Compare career salary benchmarks, education requirements, job demand and career growth so you can make better-informed education and career decisions.
Software developers design and build applications, software systems and digital products across many industries.
Data scientists use statistical and computational methods to analyze data and help organizations make decisions.
AI and machine learning specialists build intelligent systems, models and applications using data and computational methods.
Information security analysts help protect organizations' networks, systems and data from security threats.
Financial analysts evaluate financial information, markets and business performance to support investment and business decisions.
Database architects design and maintain data systems that allow organizations to store, organize and protect large amounts of information.
Product managers coordinate product strategy, customer needs, development priorities and business goals.
Research scientists develop new computing methods, algorithms and technologies across AI, software and advanced computing.
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Explore fields where specialized skills can lead to strong earning potential.
AI, machine learning, research and intelligent software systems.
Software development, cloud, databases and technology infrastructure.
Information security, risk management and security engineering.
Data science, statistics, analytics and business intelligence.
Financial analysis, investment and corporate finance careers.
Product, project, operations and strategic management careers.
Salary information can be useful when comparing career options, but salary should not be the only factor in an education or career decision.
A median salary represents the midpoint of a group: half of workers earn more and half earn less. Median figures can therefore be useful for comparing occupations without being heavily influenced by extremely high or low salaries.
Entry-level professionals typically earn less than experienced workers. As professionals gain specialized skills, responsibility and industry experience, their earning potential may increase.
The same job can have very different compensation depending on country, region and city. Cost of living can also vary substantially, so a higher salary does not automatically mean a higher standard of living.
Specialized technical skills, leadership abilities, industry knowledge and experience can affect compensation. For example, software, data and cybersecurity roles often require specialized skills and may have different compensation levels depending on the employer and specialization.
Consider your interests, strengths, education costs, job outlook, working environment, career progression and personal goals alongside salary.
Selected U.S. salary benchmarks for comparison.
| Career | Field | Median / Benchmark | Education | Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | Technology | $133,080 | Bachelor's | 15% growth |
| Data Scientist | Data | $112,590 | Bachelor's | 34% growth |
| Information Security Analyst | Cybersecurity | $124,910 | Bachelor's | Strong growth |
| Financial Analyst | Finance | $101,910 | Bachelor's | Growing |
| Computer & Information Research Scientist | Research / AI | $140,300* | Master's+ | Strong |
Common questions about career salary information.
There is no single highest-paying career for everyone. Compensation varies by country, specialization, experience, employer and industry. Advanced technology, medicine, finance, executive and specialized professional roles can have high earning potential.
Technology compensation varies significantly by specialization. Advanced research, software, data, AI, cybersecurity, cloud and technology leadership roles can have strong earning potential.
Yes. Some high-paying occupations commonly require a bachelor's degree rather than a master's. Software development is one example. However, requirements vary by employer and specialization.
No. Salary is only one factor. Job satisfaction, work-life balance, career growth, education cost, location, stability and your personal interests should also be considered.
No. The figures are benchmarks and should not be interpreted as guaranteed earnings. Actual compensation depends on many factors, including location, experience, employer and specialization.
Salary pages should be reviewed regularly because labor-market conditions, compensation and occupational outlook data change over time. Always check the publication date and source of a salary figure.
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