Some professions are inherently more stressful than others. However, in recent years, the world of work has undergone significant changes—new jobs have been created while technology has rendered others obsolete. The pandemic and remote work, followed by the return to offices, have also affected stress levels.
What exactly constitutes a “low-stress job”? It depends on how one defines stress, and of course, some people cannot change jobs or quit. However, if you’re considering finding a less stressful job with a decent salary and job security, there are opportunities in many fields.
Keep reading to explore a list of the least stressful and well-paid professions (according to reports from CareerCast and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics BLS), along with tips on managing stress at work.
1. Data Scientist
A data scientist’s job involves evaluating and providing information to employers, often working within the tech industry.
Data scientists typically have a background in mathematics and computer science, as the job requires specific expertise. According to BLS, this sector is expected to grow by 23% by 2032, making it an excellent field for new entrants.
Data Scientists usually work independently and often have the option to work from home, making this role ideal for introverts.
Median salary: $145,080
Education: Master’s degree or higher
2. Software Developer
These professionals design and create programs, games, or applications. For the most part, developers experience low levels of stress as they work independently. Although they have deadlines and occasionally collaborate with other departments, most developers have flexible schedules and can work remotely.
Median salary: $130,160
Education: Bachelor’s degree in software development, computer science, or a related field
3. Medical Records Technician
The healthcare sector is often associated with stressful work, irregular hours, and demanding conditions, especially during pandemics. However, the role of a medical records technician defies this trend. This position is designed to organize and manage patient information. The career growth prospects are about average, with a projected 8% increase in job opportunities by 2032.
Median salary: $48,780
Education: Post-secondary certificate or associate degree
4. Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapy is a healthcare practice area that can help you make significant changes in someone’s life. It involves helping patients adapt to daily life, overcome pain, and recover from illness. The goal is to help them care for themselves or return to work.
Job prospects in this field are expected to grow by 12% by 2032, much faster than the average growth rate.
Median salary: $96,370
Education: Master’s degree in occupational therapy
5. Art Director
There’s no better way to avoid stress than by doing what you love. Artists can leverage their skills to climb the career ladder as art directors. In this role, your job involves creating design concepts and presentations for advertising campaigns, social media communications, and more.
Many organizations hire art directors, so career options are diverse. There’s also the possibility of working as a freelancer or independent contractor.
Median salary: $106,500
Education: Bachelor’s degree in art, graphic design, or related creative fields
6. Orthodontist
Orthodontics is a high-paying field that doesn’t come with a lot of daily stress. While other healthcare professionals often deliver bad news or work with sick patients, orthodontists usually have little to worry about. They simply focus on creating beautiful smiles that make patients happy!
This career path requires hard work, but it is well-compensated and in demand.
Median salary: $243,620
Education: Doctor of Dental Medicine specializing in orthodontics
7. Dietitian
Dietitians work with individuals or entire families to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle and achieve health-related goals. Dietitians can assist with weight management or plan diverse, vitamin-rich menus. Job opportunities for dietitians are expected to grow by about 7% by 2032, which is roughly average for all occupations.
Median salary: $69,680
Education: Bachelor’s degree
8. Massage Therapist
Job seekers looking for a calm and serene work environment should consider a career as a massage therapist. Interestingly, massage therapy services can cater to less demanding clients, and the entry barriers are relatively low. Moreover, demand for massage therapists is expected to grow by about 18%.
Licensed massage therapists can work in various settings, including spas, clinics, or as self-employed professionals.
Median salary: $55,310
Education: Professional certification and state license
9. Librarian
If you’re considering a career change, this low-stress job can be fulfilling, with employment opportunities not limited to public libraries. Schools, universities, law firms, and museums often hire librarians or research librarians for various tasks. According to BLS, the average salary exceeds $60,000, though you may need a master’s degree for a top job in this field.
Median salary: $64,370
Education: Master’s degree
10. Appliance Repairer
If you’re good with tools and looking for a job that’s almost always in demand, a career in appliance repair might be right for you. Depending on the area, you may also need additional certifications. Some repair specialists can earn significantly more than $70,000.
Median salary: $46,700
Education: High school diploma
How to manage stress at work?
If your job is stressful, it’s crucial to find productive ways to cope with it—though this depends on the nature of your profession. If you have a physically demanding job, consider setting aside time for regular meditation, reading, or other low-activity pursuits. If your job involves sitting for most of the day, vigorous physical exercise can really help you unwind.
These additional tips can help you manage stress and boost productivity:
- Manage your time effectively
Nothing is more frustrating than an unfinished to-do list, but sometimes the problem isn’t us, it’s the list. Instead of adding an entire project to your to-do list, think about the project’s scope, prioritize the most critical elements, and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks that can be completed by the end of each day. This strategy will help you meet deadlines and avoid feeling completely drained at the finish line.
- Set boundaries
Today, more than ever, work can follow us home. Smartphones can tether us to the office if we don’t set clear boundaries. For those who literally work from home, separating personal and professional time can be even more challenging. If an email or phone call comes in outside of work hours, try not to respond. Remove work email from your phone or get a device dedicated to work that you can turn off at the end of the day—this will give you a break, which, in turn, will boost your energy and focus when it’s time to work again.
- Find positive outlets
Stress is a fact of life, and while we can’t eliminate it completely, we can control how we respond to it. Avoid unhealthy coping strategies, such as eating junk food or drinking alcohol to relieve anxiety. Instead, engage in exercise or activities that relax you—solve a crossword puzzle, or spend time with family and friends. If you can share your work concerns with someone, do so. The key is to engage in healthy activities that bring you comfort.
