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Do you feel like your job is taking a toll on your mental health? There’s no need for it to be with the number of low-stress jobs that pay well for a better work-life balance.
When it comes to choosing a career, many people prioritize finding a job that pays well and offers job security. But it’s also important to consider the level of stress associated with different jobs.
This is especially true for those that are prone to anxiety because your job can greatly exacerbate those feelings if you aren’t careful.
No matter what type of job you do, some amount of stress is inevitable.
However, when it comes to long-term job satisfaction, it’s important to choose a career that won’t take such a toll on your mental and physical health.
A low-stress job can provide the opportunity to earn more money without sacrificing your well-being.
From data entry positions to web developers, and even yoga instructors—there are all kinds of different low-stress jobs out there.
We’ll also provide some background information about each job as well as the median annual salary and education level requirements for each job.
So if you’re ready to kick off a new career in a chill environment, keep reading!
What Makes a Job “Low-Stress?”
Having a low-stress job is something many of us aspire to achieve, but what exactly makes a job low-stress?
A few common causes of stress in the workplace include:
- The unpredictability of work and uncertainty of pay
- High workloads and/or unreasonable deadlines
- Lack of control over the work situation, which makes employees feel powerless and overwhelmed
Fortunately, there are several strategies employers can use to create low-stress jobs for their employees:
- Providing clear expectations and deadlines helps minimize uncertainty and provides structure
- Offering support systems such as flexible scheduling, appropriate resources, and proper training
- Less micro-managing and giving employees autonomy over their work
With these strategies in place, employers can create an environment that reduces stress and allows employees to focus on their job duties without the fear of excessive pressure or expectations.
So, what are some of the best low-stress jobs out there?
32 Low-Stress Jobs: Higher Pay and Higher Chill
1. Data Entry Clerk
A data entry clerk is one of the best low-stress jobs that pay well. Data entry clerks enter data into electronic forms, databases, and spreadsheets.
They also help to maintain the accuracy and integrity of data within an organization by verifying, sorting, correcting, coding, and entering data into computer systems.
This low-stress job involves a lot of typing but often little interaction with others and can be done from home or in an office.
- Education Requirements: None!
- Average Annual Salary: $39,449 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Data Entry Clerk Jobs: Upwork, FlexJobs, Indeed, Freelancer
Related: Best Online Typing Jobs to Earn $20+/Hr
2. Web Developer
Web developers create and maintain websites for individuals, businesses, and organizations. They’re responsible for the coding, design, layout, and content of a website.
This job requires knowledge of coding languages such as HTML and JavaScript as well as well as experience with popular blogging platforms such as WordPress.
Web developers are typically self-driven which allows them to work at their own pace within the given deadlines.
- Education Requirements: A Bachelor’s degree in computer science, web development, or a related field can be helpful but it’s not required. Some web developers are self-taught.
- Median Annual Salary: $82,516 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Web Developer Jobs: Upwork, FlexJobs, LinkedIn, GlassDoor
Web developers design, create, and maintain websites. They work with coding languages such as HTML and JavaScript to build the site’s layout and content.
3. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant (VA) is a low-stress job that pays well and it can honestly be one of the least-stressful jobs out there, depending on who you are working for.
A VA provides administrative or technical support to clients from their own home or office.
This can include tasks such as data entry, scheduling appointments, social media management, customer service, and more.
VAs generally have flexible hours and can work remotely, making it a great job for those who don’t want to commute.
- Education Requirements: Generally none, but it may depend on what kind of work the job description requires. Some experience may be required, depending on the job.
- Average Annual Salary: $59,153 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Virtual Assistant Jobs: FlexJobs, Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, VA Jobs
4. Graphic Designer
Graphic design is another great job option for those seeking stress-free jobs.
Graphic designers are responsible for creating visual elements such as logos, layouts, and other visual images used in print or digital media.
They use a variety of tools such as typography, photography, illustration, animation, video production, and more to create images and designs that are visually appealing.
Graphic design is a creative job, but it also requires a certain level of technical skill which can be learned with practice.
- Education Requirements: Self-taught graphic designers with no background education are very common these days, although you should have some experience with popular design software like Canva and Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Knowledge of or experience with digital marketing is also helpful.
- Median Annual Salary: $55,468 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Graphic Designer Jobs: Fiverr, Dribble, Upwork, FlexJobs, Indeed
Related: Best Stay-at-Home Mom Jobs
5. Blogger
A blog is a website that has educational or informational content, in the form of blog posts or articles, on it that provide value to readers.
This content may be related to a specific topic or theme, such as travel, lifestyle, food, fashion, parenting, pets, etc.
Bloggers should have good writing skills and an understanding of SEO (search engine optimization) to optimize their reach.
