates, vary by employer/experience, and not a guarantee.
These regional variations highlight why the same job might offer comfortable living in one area while requiring careful budgeting in another. Cities typically offer higher wages but also demand higher living expenses, while rural areas may provide lower pay with more affordable housing costs. Important note: This list of professions isn’t meant to be comprehensive or one-size-fits-all. What feels "low stress" can vary widely depending on your temperament, physical tolerance, financial needs, and work environment. Some people find structure calming, while others prefer flexibility. Some no-degree jobs pay very well but involve higher stakes or tighter deadlines, which is why they weren’t included on this list. Roles like
can pay well without a four-year degree, but they often involve higher stakes, tighter deadlines, or greater responsibility.
To see how pay changes by role and location, explore the full EarnIn Salary database.
Would a college degree change pay or stress levels?
A college degree could change pay or stress levels; but not always in the way people expect. While BLS data shows higher average earnings for people with degrees, those averages typically don’t reflect stress, schedules, or day-to-day pressure. They take into account only the highest level of education attained.
Stress usually comes from responsibility levels, urgency, and unpredictability — not just education. Plenty of no-degree roles offer steady pay and manageable workloads, while some degree-based jobs come with constant pressure. Gen Zers may have already figured this out: According to Resume Builder, 42% of them are currently working in or pursuing a blue-collar or skilled trade job.
That said, college can still be the right path for some people — especially if it aligns with long-term goals or a specific career track. If you’re considering that option, it can be worth understanding the costs and planning ahead.
That said, college can still be the right path for some people — especially if it aligns with long-term goals or a specific career track. If you’re considering that option, it can be worth understanding the costs and planning ahead.
When real life interrupts even predictable jobs, some people explore EarnIn
Even steady jobs run into real-life expenses. Medical bills, car repairs, family needs, or seasonal costs don’t wait for payday. One EarnIn user shared what happened when their pet suddenly needed emergency veterinary care. The visit wasn’t optional, and it wasn’t something they could delay. But covering the cost right away meant risking an overdraft.
By accessing about $250 from pay they had already earned, they were able to cover the vet bill. That early access didn't erase the expense or turn it into a non-issue. It simply helped them handle an urgent, emotional situation without more financial stress on top of it.
Note: Results vary; using EarnIn doesn't guarantee avoiding overdrafts or third-party fees.
For those facing timing gaps between earning and needing money, EarnIn offers tools designed to help bridge these temporary mismatches without traditional lending costs or credit checks.
- Live Pay on the EarnIn Card1 lets you access your pay as you earn it, rather than waiting for traditional pay cycles.
- For faster transfers, try Lightning Speed4 to get cash in minutes (starting at $3.99 per transfer).
- You can also use Balance Shield5 to get alerts when your account balance runs low.
For workers navigating pay timing and everyday expenses, EarnIn is one of several cash advance alternatives people choose to explore. Others use EarnIn’s salary database and financial calculators6 to better understand how their pay changes by job, location, and schedule — without committing to any product.
Your career, your money, your way
Finding the right balance between manageable stress and good pay may not require a four-year degree. The careers explored here could offer various paths to stable income. For many people, these roles offer steady hours, fewer surprises, and the kind of routine that makes everyday life a little easier to manage — especially when paired with a broader household income plan.
Financial challenges can arise regardless of your career choice, often related more to timing mismatches than income levels. Unexpected expenses don’t wait. That’s where gaining access to your earnings can make a real difference.
EarnIn is built around that idea — helping people access their own pay on their own terms, so work feels less stressful and money feels more manageable. Not to spend more, but to worry less. To stay steady when life happens. And to make thoughtful choices without pressure.
Whether you're considering a career change or just starting out, these no-degree options can show that good pay and manageable stress don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Explore resources like EarnIn’s salary database and financial calculators5 that support informed decision-making about your career and money. Take time to research, pursue relevant training, and choose the path that aligns with both your financial needs and personal wellbeing.
All weekly earnings data from the EarnIn salary database (as of January 16, 2026).
Please note, the material collected in this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as or construed as advice regarding any specific circumstances. Nor is it an endorsement of any organization or services.
This Blog was sponsored by EarnIn. While the author received compensation, the information shared is grounded in independent research and intended to provide helpful and accurate guidance to readers.
