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Highest Paying Jobs for Women for 2025: Salary, Job Outlook, Duties, & Requirements

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

List of Highest Paying Jobs for Women

What is the highest paying jobs for females? Our research team created a list of good careers for women. Included are the median annual wage and job outlook of each occupation based on 2022 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Reading through the list below may help you get started with your career, learn more about high paying jobs for women, or begin your efforts to advance your career.

1. Physician

Median Annual Wage (2021): $208,000+
Job Outlook (20212031): 3%

First on the list of good paying jobs for women with the highest salaries is the job of a physician. According to WebMD, the title “physician" is a general term for medical doctors. Physicians study, diagnose, and treat injuries and diseases. Generally, they are expected to acquire six main skills through medical school and practice: (1) patient care, (2) medical knowledge, (3) practice-based learning and improvement, (4) interpersonal and communication skills, (5) professionalism, and (6) systems-based practice.

Those aspiring to become physicians must first go through science-related undergraduate studies, such as a biology degree or a chemistry degree, and pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Then, they must finish medical school, complete residency training, acquire a state license, and undergo further medical education.

2. Surgeon

Median Annual Wage (2021): $208,000+
Job Outlook (20212031): 3%

In terms of their median annual wage and employment outlook, the job of a surgeon is tied with that of a physician on this list of the top paying jobs for women. A surgeon is a medical doctor specializing in assessing and treating diseases or injuries that may require surgery, which may be done to diagnose or treat conditions. Surgeons head a team of doctors and nurses when performing procedures in the operating room. Different surgeons specialize in specific areas of the body, including general surgeons, colon and rectal surgeons, and neurosurgeons, among others.

Aspiring surgeons must complete their pre-med or science-related undergraduate studies, pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), complete medical school, and undergo surgical specialty and residency

3. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Median Annual Wage (2021): $179,520
Job Outlook (20212031): 6%

CEOs, the highest-ranking executives or employees in organizations, are also among the top careers for women. They oversee their organizations’ growth, have the final say in business decisions, and typically report to a board of directors. In 2020, 29.3% of CEOs in the U.S. were women (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

CEOs usually have a bachelor’s degree in business, such as business administration or business management. Before landing their executive role, many CEOs have already had many years of on-the-job experience that have helped in skills development and professional growth. The average age of incoming CEOs in 2020 was 54 years old (Blount, S. & Leinwand, P., 2021).

4. Dentist

Median Annual Wage (2021): $163,220
Job Outlook (20212031): 6%

Dentists ensure the health of an individual’s teeth, gums, and mouth. They fill cavities, remove buildup or decay from teeth, and treat damaged teeth, among other dental procedures. To accomplish these tasks, dentists work with dental assistants, hygienists, and lab technicians. Considered one of the more lucrative professions, a dentist starting salary is above average.

Those interested in becoming dentists must have a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, such as biology, chemistry, and health. Then, they must pass an admissions test and complete dental school. After earning a doctoral degree in dental surgery or dental medicine, they must pass licensure exams to be able to practice.

5. Marketing Manager

Median Annual Wage (2021): $135,030
Job Outlook (20212031): 10%

The field of marketing involves company activities that promote the buying and selling of the company’s products or services. Marketing managers, alongside their own teams, plan and oversee marketing campaigns for awareness-raising, customer conversion, and customer retention. These campaigns include various activities released on different platforms, such as social media, email, and websites.

To become a marketing manager, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in marketing and have enough years of professional experience, starting as an entry-level employee in an organization’s marketing team.

6. Pharmacist

Median Annual Wage (2021): $128,570
Job Outlook (20212031): 2%

Pharmacists are trained to ensure the right method of using, storing, preserving, and providing medicine. They supply patients with medications prescribed by doctors and other qualified healthcare providers. They also inform patients about the potential side effects of medications.

Aspiring pharmacists are first required to finish four years of undergraduate studies, usually disciplines in the natural sciences. Then, they need to take the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) and apply to an accredited institution that offers a doctoral degree in pharmacy (PHARM D). Before finally practicing, pharmacists need to complete a formal internship program and pass two licensure exams.

7. Attorney

Median Annual Wage (2021): $127,990
Job Outlook (20212031): 10%

Attorneys are the legal representatives of their clients in court. Specializations in the legal field include banking and finance law, constitutional law, criminal law, family law, and tax law. To become an attorney, you must earn a four-year pre-law or undergraduate degree (typically, in the social sciences or humanities), complete law school (becoming a lawyer), and pass the bar exam in the state where you intend to practice.

