With the right training, you can secure one of the highest-paying jobs in the UK.

These roles offer salaries that meet or exceed the UK’s median full-time income of £37,430 as reported by the Office for National Statistics.

These well-paid careers can be found in different sectors such as:

Table of Contents

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51 Highest Paying Jobs in The UK

Finance and Banking

image of digital transaction depicting one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#1 Financial Analyst

Average Salary: £39,000
Starting Salary: £30,000
Highest Salary: £51,000

Financial analysts use data to forecast budgets, monitor KPIs, and support strategic planning. They work with businesses and independent clients to improve financial performance.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in finance, accounting, or economics is required. Vocational qualifications like CFAs are highly regarded and improve employment prospects.

Career Progression:

Completing a master’s in finance or business can help you move into senior analyst or management roles.

#2 Actuary

Average Salary: £70,000
Starting Salary: £55,000
Highest Salary: £89,000

Actuaries use maths and statistics to assess risk and predict future outcomes. They support financial planning in insurance, pensions, and investments.

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need a degree in actuarial science, maths, or statistics. Trainee actuaries must also pass exams through the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA):

IAFAO site qualifications page to train for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

Prospects says you can progress into managerial roles, leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and influencing high-level decisions in your organisation:

financial-analyst-career-actuary-career-page-to-train-for-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk-min

#3 Investment Banker

Average Salary: £46,000
Starting Salary: £34,000
Highest Salary: £62,000

Investment bankers manage complex financial transactions. They support mergers, acquisitions, and public offerings to help clients raise capital and minimise risk.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in finance, economics, or business is a standard requirement. Most also complete internships or MBAs.

Career Progression:

Execapital notes you’ll progress from analyst to associate, then to roles like Vice-President and Managing Director:

text graphic explaining career progression for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#4 Chief Financial Officer

Average Salary: £91,000
Starting Salary:£120,000
Highest Salary: £158,000

CFOs manage financial strategy, budgeting, audits, and compliance to drive long-term planning and business growth.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in finance, economics, or accounting is essential. AICPA & CIMA certifications will also support career progression.

Career Progression:

According to DigitalDefynd, after reaching the CFO position, you can advance even further into top executive roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Board Director, or Chief Strategy Officer (CSO).

#5 Hedge Fund Manager

Average Salary: £131,000
Starting Salary: £91,000
Highest Salary: £188,000

Hedge fund managers analyse markets, manage risks and make high-stakes investment decisions, it’s one of the best-earning professions in finance.

Qualifications and Training:

Degrees in finance, economics, or maths may be required, alternatively employers may look for vocational training such as CISI certifications along with trading experience.

cisi qualification page for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

You can start as a hedge fund analyst, before progressing to portfolio or risk manager roles with experience and ability to deliver proven returns.

#6 Corporate Lawyer

Average Salary: £77,000
Starting Salary: £54,000
Highest Salary: £180,000

Corporate lawyers advise businesses on contracts, compliance, and mergers. They also ensure legal protection during commercial transactions.

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need to hold a law degree and pass the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE). You’ll also be required to have two years of experience in legal work:

snapshot of sqe qualifications, courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

All About Law says you’ll start as a trainee solicitor, then progress to associate, senior associate, and possibly partner with strong performance.

#7 Barrister

Average Salary: £45,000
Starting Salary: £26,000
Highest Salary: £77,000

Barristers represent clients in courts of law, specialising in advocacy and legal advice..

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need to complete a PGDL, apply for Inn Court Membership and complete one-year pupillage before being called for the Bar Exam.

Career Progression:

The National Careers Service says you can advance to roles like King’s Counsel (KC), Judge, or managerial positions within chambers:

construction-manager-career-prospects-for-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

#8 Intellectual Property Lawyer

Average Salary: £59,000
Starting Salary: £43,000
Highest Salary: £80,000

IP lawyers protect creative assets like trademarks and patents by handling legal disputes involving intellectual property rights.