EarnIn is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Cash Out product is a non‑bank service provided by EarnIn. Certain banking and payment services are provided by Evolve Bank & Trust, Member FDIC, and/or Lead Bank, Member FDIC, as applicable. FDIC insurance applies only to deposits held in insured deposit accounts at an FDIC‑insured bank and protects your deposits in the event of a bank failure, up to at least $250,000 at each FDIC‑insured bank. Learn more at fdic.gov/resources/deposit‑insurance. Additional in‑app services may be provided by third‑party service providers and are subject to their terms and conditions.
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The EarnIn Card is issued by Evolve Bank & Trust (“Evolve”), pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A., Inc. Visa is a registered trademark of Visa International Service Association. All other trademarks, service marks, and other registered marks are the property of their respective owners. To obtain an EarnIn Card you must (i) open a Deposit Account and a Secured Account with one of our bank partners through the EarnIn app; (ii) update your direct deposit routing with your employer so that you receive at least $1,000 per month into your Deposit Account; and (iii) pre-authorize our bank partner to automatically transfer all funds from your Deposit Account to your Secured Account. The funds in your Secured Account will be used to cover the purchases you make with your EarnIn Card (the “Card Balances”). If the funds in your Secured Account are insufficient to fully cover the Card Balances, the remaining amount will be debited from the bank account you linked in the EarnIn app. The “Available” amount shown in the EarnIn app reflects the total amount you can spend on the Card, this includes money in your Secured Account plus a portion of your unpaid earnings (up to $1,500 per pay period). You can use up to $1,500 per day for purchases and up to $300 per day for cash advances.
Applicable fees are listed here. The EarnIn Card is available to eligible EarnIn members in select states. Additional terms and restrictions may apply. For more information, please refer to our FAQs and the Cardholder Agreement and Security Agreements.
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EarnIn determines your daily and pay period limits (“Daily Max” and “Pay Period Max”) based on your income and financial risk factors as outlined in the Cash Out User Agreement. EarnIn reserves the right to adjust the Daily Max and Pay Period Max at its discretion. Your actual Daily Max will be displayed in your EarnIn account before each Cash Out. For additional information about your Daily Max and Pay Period Max, please refer to our FAQ. Service may not be available in all states. EarnIn does not charge interest on Cash Outs or mandatory fees for standard transfers, which usually take 1–2 business days. For faster transfers, you can choose the Lightning Speed option and pay a fee to receive funds within 30 minutes. Lightning Speed may not be available at all times and/or to all customers. See the Fee Table for details. Tips are optional and do not affect the quality or availability of services.
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Tips go to EarnIn and help us provide tools such as Credit Monitoring for free and keep Lightning Speed fees low. Your service quality and availability aren’t affected by whether you tip or not.4
Lightning Speed is an optional service that allows you to expedite the transfer of funds for a fee. Depending on the product, the fee may be charged by EarnIn or its banking partner. Lightning Speed may not be available to all customers. Actual transfer speeds depend on your bank. See the Lightning Speed Fee Table for details.5
Balance Shield provides free alerts when your bank account balance drops below the threshold you set in your EarnIn account. You can also enable automatic transfers ($100/day - subject to your available earnings - with a limit of $1,000/pay period), if your bank account balance falls below your set threshold. If your available earnings are insufficient to transfer the $100, the transfer will not be completed. You choose the speed of these automatic transfers. Standard speed is available at no cost and the transfer typically takes 1-2 business days. Lightning Speed is available for a fee [see Lightning Speed Fee Table] and the transfer typically takes less than 30 minutes. You will also have the option to set a tip for automatic transfers. Tips are optional and can be $0; however, if you choose to set a tip, it will be applied to each Balance Shield transfer. Whether you tip, how much, and how often you tip does not impact the quality and availability of services. You can cancel the alerts and/or transfers at any time in your EarnIn account settings. See the Cash Out User Agreement for more details. While Balance Shield can help you avoid overdrafts, it does not guarantee protection from third-party fees, and its effectiveness depends on your usage and bank activity.6
The calculations provided are based on estimates and should be used for informational purposes only. Please be aware that comparisons may not be 100% accurate. The insights and data presented do not constitute financial advice, and we recommend consulting with a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance.Popular articles
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