Bloggers can make money through ad revenue, sponsorship deals, affiliate marketing, and selling products.
- Education Requirements: None! With the right setup and guidance, anyone can start blogging and make great money doing it.
- Average Annual Salary: $42,020 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Blogger Jobs: 30+ Sites to Find Blogging Jobs
Related: Highest-Paid and Successful Bloggers
6. Yoga Instructor
Yoga is one of the most popular forms of exercise and a great low-stress job.
Yoga instructors teach classes in private or group settings, helping people to improve their physical and mental health.
They lead students through various poses, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques.
It’s a fun job that allows you to be creative while also providing an opportunity for personal growth.
- Education Requirements: Yoga teacher certification, usually at least 200 hours
- Median Annual Salary: $63,629 (ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Yoga Jobs: Yoga Trade, Indeed, LinkedIn, CorePower Yoga
7. Customer Service Representative
Customer service representatives or online chat agents are also great low-stress jobs, depending on the company you work for and the work environment.
Customer service representatives help customers with their inquiries or complaints via phone, email, live chat, etc.
This can be one of the more stressful jobs if you work for a company that gets a lot of angry customers calling in (like the airline companies).
Choose your employer wisely and read reviews about the company before joining.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Average Annual Salary: $59,119 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Customer Service Representative Jobs: FlexJobs, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, LinkedIn, CareerBuilder
8. Freelance Writer
Freelance writing is a great low-stress job that pays well and allows you to work from home.
As a freelance writer, you write content for businesses such as websites, blogs, articles, newsletters, and more.
You can specialize in a particular niche or genre like finance, health and wellness, travel, lifestyle etc.
Freelance writers should have strong writing skills, a good understanding of grammar and punctuation rules, and some knowledge of SEO.
- Education Requirements: None, depending on what kind of writing you are doing.
- Median Annual Salary: $51,128 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Freelance Writer Jobs: Best freelance writing websites to earn money
Related: Best Freelance Writing Websites to Earn Money
9. Massage Therapist
A massage therapist is someone who uses a variety of massage techniques to help improve the health and well-being of their clients.
They work in clinics, spas, or even in private homes and provide therapeutic massages that can relieve stress, physical pain, and tension.
Massage therapists must have strong knowledge of anatomy and physiology, as well as different massage techniques.
They must also be able to communicate with clients effectively and create a calming atmosphere for their clients.
- Education Requirements: Most states require massage therapists to have an associate’s degree in massage therapy or a related field and successful completion of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) exam.
- Average Annual Salary: $60,196 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Massage Therapist Jobs: American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), Indeed, ZipRecruiter, CareerBuilder.
10. Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Medical billing and coding is a great stress-free job with good pay, stability, and flexibility.
It’s a necessary part of the healthcare industry as medical coders are responsible for assigning codes to medical procedures so that they can be billed correctly by insurance companies.
Medical billers and coders must have a comprehensive understanding of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical reports, as well as ICD-10 and CPT coding.
If the healthcare sector is up your alley, you could also consider becoming a medical records technician.
- Education Requirements: Certificate in medical billing and coding or an associate’s degree in a related field.
- Median Annual Salary: $44,887 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Medical Billing and Coding Jobs: AAPC, MonsterJobs, ZipRecruiter, Indeed, LinkedIn
11. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists are responsible for transcribing audio and video recordings into written documents.
It requires strong typing skills, as well as a good understanding of grammar and punctuation rules to produce accurate transcripts in a timely manner.
It’s one of the least-stressful jobs since you can work from home or any other remote location as long as you have a computer and internet access.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Average Annual Salary: $47,842 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Transcriptionist Jobs: Rev, TranscribeMe!, Scribie, Way With Words, CastingWords
12. Social Media Manager
Social media managers are responsible for managing social media accounts, including content creation, audience engagement, and analytics.
This can be for small businesses like bloggers or larger corporations or organizations.
It’s a great low-stress job that pays well and allows you to work from home.
A social media manager should also have good organizational skills and be able to create an effective content strategy for various social media platforms.
- Education Requirements: No formal education required, depending on the role you are applying for.
- Median Annual Salary: $56,965 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Social Media Manager Jobs: Fiverr, FlexJobs, Upwork, Indeed, Freelancer
13. Bookkeeper
A bookkeeper’s job is to keep detailed financial records for a company or business.
They are responsible for managing accounts payable/receivable, bank reconciliations, payroll, taxes, and more.
Bookkeepers must be organized and detail-oriented in order to complete their tasks accurately and efficiently.
This is a great low-stress job that pays well and provides a lot of job security because it’s a job that is always in demand.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may require certification in bookkeeping.