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need a PGDL before completing a SQE and Bar Exam. You’ll then gain work experience (QWE) or pupillage:

example-of-sqe-qualifications-for-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk-min

Career Progression:

Starting as a trainee or pupil, you can specialise in trademarks or patents and progress to partner or QC roles in top firms such as Two Birds:

two birds site for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#9 Judge

Average Salary: £40,000
Starting Salary: £28,000
Highest Salary: £58,000

Judges ensure fair trials by interpreting laws, assessing evidence, and presiding over court proceedings to deliver legal rulings and uphold standards.
Qualifications and Training

You must have at least 5 to 7 years’ post-qualification experience as a solicitor or barrister. Judges are named through the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) and begin in part-time or fee-paid roles:

jac website, to get appointed for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

National Careers notes that you can progress as a judge from District Judge to Circuit Judge or High Court Judge. With experience, you may advance to the Court of Appeal or Supreme Court, or specialise in the judiciary, such as family or employment law.

Average Salary: £35,000
Starting Salary: £25,000
Highest Salary: £49,000

Legal Partners are senior solicitors or barristers who co-own or lead law firms. They oversee legal teams, manage client relationships, and shape the firm’s strategic and financial direction.

Qualifications and Training

To become a legal partner, you must first qualify as a solicitor by passing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination or as a barrister through Bar training and pupillage.

You’ll then need several years of developing your expertise, a strong client base, and commercial awareness. This demonstrates your ability to drive growth, lead teams, and support the firm’s long-term success.

Career Progression

As a Partner, you can advance to senior roles such as consultancy or judicial positions.

Fitness Industry

#11 Online Coach

Average Salary: £29,000
Starting Salary: £23,000
Highest Salary: £37,000

Online coaches deliver fitness programmes digitally and support clients worldwide. High demand allows for flexible hours and strong earning potential.

Qualifications and Training

Holding a Level 3 Personal Trainer Qualification is a legal requirement to obtain professional insurance from providers like Insure4Sport:

Insure4sport insurance page for onlince classes of one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

Earn specialist qualifications to offer additional services that will expand your client base. For example, with a Level 4 Nutrition Course, you can offer bespoke meal plans and nutrition coaching.

#12 Fitness Influencer

Salary: Unlimited earning potential

Fitness influencers use social media to promote health and wellness, creating content, working with brands, and selling products.

Qualifications and Training:

No formal training is required, but completing a Level 3 Personal Training Qualification can help build trust with followers.

Career Progression:

You can grow your audience, land sponsorships, and launch products. Agencies like Gym Fluencers help connect influencers with brand deals:

landing page from gymfluencers depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

#13 Personal Trainer

illustration of two people working out, depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £28,000
Starting Salary: £20,000
Highest Salary: £38,000

Personal trainers design and lead bespoke exercise plans that help clients reach fitness goals.

Qualifications and Training:

A Level 3 PT qualification is essential for becoming a Personal Trainer, and is legally required for insurance coverage with providers like Insure4Sport:

insure 4 sport site, depicting insurance for PT, one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

Personal trainers can progress into gym manager roles or kickstart their own business and become self-employed.

#14 Gym Owner

illustration of a fitness professional depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £40,000
Starting Salary: £25,000
Highest Salary: £62,000

Gym owners manage fitness centres, oversee staff and operations. For those seeking high-income careers in the fitness industry, this is one of the jobs that offers autonomy, growth, and a strong earning potential.

Qualifications and Training:

A Level 3 PT Qualification helps you understand the business side of the fitness industry, which is vitally important.

Career Progression:

After opening your own gym, you can expand your services to multiple locations.

Healthcare and Medicine

#15 Pharmacist

Average Salary: £43,000
Starting Salary: £38,000
Highest Salary: £50,000

Pharmacists dispense medications and advise patients on safe usage. They also support healthcare teams and ensure legal compliance.

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need an MPharm degree, a pre-registration placement, and General Pharmaceutical Council registration:

screenshot of the GPC site to register for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

National Careers Service states pharmacists can become consultants, managers, or work in military and specialised healthcare roles:

example-of-career-path-for-pharmacist-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

#16 Dentist

Average Salary: £53,000
Starting Salary: £38,000
Highest Salary: £73,000

Dentists perform check-ups and carry out procedures like fillings and extractions to maintain oral health.

