10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in the U.S. With Salaries 2026

You don’t have to guess where the opportunities are—the U.S. job market makes it clear. Fields like health care, renewable energy, and technology are creating some of the fastest-growing careers. If you’re starting out or considering a change, these roles can give you stability and strong salaries.

In this list, you’ll see jobs with details on what you’d do, how much they pay, and where demand is rising. The following career information was gathered based on the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Trending Industries Creating the Most Growth

Some industries are leading the way in creating jobs across the U.S., thanks to shifting demographics, new technology, and changes in how we work and live. These areas are expected to keep growing in the years ahead.

• Renewable energy: Wind and solar jobs are growing quickly as the U.S. invests more in sustainable energy sources.
• Health care: Demand for nurses, physician assistants, therapists, and health aides is rising due to an aging population.
• Technology and cybersecurity: Careers in data science, information security, and computer research are expanding as businesses depend more on digital systems.
• Mental health services: The need for counselors, psychiatric technicians, and behavioral health specialists is increasing as awareness of mental health grows.
• Higher education and training: Colleges are hiring more instructors in nursing and health specialties to prepare the next generation of professionals.
• Financial services: Jobs in financial compliance, actuarial science, and operations research are growing as the economy becomes more complex.

20 Fastest-Growing Jobs in the U.S. With Salaries

These jobs reflect industries with strong demand, competitive pay, and clear career pathways. Whether you’re starting out, switching fields, or upskilling, you’ll find roles in health care, tech, trades, and green energy that offer solid entry points, advancement options, and realistic earning potential. Job growth information reflects the BLS’s projection for the next 10 years.

1. Wind Turbine Service Technicians

To get started as a wind turbine service technician (often called a windtech) you’ll usually complete a technical certificate program and receive on-the-job training. It’s a hands-on role where you’ll climb towers, inspect equipment, and troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems to keep turbines running smoothly. Careers are available with renewable energy firms, manufacturers, and independent contractors.

• Job growth: 50%
• Median salary: $62,580

2. Solar Photovoltaic Installers

Most solar photovoltaic installers enter the field with a high school diploma, though many take short courses through community colleges or technical schools. Much of the training happens on the job, giving you real-world experience installing and maintaining solar panel systems. Work settings range from electrical contractors to solar energy companies.

• Job growth: 42%
• Median salary: $51,860

3. Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners usually begin as registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree before advancing into a master’s or doctoral program in nursing. In this role, you’ll diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. NPs often specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or family medicine, giving you flexibility in your career path.

• Job growth: 40%
• Median salary: $129,210

4. Data Scientists

To become a data scientist, most employers look for at least a bachelor’s degree in math, statistics, computer science, or a related field, though advanced degrees are common. You’ll work with large datasets, using tools like Python and R to uncover insights and guide decision-making. Data scientists are in demand across industries like health care, finance, and tech.

• Job growth: 34%
• Median salary: $112,590

5. Information Security Analysts

Information security analysts often hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related area, and many also earn certifications like CISSP or Security+. Your job is to protect systems from cyberattacks, including detecting threats, strengthening defenses, and keeping networks secure. These roles are found in industries like finance, health care, government, and technology.

• Job growth: 29%
• Median salary: $124,910

6. Medical and Health Services Managers

Medical and health services managers often come into the role with a bachelor’s degree in health administration, nursing, or business, and some go on to earn a master’s. You’ll oversee operations in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities, managing budgets, staffing, compliance, and patient services. It’s a leadership role that blends business and health care.

• Job growth: 23%
• Median salary: $117,960

7. Actuaries

Actuaries generally need a bachelor’s degree in math, statistics, or actuarial science, followed by a series of professional certification exams. Your work focuses on analyzing risk through data and statistical models, most often in insurance, finance, or consulting. By predicting costs and liabilities, actuaries help organizations make sound financial decisions.

• Job growth: 22%
• Median salary: $125,770

8. Operations Research Analysts

Most operations research analysts hold a bachelor’s degree in math, economics, or engineering, while others continue on to earn a master’s. In this job, you’ll use data and quantitative models to solve efficiency and logistics problems for industries like manufacturing, finance, or government. Your work helps organizations streamline operations and make smarter choices.

• Job growth: 21%
• Median salary: $91,290

9. Home Health and Personal Care Aides

Home health and personal care aides often qualify with a high school diploma and short-term training. You’ll assist clients in their homes or long-term care settings with tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication reminders. This is a highly hands-on role that provides essential support for older adults and people with disabilities.