- Average Annual Salary: $43,081 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Bookkeeper Jobs: FlexJobs, Upwork, LinkedIn, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, Indeed
14. Librarian
Librarians are responsible for managing a library’s collection of books, periodicals, and other materials.
They must possess strong organizational skills and be able to help patrons find the information they need quickly and accurately.
Librarians must also be knowledgeable about current technology to help patrons use library resources effectively.
It’s a great low-stress job that pays well and provides job stability.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in library science or a related field.
- Median Annual Salary: $55,780 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Librarian Jobs: American Library Association, Indeed, HigherEd, LinkedIn
15. Interior Designer
Interior designers create and plan decorative spaces for homes, businesses, and other buildings.
They must have an eye for design as they select furniture, color schemes, lighting, fabrics, window treatments, and more.
Interior designers must also understand building codes and be able to work within a client’s budget.
It’s one of the best low-stress jobs for those looking for a good work-life balance because you can choose your clients and how often you want to work.
- Education Requirements: An associate’s degree is necessary to be certified, but many interior designers these days are self-taught
- Average Annual Salary: $66,607 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Interior Designer Jobs: Indeed, GlassDoor, LinkedIn, InteriorDesign
Related: How to Become an Interior Designer Without a Degree
16. Personal Trainer
Personal trainers help their clients reach their fitness goals by designing and implementing personalized exercise programs.
They must be knowledgeable about anatomy, nutrition, physiology, and kinesiology to provide the most effective training possible.
Personal trainers should also have excellent communication and motivational skills to keep their clients motivated and on track towards achieving their fitness goals.
It’s a great job for those looking for a decent salary, a good work-life balance, and a low-stress career.
- Education Requirements: Personal training certification from an accredited organization such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE).
- Median Annual Salary: $41,377 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Personal Trainer Jobs: Indeed, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, Local gyms
17. Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents help people buy and sell homes by listing properties, negotiating contracts, and helping their clients find the best deals.
They must be knowledgeable about local market conditions and be able to provide their clients with the resources they need to make informed decisions.
Real estate agents must also have great communication and stress tolerance skills to handle the job’s demands.
It’s a great job for those with low-stress tolerance for those looking for a low-stress environment.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent. Some states may require agents to have a real estate license.
- Average Annual Salary: $96,146 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Real Estate Agent Jobs: LinkedIn, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, MonsterJobs
18. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists perform preventative and therapeutic oral health care by cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and providing guidance on proper oral hygiene.
They must be knowledgeable about dental procedures, anatomy, and the latest techniques to provide quality care.
This is a great low-stress job that provides job security and good pay.
- Education Requirements: Associate’s degree in dental hygiene from an accredited program. In order to become a dentist, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, dental school, and sometimes a dental residency.
- Median Annual Salary: $84,860 (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Where to Find Dental Hygienist Jobs: Indeed, GlassDoor, ZipRecruiter, USAJobs
19. Dietician
Dieticians provide nutrition advice and counseling to help people make healthy lifestyle choices.
They must be knowledgeable of food science, nutrition, physiology, diet planning, and health promotion principles to create effective meal plans for their clients.
It’s a great job for those with an interest in nutrition and health, and it provides stability and good pay.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in nutrition science, dietetics, food science, or a related field and licensure or certification from a recognized accrediting organization.
- Average Annual Salary: $69,350 (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Where to Find Dietician Jobs: Nutrition Jobs, Nutrition Ed, Indeed, Fresenius Medical Care
20. Hair Stylist
Hair stylists provide haircuts, coloring, styling, and other hair services for their clients.
They must be knowledgeable about the latest hairstyling techniques and products to provide quality services.
This is a great job for those with an interest in fashion and beauty or who have good social skills.
If the thought of meeting new people and chatting with them all day long raises your stress levels, this probably isn’t going to be a stress-free job for you.
But if chatty clients aren’t a problem, this job provides an excellent work-life balance with flexible hours and the opportunity to make extra money.
- Education Requirements: No formal education, but you will need a cosmetology or barbering license from an accredited program.
- Median Annual Salary: $39,962 (Source: Glassdoor)
- Where to Find Hair Stylist Jobs: Indeed, LinkedIn, Look in your local area
21. Carpenter
Carpenters are skilled craftspeople who construct, install, and repair structures made of wood, concrete, and other materials.
They must be knowledgeable about tools, building codes, math, reading plans and blueprints in order to build structures safely and efficiently.
It’s a great job for those with low-stress tolerance who are looking for a hands-on career.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent with vocational training in carpentry. Some states may require a license or certification from an accredited program.
- Average Annual Salary: $61,186 (Source: Salary.com)
- Where to Find Carpenter Jobs: Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, PeopleReady
22. Cartographer
Cartographers are responsible for creating maps and other geographic data to be used for a variety of purposes.