Qualifications and Training:

You need a degree in dental surgery and registration with the General Dental Council:

example-of-registration-for-dentist-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

Career Progression

Dentistry offers high earnings within healthcare. The National Careers states you can become a practice partner, open your own clinic, or join the armed forces:

example-of-career-progression-for-dentist-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

#17 Psychiatrist

Average Salary: £24,000
Starting Salary: £19,000
Highest Salary: £29,000

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health disorders using medication, therapy, and holistic approaches.

Qualifications and Training:

A medical degree followed by foundation training and psychiatry specialisation is required. You must also pass the MRCPsych exams:

snapshots-of-exams-for-a-psychiatrist-one-of-the-best-high-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

Career Progression:

National Careers Service note that you can become a consultant, department lead, or academic educator in mental health.

#18 Anaesthetist

Average Salary: £37,000
Starting Salary: £30,000
Highest Salary: £45,000

Anaesthetists manage patient safety during surgeries and provide pain relief in medical settings.

Qualifications and Training:

A medical degree, foundation training, and anaesthetics specialisation are required, along with FRCA exams and GMC registration:

RCOA site, exams for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

You can become a consultant anaesthetist or move into education, leadership, or research roles in hospital departments:

example-of-career-progression-for-psychiatrist-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

#19 Surgeon

Average Salary: £58,000
Starting Salary: £45,000
Highest Salary: £74,000

Consistently ranked among the best jobs in UK healthcare, surgeons perform operations to treat injuries and illnesses.

Qualifications and Training:

A medical degree, surgical training, and passing the MRCS and FRCS exams are required. GMC registration is also necessary:

example of surgeon registration page for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

National Careers highlights that you can manage departments, train medical students, or become a senior consultant in surgical practices:

example of surgeon career progression for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#20 Consultant Doctor

Average Salary: £46,000
Starting Salary: £29,000
Highest Salary: £73,000

Consultants lead patient care, supervise junior medical staff, specialise in specific fields and contribute to research.

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need a medical degree and 5–8 years of specialist training. GMC specialist registration is also essential:

GMC site to register for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

You can move into NHS leadership, advisory roles, or boost earnings through private practice, positioning Consultancy as one of the UK’s most respected high-income careers in medicine.

Technology and Engineering

#21 Cybersecurity Specialist

image of a young man working on a laptop depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £52,000
Starting Salary: £41,000
Highest Salary: £67,000

Cybersecurity specialists protect systems from threats and enjoy one of the best jobs that pay well in the tech sector.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in computer science, along with certifications like the CEH qualification, can boost job prospects:

snapshot of the ceh course, for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

You can advance from analyst to consultant, or start your own cybersecurity firm with experience, as highlighted by Prospects:

career overview of cybersecurity, depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

#22 Software Engineer

Average Salary: £49,000
Starting Salary: £38,000
Highest Salary: £65,000

Software engineers develop, maintain systems, write code, and fix bugs.

Qualifications and Training:

A computer science degree is common, though courses like Learning People can also prepare you for the field:

learning code site, courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

Prospects show you can move into senior developer or team leader roles and eventually into tech management:

software developer career prospects, one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#23 Data Scientist

Average Salary: £49,000
Starting Salary: £38,000
Highest Salary: £63,000

Data scientists build models and uncover trends in large datasets to support business decisions.

Qualifications and Training:

You’ll need a background in maths, statistics, or computer science. Skills in Python and SQL are also highly valuable:

example of sql courses for data scientists-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

Prospects demonstrate you can become a lead analyst, senior scientist, or launch your own data-focused business:

example of career prospects for data scientists-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#24 Cloud Computing Engineer

Average Salary: £53,000
Starting Salary: £40,000
Highest Salary: £69,000

Cloud engineers design and maintain cloud systems that host websites, apps, and data infrastructure.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in IT or Computer Science is required, along with further training such as Azure certifications:

microsoft azure site, courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

You can advance into roles like cloud architect, infrastructure manager, or solutions engineer.