• Job growth: 21%
• Median salary: $34,900

10. Computer and Information Research Scientists

Becoming a computer and information research scientist usually requires a master’s degree in computer science or a related discipline, though a bachelor’s may qualify you for some government roles. You’ll design new computing methods, algorithms, and technologies—often in areas like AI, cybersecurity, and advanced computing. Jobs are found in universities, government labs, and tech companies.

• Job growth: 20%
• Median salary: $140,910

11. Physician Assistants

Physician assistants (PAs) complete a master’s degree in an accredited PA program and obtain state licensure. Working alongside doctors in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, you’ll diagnose illnesses, order tests, prescribe medication in many states, and provide direct patient care. The role combines high responsibility with strong earning potential.

• Job growth: 20%
• Median salary: $133,260

12. Ophthalmic Medical Technicians

Ophthalmic medical technicians can enter the field with a high school diploma and on-the-job training, though many pursue certificates. You’ll assist ophthalmologists by conducting eye exams, administering medications, and teaching patients about vision care and lens use. Most work takes place in clinics or specialized eye care offices.

• Job growth: 20%
• Median salary: $44,080

13. Financial Examiners

Financial examiners generally need a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related area. Much of the learning happens through on-the-job training. You’ll review financial institutions for compliance, assess risk, and ensure stability in the banking system. Employers include banks, regulatory agencies, and state financial bodies.

• Job growth: 19%
• Median salary: $90,400

14. Occupational Therapy Assistants

Occupational therapy assistants need an associate degree from an accredited program and must pass a licensing exam. In this role, you’ll support patients under the guidance of an occupational therapist, using therapeutic activities to help them regain independence. Workplaces include clinics, hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities.

• Job growth: 19%
• Median salary: $68,340

15. Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

These counselors usually earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in counseling or a related field. In this role, you’ll work in outpatient centers, family services, or residential facilities, supporting people as they manage substance use and mental health challenges.

• Job growth: 18%
• Median salary: $59,190

16. Physical Therapist Assistants

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) earn an associate degree from an accredited program and must pass a state licensing exam, allowing them to enter the field in just a couple of years. You’ll work alongside physical therapists in hospitals, rehab centers, or nursing homes, guiding patients through exercises and treatments to restore mobility and reduce pain.

• Job growth: 16%
• Median salary: $65,510

17. Psychiatric Technicians

Psychiatric technicians often complete a postsecondary certificate, while aides may qualify with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. You’ll work in hospitals, mental health centers, or residential care facilities, assisting with daily care, monitoring patients, and supporting treatment plans. It’s a people-centered role with growing demand.

• Job growth: 16%
• Median salary: $42,590

18. Hearing Aid Specialists

Hearing aid specialists often enter the field with a high school diploma and on-the-job training, sometimes paired with certification. You’ll work directly with patients to fit and repair hearing aids, explain how to use them, and provide support in clinics, retail centers, or medical offices. It’s a technician role with strong people skills.

• Job growth: 15%
• Median salary: $53,530

19. Postsecondary Nursing Instructors and Teachers

Nursing instructors typically hold a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing, plus clinical experience. You’ll teach nursing students in colleges or universities, preparing them for patient care and licensure. Many also engage in clinical practice or research as part of their role.

• Job growth: 7%
• Median salary: $86,530

20. Postsecondary Health Specialties Teachers

Postsecondary health specialties teachers usually hold a master’s or doctoral degree in their field and often bring professional experience into the classroom. You’ll teach courses in areas like therapy, nursing, or public health at community colleges and universities. Many also take on advising or curriculum development duties.

• Job growth: 7%
• Median salary: $83,980

Fast-Growing Jobs That Don’t Require a Bachelor’s Degree

Not all fast-growing careers require a four-year degree. Many trades and technical roles offer strong demand, competitive pay, and clear pathways for entering the workforce quickly, often through vocational training, apprenticeships, or short-term certifications.