In 2020, 37.4% of lawyers in the U.S. were women (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). Amal Clooney, a well-known barrister specializing in international law and human rights, exemplifies a woman with an established career in the field of law.

8. Human Resources (HR) Manager

Median Annual Wage (2021): $126,230
Job Outlook (20212031): 7%

The HR team of an organization is responsible for various administrative functions, such as recruitment, training and development, employer-employee relations, and the maintenance of a healthy company culture, among others. With these, HR managers play a vital role in leading their teams to cultivate a healthy work environment.

Those interested in becoming an HR professional must earn a bachelor’s degree in human resources or business administration with a concentration in human resource management. Candidates for the managerial position may be required to have several years of professional experience in the field.

9. Public Relations (PR) Manager

Median Annual Wage (2021): $125,780
Job Outlook (20212031): 8%

The Public Relations Society of America defines PR as a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics. PR managers, alongside their own teams, strategically protect the reputation of brands or companies and their connections with the media, customers, and prospects.

PR teams produce different content types, such as video, short-form content, and press releases, released via various channels, such as social media, television, radio, and newspapers. To become a PR manager, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or other related fields. Management positions typically require years of field experience, and some organizations find a master’s degree in business administration or management necessary for the job.

10. Optometrist

Median Annual Wage (2021): $124,300
Job Outlook (20212031): 10%

Optometrists provide primary healthcare for the eyes. They assess, diagnose, and treat the eyes of patients. They may also prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, monitor eye conditions related to diseases, and provide low-vision aids and vision therapy.

To become an optometrist, you must earn an undergraduate degree and then a doctor of optometry degree. Some may confuse the profession with ophthalmology, which provides medical and surgical eye care and requires a medical degree, a one-year internship, and a three-year residency.

11. Nurse Practitioner

Median Annual Wage (2021): $123,780
Job Outlook (20212031): 40%

Nurse practitioners are trained to provide different acute, primary, and specialty care services. They work on disease prevention and promote the overall health and well-being of individuals, providing patient care independently or with a doctor. In a nurse practitioner vs physician assistant comparison, both have similar scopes of service but the former concentrates on the nursing track of education while the latter is focused on the medical track.

Nurse practitioners may specialize as acute care nurse practitioners (ACNP), family nurse practitioners (FNP), or may train specifically in orthopedics, pediatrics, oncology, gerontology, and psychiatry, giving diagnoses and treatments to related diseases.

To become a nurse practitioner, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing, become a registered nurse (RN), finish a master’s or doctoral nursing program focused on becoming a nurse practitioner, and pass a national board certification exam. There is also the option of taking up an online nurse practitioner program for those looking for a more cost-efficient option than traditional degrees.

12. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Median Annual Wage (2021): $123,780
Job Outlook (20212031): 40%

A CRNA is a registered nurse who has specialized training in anesthesia. They can apply anesthesia for procedures and surgeries, working independently or with other healthcare professionals, such as surgeons, dentists, and podiatrists. They are also trained to supply the correct anesthesia dosage, evaluate an individual’s response to anesthesia, and spot potential risks to patients.

In terms of their median annual wage, CRNAs and nurse practitioners are also tied to this list of the best paying jobs for women. Notably, both professions have a 40% job outlook, which may be influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To become a CRNA, you must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or other related fields, become an RN and work as one for at least a year in an intensive care unit, complete an accredited nurse anesthesia doctoral program, and pass the National Certification Examination for Nurse Anesthetists.

13. Software Developer

Median Annual Wage (2021): $120,730
Job Outlook (20212031): 25%

Software developers design and build computer programs, such as applications for mobile or desktop and operating systems. Many of them work in teams in technology companies and manufacturing, which commonly require job candidates to have earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or other related degrees.

In 2020, 19.4% of software developers in the U.S. were women, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Elizabeth Churchill, Google’s Director of User Experience, is one example of a woman with an established career in software development.

14. Construction Manager

Median Annual Wage (2021): $98,890
Job Outlook (20212031): 8%

Construction managers plan, coordinate with other personnel, budget, and supervise construction projects to ensure that the work done is within budget and contract specifications. They work mostly onsite to consistently keep track of project progress.