#25 Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Average Salary: £46,000
Starting Salary: £33,000
Highest Salary: £66,000

AI engineers develop machine learning models and intelligent systems for practical applications across industries.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in computer science or AI is typical. Experience with Python, TensorFlow, or PyTorch is also essential:

snapshot of the pytorch courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

The National Careers Service says you can lead AI projects, become a consultant, or launch your own tech startup:

example of career path for marine engineer-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

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Aviation and Transport

#26 Logistics Manager

Average Salary: £41,000
Starting Salary: £34,000
Highest Salary: £51,000

Logistics managers oversee supply chain operations, ensuring goods move efficiently from suppliers to customers.

Qualifications and Training:

A degree in logistics or business is useful, while Logistic UK can also provide practical entry routes:

example of logistics apprenticeships-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

Prospects says you can start in entry-level roles, progressing to senior logistics or operations management positions:

example of career path for logistics-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#27 Marine Engineer

Average Salary: £36,000
Starting Salary: £28,000
Highest Salary: £45,000

Marine engineers build and maintain ships and offshore systems, ensuring vessel safety, supervising repairs, and resolving engineering problems at sea or in dock.

Qualifications and Training

A degree in marine engineering or naval architecture is required. Courses like BOSIET at Blackpool College and seagoing experience improve your chances of employment:

Fleetwood course page for offshore safety, training for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

According to the National Careers Service, you can move into project management, maritime safety, or salvage operations.

example of career path for marine engineer-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#28 Air Traffic Controller

Average Salary: £51,000
Starting Salary: £40,000
Highest Salary: £66,000

Air traffic controllers manage the UK airspace, guiding take-offs and landings, keeping flights safe and on schedule.

Qualifications and Training

You need to train with NATS, have 5 GCSEs, pass a medical, and complete 12–18 months of funded training:

nats training site for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

National Careers Service highlights how you can advance to supervisory roles, operations management, or become a trainer for new controllers.

example of career progression for air traffic controller-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#29 Train Driver

illustration of a train driver depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £56,000
Starting Salary: £47,000
Highest Salary: £75,000

Train drivers operate passenger or freight trains, monitor signals, and ensure journeys are safe and punctual across the rail network.

Qualifications and Training

Apprenticeships, such as those offered by Northern provide the perfect way into the industry:

example-of-apprenticeship-for-train-drivers-one of the highest paying jobs in the uk-min

Career Progression

According to the National Careers Service, you can train new drivers, become a supervisor, or move into control room management.career-path-example-for-train-driver-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk-min

#30 Airline Pilot

Average Salary: £59,000
Starting Salary: £72,000
Highest Salary: £89,000

Airline pilots fly commercial aircraft, carry out pre-flight checks, and manage in-flight navigation, making it one of the best jobs in England for those with the right training.

Qualifications and Training

You need an ATPL, which involves simulator hours, theory exams, in-flight experience, along with a Class 1 Medical.

Pilot licence site, showing licence for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

National Careers Service proves you can progress to captain, instructor and operations manager.

snapshot of pilot career path for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Media, Arts and Entertainment

#31 Music Producer

Average Salary: £41,000
Starting Salary: £33,000
Highest Salary: £52,000

Music producers manage recording sessions, working with artists and engineers to create polished final tracks across music genres.

Qualifications and Training

Formal education isn’t essential, but studying sound engineering and gaining studio experience through apprenticeships offered by providers like Larp Music improves employability:

snapshot of music course for one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

Career Progression

You can move into studio management or broader media production jobs across the creative industry.

#32 Video Game Developer

Average Salary: £36,000
Starting Salary: £28,000
Highest Salary: £46,000

Game developers design and code systems, combining programming skills with creativity to build engaging player experiences.

Qualifications and Training

A degree in game development or computer science is preferred. Strong portfolios and internships can also improve career prospects.

