forbes.com
15 High-Paying, Low-Stress Jobs for 2025
Resume Genius's 2025 report lists 15 high-paying, low-stress jobs (e.g., Water Resource Specialist, $157,740 median wage, 8% growth), reflecting a growing trend of workers prioritizing well-being and work-life balance amid rising burnout rates (51% in 2024).
- How does the increasing prevalence of burnout contribute to the growing demand for low-stress, high-paying jobs?
- The report reveals a growing trend of job seekers prioritizing work-life balance, driven by increasing burnout rates (51% in 2024, a 15% rise). This aligns with the 'New Happy Hour' wellness trend, where competitive salaries are no longer the sole focus. The report directly addresses this shift by providing options that balance high pay with low stress.
- What long-term societal impacts might result from the increasing prioritization of work-life balance and mental well-being in career choices?
- The increasing demand for low-stress, high-paying jobs reflects a significant cultural shift in the American workplace. The report suggests future job markets will see continued growth in roles emphasizing mental well-being and flexible work arrangements. This trend reflects evolving employee priorities and expectations.
- What are the highest-paying, low-stress jobs identified in the Resume Genius report, and what are their median annual wages and projected growth rates?
- Resume Genius's 2025 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs Report identifies 15 high-paying, low-stress jobs, analyzed using O*NET's stress tolerance data (under 60) and BLS salary/growth data. These roles range from Water Resource Specialists ($157,740 median wage) to Craft Artists ($52,910), highlighting diverse career paths prioritizing well-being.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing heavily emphasizes the positive aspects of low-stress, high-paying jobs, potentially creating an overly optimistic and unrealistic view of career options. The headline and introduction immediately focus on the positive, using words like "highest-paying" and "low-stress." The inclusion of the "New Happy Hour" wellness trend further reinforces a positive framing, potentially neglecting less positive aspects of the job market. The frequent use of quotes from a career expert at Resume Genius also subtly biases the information presented.
Language Bias
The language used is generally positive and promotional, leaning toward persuasive rather than purely objective reporting. Terms like "low-stress," "high-paying," and "thrive" convey a strong positive connotation. While not inherently biased, the consistent positive framing contributes to an overall optimistic tone that might not reflect the complexities of the job market.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on high-paying, low-stress jobs but omits discussion of the potential downsides or challenges associated with these careers. For instance, while some jobs like 'Astronomer' are presented as low-stress, the reality of securing such positions (high competition, demanding education) could be stressful. The article also doesn't address the potential for stress in any job, regardless of its ranking. The omission of these perspectives creates a potentially unrealistic view of work-life balance.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by implying that a healthy work-life balance can only be achieved through high-paying, low-stress jobs. It neglects other factors contributing to well-being, such as job satisfaction, purpose, and supportive work environments. The focus on salary and stress level as the sole determinants of work-life balance is an oversimplification.
Gender Bias
The article doesn't exhibit overt gender bias in its language or examples. However, it lacks specific data on gender representation within the listed professions, preventing a complete assessment of potential gender imbalances.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a growing trend of prioritizing mental health and work-life balance in the workplace. It showcases high-paying, low-stress jobs, directly addressing the need for improved well-being among employees. The increasing awareness of burnout and the desire for healthier work-life integration contribute positively to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), specifically target 3.4 which aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. The focus on reducing stress in the workplace and promoting better work-life balance directly impacts employee well-being and reduces the risk of burnout and related health issues.