Construction managers are usually required to have a bachelor’s degree and on-the-job training as large construction companies often prefer applicants with a degree and real-world experience. Undergraduate studies that are accepted for the job include construction science, construction management, architecture, and engineering. You may also assess if an online construction management degree works for you.

15. Occupational Therapist

Median Annual Wage (2021): $85,570
Job Outlook (20212031): 14%

An occupational therapist treats body pain, injuries, illness, or disabilities and educates patients on how they can adapt and perform daily activities through healthier movements. It frequently works with other healthcare providers, such as doctors, physical therapists, and psychologists. It is also regarded as one of the high paying careers for women.

To become an occupational therapist, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, such as biology, health science, and psychology. Afterward, you must earn either a master of occupational therapy or a doctor of occupational therapy degree. Lastly, you must pass the National Board of Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.

What does it take to land high paying jobs?

Educational attainment supports your potential to get offered the highest paying female jobs, which still depends on the field of study and work you prefer and are passionate about. Some top female jobs in USA may require master’s or doctoral degrees, such as optometry or nursing, but may pay you less than jobs where a bachelor’s degree and years of professional experience may already be enough based on median annual wage data.

In the long run, coupling your skills and experience with being persistent and purpose-driven may take you far up the ranks and pay you deservingly in your chosen profession.

What online courses can help women acquire valuable skills for high-paying jobs?

With the rise of online learning, women can now acquire valuable skills for high-paying jobs from the comfort of their own homes. One such skill is medical coding and billing, which is in high demand in the healthcare industry. Women can enroll in a low-cost medical coding and billing online program to gain the necessary skills and certifications to pursue a career in this field. Additionally, online courses in fields such as technology, business, and healthcare can provide women with the skills and knowledge needed to access high-paying jobs and advance in their careers.

What skills can help women access the highest-paying jobs?

Building certain skills can open doors to high-paying roles across various industries. While educational qualifications play a role, these skills are often essential for career advancement and securing top positions:

  • Leadership and Management: Strong leadership skills are highly valued in fields like business, tech, and healthcare. Women who can manage teams and projects effectively often stand out for executive roles.
  • Technical Proficiency: Skills in data analysis, software development, or cybersecurity are in demand across industries, leading to well-compensated tech jobs for women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
  • Negotiation Skills: Learning to negotiate salaries, promotions, and benefits can significantly increase earnings over time. Many high-paying roles require strong negotiation abilities.
  • Communication and Networking: Building connections in your field and excelling at clear, persuasive communication can help open doors to higher-paying positions.
  • Advanced Education: Specialized degrees can give a competitive edge. Some women choose the easiest masters degrees to quickly add credentials that boost earnings without lengthy time commitments.

How do work-life balance and flexibility impact high-paying jobs for women?

Achieving a healthy work-life balance is a crucial factor for many women when pursuing high-paying careers. While salary is often the primary consideration, the flexibility and balance that a job offers can significantly impact long-term job satisfaction and overall well-being. Here’s how work-life balance plays a role in some of the highest-paying careers for women:

  • Remote and Flexible Job Opportunities: Many top-paying industries now offer flexible work arrangements, including remote work or flexible hours. This flexibility allows women to manage family commitments, personal projects, or health needs while maintaining a fulfilling career. Fields such as technology, marketing, and pharmaceuticals offer numerous roles that support flexible work schedules, making them ideal for women who seek both career advancement and a balanced life.
  • Job Flexibility in Healthcare: While some roles in healthcare, such as physicians or surgeons, can require long hours, there are several high-paying opportunities within the field that allow for a more balanced lifestyle. For example, nurse practitioners or physical therapists often have more control over their schedules compared to traditional physicians, allowing for greater work-life harmony. As healthcare systems increasingly shift to patient-centered care models, more options are emerging that offer greater flexibility without sacrificing salary.
  • The Role of Leadership and Management: Leadership roles such as CEO or executive positions often come with significant responsibilities but also offer more flexibility compared to lower-level positions. As organizations recognize the value of diverse leadership teams, many now offer family leave policies, mental health support, and other perks designed to ensure that female executives can maintain a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.
  • Career Advancement with Work-Life Balance: Maintaining work-life balance doesn’t mean limiting career growth. In fact, many women who prioritize balance are better positioned for long-term success, as they avoid burnout and develop a more sustainable career trajectory. Choosing a job or company that supports work-life balance can lead to higher job satisfaction, better productivity, and, ultimately, greater career advancement.