Career Progression

The National Careers Service says you can become a senior developer, producer, or technical director once you’ve gained experience.

snapshot of game developer career path for one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#33 Film Director

Average Salary: £38,000
Starting Salary: £27,000
Highest Salary: £54,000

Film directors lead the creative and technical process behind films, managing actors, crews, and production to deliver a unified vision.

Qualifications and Training

A degree in film or media helps, but experience, networking, and building a strong showreel is equally as important.

Career Progression

The National Careers Service notes that you can self-produce projects, direct larger films, or work with major studios:

snapshot of film director career path for one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#34 TV Presenter

Average Salary: £31,000
Starting Salary: £25,000
Highest Salary: £37,000

TV presenters host shows, interview guests, and keep audiences engaged through confident delivery, charisma, and clear communication.

Qualifications and Training

Degrees in journalism, media, or communications are useful. Short presenting courses offered by City Lit and local media roles will help build experience:

snapshot of TV presenter courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

Career Progression

National Careers Service lists you can work with national broadcasters, move into acting or writing, or present on international or prime-time shows.

snapshot-of-TV-presenter-career-path-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-UK

Senior Management and Business

#35 Professional Athlete

illustration of an athelte depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £26,000
Starting Salary: £19,000
Highest Salary: £35,000

Professional athletes train rigorously and compete in events, representing clubs, sponsors, or national teams in high-level competitions.

Qualifications and Training

Early training, coaching, or sports science degrees can support athletic development.

Career Progression

According to the National Careers Service, athletes often move into coaching, development, sports science, and nutrition roles.

snapshot of professional athlete career path-one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#36 Operations Manager

Image of a business professioanl depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £44,000
Starting Salary: £35,000
Highest Salary: £55,000

Operations managers oversee daily functions, optimise workflows, manage resources, and lead teams to hit business goals efficiently.

Qualifications and Training

A business or management degree is a common requirement, whilst programmes such as FutureLearn can build leadership skills:

homepage of futurelearn’s business courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

According to Essential Site Skills, you can move into senior or executive leadership roles with experience:

text excerpt describing progression for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#37 Management Consultant

Average Salary: £56,000
Starting Salary: £44,000
Highest Salary: £71,000

Management consultants help businesses improve performance, efficiency, and profitability through expert analysis and strategic advice.

Qualifications and Training

A degree in business or economics is important, whilst certifications from The Institute of Consulting are valuable:

cmi consulting website, highlighting depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

Prospects says you’ll start as an analyst, progressing to a consultant, then a director or partner role:

snapshot of management consultant career path-one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#38 Sales Director

illustration of a professional depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £85,000
Starting Salary: £67,000
Highest Salary: £109,000

Sales directors lead teams and develop strategies to grow revenue, placing them among the best salary jobs the UK business sector provides.

Qualifications and Training

You’ll need experience in sales and a business or marketing degree. CIM training helps develop leadership skills:

cim marketing site to get info on of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

According to Indeed, start as a sales rep and move into a manager or head of sales before becoming the director.

text describing sales experience for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#39 Marketing Director

Average Salary: £82,000
Starting Salary: £65,000
Highest Salary: £104,000

Marketing directors plan and lead campaigns to grow brand awareness, attract customers, and increase sales across all platforms.

Qualifications and Training

A degree in marketing or business is essential. Digital Marketing Institute courses can also boost your expertise:

digital marketing courses, website, depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

You can move into CMO roles or start your own marketing agency or consultancy. Both are considered among the best jobs that pay well for experienced professionals with a strategic mindset.

Skilled Professions and Other Sectors

#40 Chief Executive Officer

Average Salary: £91,000
Starting Salary: £58,000
Highest Salary: £144,000

CEOs lead companies by setting strategic direction and making decisions that drive business growth and profitability.

Qualifications and Training

Most CEOs hold degrees in business or economics. An MBA and CMI leadership training are also useful:

cmi we depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

Experienced CEOs often become investors, board advisors, or launch new companies in emerging sectors. If you’re passionate about fitness, having CEO expertise can help you start your own home fitness business.