• Elevator installers and repairers: You can install and maintain elevators and escalators in various buildings, helping keep people and goods moving safely. This career typically requires a high school diploma and an apprenticeship for hands-on training.
• Massage therapists: You’ll provide therapeutic massages that help clients relax and manage stress, improving overall wellness. Most positions require a postsecondary nondegree award and state licensure.
• Plumbers: As a plumber, you’ll install and repair piping systems in homes, businesses, and factories, keeping water and gas flowing safely. This role usually requires a high school diploma and completion of an apprenticeship program.
• Firefighters: You’ll respond to emergencies, extinguish fires, and help rescue people in dangerous situations. To enter this career, you need a high school diploma, fire academy training, and EMT certification.
• Commercial pilots: You can fly cargo or passenger planes outside of airline operations, enjoying a dynamic and high-responsibility role. This career requires a high school diploma, a commercial pilot’s license, and extensive flight training.
• Diagnostic medical sonographers: In this role, you’ll use specialized imaging equipment to create detailed pictures of patients’ organs and tissues. Most employers require an associate degree and professional certification, giving you a technical but fast-entry career.
• Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics: You’ll maintain and repair aircraft and avionics systems, making sure planes stay safe and operational. This career usually requires a high school diploma and FAA certification.
• Electricians: You can install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes and businesses, keeping the lights on and machines running. Entering this field typically involves a high school diploma and an apprenticeship program.
• HVAC technicians: In this role, you’ll install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to keep spaces comfortable year-round. Most positions require a high school diploma and either vocational training or on-the-job experience.
• Carpentry and construction trades: You’ll build, repair, and maintain structures, furniture, and other wood-based projects, putting your hands-on skills to work. A high school diploma and apprenticeship or vocational training are usually enough to get started.

FAQs About Fast-Growing Jobs in the U.S.

If you’re exploring new career options, these common questions can help you understand what to expect from the fastest-growing jobs in today’s market.

What Careers Are Most In-Demand Right Now?

Right now, some of the most in-demand careers include nurse practitioners, data scientists, wind turbine technicians, and home health aides. If you’re looking for stability, these roles are strong options because they combine fast job growth with consistent demand across health care, tech, and renewable energy.

What Industries Are Growing the Fastest in the U.S.?

If you’re thinking about where to focus your job search, the fastest-growing industries include health care, renewable energy, technology and cybersecurity, financial services, and mental health support. These areas are expanding because of trends like an aging population, the push for sustainable energy, and the need for stronger digital security.

Do Fast-Growing Jobs Always Pay More?

Some fast-growing careers, like nurse practitioners or information security analysts, pay six-figure salaries, while others, such as home health aides, pay less but offer steady demand and room to grow. When you’re considering options, think about both salary and long-term opportunities for advancement.

Which Fast-Growing Jobs Require the Least Education?

If you want a fast-growing career without spending years in school, jobs like solar photovoltaic installer, home health aide, psychiatric technician, or hearing aid specialist are great options. Many of these roles only require a high school diploma, certificate, or associate degree, plus on-the-job training to get you started quickly.

How Can I Switch Into a Fast-Growing Career?

The best way to switch is to start with short-term training or certification programs that match your interests. You could take a technical course, earn a health care license, or build digital skills through online classes. Many fast-growing fields welcome career changers, so your past experience can still be valuable as you train for something new.

Are Fast-Growing Jobs Stable Long Term?

Generally, yes, fast-growing jobs tend to reflect larger economic and social trends, like the demand for health care, renewable energy, and cybersecurity. While no job is guaranteed forever, choosing a career in one of these industries can give you long-term stability and strong opportunities for advancement.

What Is the Best Career for the Next 10 Years?

There isn’t one single “best” career, but health care and tech roles stand out for long-term demand. Jobs like nurse practitioner, data scientist, and information security analyst are projected to grow quickly and pay well, making them smart choices if you’re looking for stability and strong earning potential.

What Jobs Will AI Not Replace?

AI is reshaping the job market, but careers that rely on human interaction and critical thinking are much harder to replace. Roles in health care, counseling, education, and skilled trade, like nurses, therapists, teachers, and electricians, require empathy, problem-solving, and hands-on work that technology can’t fully replicate.

What Job Has the Biggest Shortage?

Right now, health care roles face the biggest shortages, especially nurses, physician assistants, and home health aides. An aging population and rising demand for medical services mean these jobs aren’t just growing quickly—they’re also struggling to fill positions, which creates strong opportunities if you’re entering the field.

Explore Career Paths

The fastest-growing jobs offer both stability and opportunity, and the right training can help you step into these roles with confidence. Explore Learn.org degree and certificate programs that prepare you for in-demand careers, and connect with schools to find the path that best matches your goals.