They must have good knowledge of geography, computer software programs related to mapping, and mathematics to plot points accurately.
This is a well-paying job for those with an interest in geography who want to work with computers and don’t mind staring at maps all day.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in cartography, geography, GIS, or a related field.
- Median Annual Salary: $80,531 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Cartographer Jobs: Indeed, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, LinkedIn
23. Actuary
Actuaries use mathematics and statistics to analyze risk in the insurance industry.
They develop models to assess the probability of certain events occurring and advise their clients on how best to minimize their losses.
Actuaries must have a strong understanding of mathematics, statistics, economics, and finance to perform their job effectively.
This is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-paying job in the insurance industry.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in actuarial science, mathematics, statistics, or a related field. Licensing from either the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) or the Society of Actuaries (SOA) is also required.
- Average Annual Salary: $126,078 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Actuary Jobs: ProActuary, Society of Actuaries, Indeed, LinkedIn
24. Proofreader
Proofreaders are responsible for reviewing written material and ensuring it is free of errors.
They check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and other technical aspects of the writing to ensure accuracy.
This job requires keen attention to detail and an excellent command of language.
It’s a great choice for those looking for flexible hours while avoiding high-stress situations.
- Education Requirements: Some jobs may require a Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, or a related field.
- Median Annual Salary: $51,151 (Source: Indeed)
- Where to Find Proofreader Jobs: Fiverr, Upwork, FlexJobs, LionBridge, Freelancer
Related: Best Proofreading Jobs to Earn $50+/Hr
25. Economist
Economists study the production and distribution of goods and services, as well as their impact on people’s lives.
They are responsible for analyzing data from economic theories, surveys, and experiments to help provide insights into how markets work.
Economists must have good analytical and problem-solving skills to be successful in this field.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in economics or a related field. Master’s degree and/or PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
- Average Annual Salary: $105,630 (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Where to Find Economist Jobs: American Economic Association, Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, USAJobs
26. Mathematician
Mathematicians use mathematics and statistics to solve complex problems. They analyze data, develop models, and conduct research to find solutions.
They must have strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of the principles of math.
his is an ideal low-stress career for those who prefer to work independently and think creatively.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics or a related field. Master’s degree or PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
- Median Annual Salary: $67,174 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Mathematician Jobs: Math Jobs,Indeed, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter
27. Political Scientist
Political scientists study the origins, development, and operation of political systems. They analyze data and research to understand how political parties, governments, and international organizations function.
They must have a deep understanding of history, government structures, and current events.
This is an excellent choice for those interested in politics who want to work with computers and data analysis.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree and/or PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
- Average Annual Salary: $72,176 (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Where to Find Political Science Jobs: Indeed, LinkedIn
FAQs About Low-Stress Jobs
What is the least stressful job?
The least stressful job is often considered to be one that involves minimal physical and mental effort. Examples of low-stress jobs include librarian, historian, accountant, audiologist, or dietician. Many of these jobs involve working with computers or books and can be done in a low-pressure environment. These jobs typically require a college degree or specialized training, and the pay is often commensurate with that level of education.
What jobs pay well but are low-stress?
Certain jobs that offer good pay and low stress include financial analyst, software engineer, marketing specialist, web developer, database administrator, accountant, physical therapist, and medical records technician. These positions typically require a college degree as well as specialized skills and knowledge. They typically involve working with numbers, using technology, or providing healthcare services.
What’s a good job for someone with anxiety?
A good job for people with anxiety is one that allows individuals to work independently and from home. These types of jobs include telecommuting, freelance work, copywriting, web design, blogging, and transcription. Working from home often decreases anxiety as it eliminates the stress of being around unfamiliar people, as well as the need for social interaction.
How do I get a job with severe anxiety?
Finding a job with severe anxiety can seem daunting, but there are resources and strategies available to help you. It is important to understand your strengths and weaknesses and to develop a plan that includes a job search strategy as well as self-care practices. Consider talking to a mental health professional about your anxiety and your job search goals, as they can provide guidance on how to navigate the process. Additionally, focusing on finding an employer that is understanding of mental health issues can give you a better chance of success. Finally, look for job postings that list accommodations and flexible work hours, as these may be more suitable for someone with severe anxiety.
Key Takeaways: Low-Stress Jobs
With patience and persistence, you can create your ideal career path with a better work-life balance and a low-stress environment.
Many of these less stressful jobs involve working with computers or books or things that aren’t people as people can often cause stress!
Some of them require a Bachelor’s degree or specialized training but some don’t.
If the work-life balance is really important to you, consider jobs that provide flexible work schedules or the ability to work from home.
These are just a few of the many low-stress jobs available.
With the right skills and knowledge, you can find a job that works for your lifestyle and financial needs.