#41 Electrician

illustration of a confident man highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £33,000
Starting Salary: £29,000
Highest Salary: £38,000

Electricians install and maintain electrical systems, ensuring safety and compliance in homes, businesses, and industrial settings.

Qualifications and Training

An apprenticeship and NVQ or City & Guilds qualifications are required. You can also have ongoing training that builds specialist skills:

snapshot of electrician apprenticeship site-one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

Career Progression

The National Careers Service says you can move into supervisory or project management roles, or even start your own firm.

snapshot of electrician career path-one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#42 Plumber

illustration of a plumber depicting highest paying jobs in the uk

Average Salary: £32,000
Starting Salary: £28,000
Highest Salary: £37,000

Being a plumber is one of the occupations that pays well because it requires completing vocational training and apprenticeships. You’ll install and maintain water, heating, and drainage systems to ensure essential services run smoothly.

Qualifications and Training

Complete an apprenticeship and gain NVQ or City & Guilds qualifications. CIPHE-approved courses also help with job prospects:

snapshot of CIPHE apprenticehips for plumbers one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

Career Progression

National Careers’ website proves you can specialise in heat pumps or oil systems with OFTEC training, boosting income potential:

snapshot of career path for plumbers one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#43 Veterinarian

Average Salary: £34,000
Starting Salary: £29,000
Highest Salary: £41,000

Veterinarians treat and diagnose animals, perform surgery, and advise owners on health and welfare.

Qualifications and Training

You’ll need a degree in Veterinary Medicine, and to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

homepage of veterinary standards, info on one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

Prospects says vets can specialise in surgery, dermatology, manage a practice, or move into teaching.

veterinary career paths, one of highest paying jobs in the uk

#44 Social Media Manager

Average Salary: £33,000
Starting Salary: £27,000
Highest Salary: £41,000

Social media managers create content, grow audiences, and manage brand presence across social platforms, making it a prime example of good paying jobs in the UK for those with digital skills.

Qualifications and Training

A degree in marketing or communications is helpful, whilst training such as Meta certifications can add employability value.

snapshot of courses for social media manager-one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

Career Progression:

The National Careers website says you can become head of social, work in consultancy, or specialise in online community management.
You may also specialise in other areas where you can become an online community manager connecting consumers and brands.

snapshot of career path for social media manager-one of the highest paying jobs in the UK

#45 E-Commerce Business Owner

Average Salary: £27,000
Starting Salary: £42,000
Highest Salary: £66,000

E-commerce owners manage online businesses, selling products and handling marketing, logistics, and customer service.

Qualifications and Training

Courses from Shopify Compass or Google Digital Garage teach essential skills for this role.

homepage of google’s digital skills site for one of highest paying jobs in the uk

If you’re passionate about fitness, completing a Level 3 PT qualification can help you with creating an online platform to sell fitness programmes other specialist services.

Career Progression

On the Jobtrees website, you can expand your store, enter new markets, or invest in other digital businesses.

snapshot of business owner career prospects, one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#46 Architect

Average Salary: £35,000
Starting Salary: £26,000
Highest Salary: £46,000

Architects design buildings, produce construction plans, and oversee projects from concept to completion.

Qualifications and Training

You’ll need to complete an RIBA or ARB-accredited degree, whilst gaining practical experience for Chartered Status:

homepage of the arb, registration for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

On the Prospects website, it says you can specialise in sustainability, lead commercial projects, or open your own architectural firm.

architect career prospects for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#47 Psychologist

Average Salary: £36,000
Starting Salary: £27,000
Highest Salary: £48,000

Psychologists study behaviour and mental health, helping clients manage emotions and improve well-being.

Qualifications and Training

You need a BPS-accredited psychology degree, postgraduate training, and HCPC registration to practise:

homepage of the hcpc for one of highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

The BPS website says you can either become a specialist, work in private practice, or teach future psychologists:

psychologist career prospects for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#48 Construction Manager

Average Salary: £55,000
Starting Salary: £44,000
Highest Salary: £69,000

Construction managers lead building projects, manage teams, ensure compliance, and solve site issues.

Qualifications and Training

You’ll need a construction management degree and CIOB membership. CPD courses will improve your chances of receiving a promotion:

homepage banner from ciob courses for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression:

If you visit the National Careers website, it says you can consult, specialise in inspections, or lead larger projects.

construction-manager-career-prospects-for-one-of-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-the-uk

#49 Oil Rig Worker

Average Salary: £28,000
Starting Salary: £22,000
Highest Salary: £35,000

Oil rig workers operate drilling equipment and ensure safety during offshore extraction operations.

Qualifications and Training

NVQs in offshore engineering and BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training) safety training are essential for working on rigs.

Career Progression

The National Careers website says you can progress to supervisory roles or manage drilling operations with experience.

image of oil rig worker career path, one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#50 Property Developer

Average Salary: £46,000
Starting Salary: £32,000
Highest Salary: £65,000

Property developers buy, renovate, or build real estate for profit, managing projects from start to finish.

Qualifications and Training

Construction, real estate, or finance knowledge is essential for this role. You can also develop your skills through RICS.

homepage of rics courses, for one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

PeopleHawk says you can expand your portfolio or manage larger commercial developments.

property developer career path, one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

#51 Entrepreneur

Salary: Unlimited earning potential

Entrepreneurs create and run businesses, overseeing funding, growth, strategy, and operations across various industries. It’s one of the most dynamic high-income careers, offering flexibility and unlimited earning potential.

Qualifications and Training

Business experience and online training from providers like Coursera or King’s Trust help develop essential skills and knowledge for this role:

cropped image illustrating a depicting one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Career Progression

Entrepreneurs can evolve into serial founders, invest in other ventures, or grow their business into a national or global brand.

Find Your Dream Career At OriGym

Looking for a high-paying career in a thriving industry? OriGym’s Personal Trainer Diploma gives you the skills and qualifications to succeed in the fitness sector and start earning quickly.

Get in touch today to take the first step toward your new career.

FAQs

Do you need a degree for high-paying jobs in the UK?

graphic for gap and gown for university

Many UK industries now value practical skills, experience, and professional qualifications over degrees. Fields like tech, trades, and fitness often reward ability and initiative more than academic credentials.

Whether you’re coding, training clients, or fixing boilers, strong skills and certifications can lead to high earnings—no lecture hall required.

If uni’s not for you, check out our blog on high-paying jobs that don’t need a degree. It’s full of career ideas and next steps.

Which industries pay the most in the UK?

graphic of money representing cash you could earn in one of the highest paying jobs in the uk

Top-paying sectors include:

  • Finance
  • Tech
  • Law
  • Engineering
  • Healthcare

But other areas offer great earnings too. Skilled trades, sales, and fitness can pay well when you build expertise and client trust.

For example, the healthcare sector is currently booming. UK wages are set to rise from £70.09bn in 2024 to £75.63bn by 2028.

Demand for people-focused roles in health and wellness is growing fast, and employers are offering competitive salaries, even without degrees. What matters most is what you know and how you apply it.

How can I transition into a high-paying career?

two people discussing career changes into one of the highest paying careers in the UK

Start by choosing a career with strong demand and a skills gap. Then get qualified and start applying your knowledge.

Love health and fitness? OriGym’s personal training courses give you everything you need to start a successful, degree-free career.

The ONS says industries that adapt and invest in upskilling offer more stable, better-paid roles. Whether it’s training, networking, or following trends, the more you grow, the more you earn.

Enquire Now

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  • Qualify & start earning in just 12 weeks

  • Study full-time, part-time or online

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About the Author: Liam Donohoe

liam donohoe origym authour
Liam graduated from Liverpool John Moores University with a 2:1 in BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing. He has also co-written a short film that has been featured in several film festivals. In October 2023, he ran and completed his first half marathon and for 2024, he's now training to complete his first metric marathon. In his spare time, Liam likes to teach himself German, read books, lift weights and listen to metal music that only passionate fans of the genre will understand.

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