While high-paying jobs often come with demanding responsibilities, more women are finding that choosing flexible and balanced work arrangements can be just as rewarding as the salary itself. By seeking out companies and industries that prioritize work-life balance and offering career flexibility, women can enjoy both financial success and personal fulfillment. Aspirants can pursue affordable online masters programs to earn an education without breaking the bank. 

Industries and Fields with Emerging Opportunities for Women

Multiple industries and professions are evolving to accommodate more women in their ranks while closing the gender pay gap. A deeper understanding of these emerging opportunities can help women identify fields ripe for growth, innovation, and inclusivity. Beyond traditionally female-dominated sectors like healthcare and education, industries such as technology, renewable energy, and financial services are leveraging their evolving needs to attract diverse talent.

The technology sector, for example, offers unparalleled opportunities for women in roles like cybersecurity analysts, product managers, and AI engineers. As the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow, organizations are increasingly investing in programs to attract women, including mentorship initiatives and diversity-focused recruitment.

Similarly, the renewable energy industry has seen heightened efforts to include women in roles related to engineering, project management, and policymaking. With global investments in sustainability surging, women can explore careers that not only offer financial rewards but also align with personal values around environmental responsibility.

In financial services, women are making strides as wealth managers, fintech innovators, and compliance officers. This sector offers notable benefits such as fast-paced career growth and competitive compensation, attracting professionals who thrive in dynamic, high-stakes environments.

Non-traditional fields such as gaming, aerospace, and robotics are also opening doors for women by addressing systemic barriers through targeted educational programs and inclusive hiring practices. These industries require problem-solvers with technical acumen, making them ideal for women with backgrounds in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

Women looking to carve out a career in these growth-oriented fields are encouraged to pursue specialized medical certifications and stay informed about sector-specific trends, particularly in healthcare and related industries. Networking with industry leaders and joining professional associations can also serve as critical steps for women aiming to position themselves in these transformative spaces.

How can career transitions and reskilling unlock new high-paying opportunities for women?

Women achieving a successful career transition often blend targeted reskilling with strategic planning to align their expertise with evolving market demands. By identifying niche areas within emerging sectors and participating in focused training programs—such as micro-certifications and specialized bootcamps—women can bridge competency gaps and accelerate entry into lucrative roles. Leveraging professional guidance to navigate these transitions also reinforces a tailored roadmap for advancing toward the highest paying jobs with master's degree. Continually updating skills through structured learning helps establish a competitive edge, ensuring that women remain adaptable and well-equipped to capitalize on new high-paying opportunities.

How can targeted mentorship and networking propel career growth for women?

Effective mentorship and networking are essential strategies for enhancing professional development and achieving leadership roles in high-paying fields. By connecting with seasoned professionals, women gain access to industry insights and build relationships that lead to new opportunities, advanced skill development, and increased visibility within their sectors. These relationships are catalysts for practical learning in areas such as negotiation, leadership, and strategic decision-making. Moreover, integrating continuous education—such as engaging in accredited online bachelor degree programs—provides a structured pathway to acquire new competencies that align with emerging industry demands, thereby reinforcing career advancement.

How can accelerated master's programs empower women's career growth?

Accelerated master's programs offer a strategic advantage by enabling women to acquire advanced skills and specialized expertise within a condensed timeframe. These programs are tailored to support work-life balance, allowing professionals to enhance their credentials without significant time away from their careers. By opting for a 1 year masters degree programs, women can swiftly transition into higher-level roles, increasing their eligibility for leadership positions and competitive salaries. The focused curriculum aligns with emerging industry trends, ensuring that graduates stay ahead of technological and market innovations while also expanding their professional networking opportunities.

How are policy reforms and diversity initiatives enhancing high-paying career opportunities for women?

Policy changes and corporate diversity strategies are instrumental in dismantling systemic barriers that have historically limited women’s advancement in lucrative sectors. Recent reforms have driven enhanced compensation transparency and established equal opportunity frameworks within organizations. These initiatives, including structured diversity audits and inclusive recruitment practices, expand access to leadership and critical roles. In parallel, women are leveraging expedited educational credentials—such as degrees you can get online that pay well—to bolster their competitive expertise in rapidly evolving industries.

How can salary negotiation and financial planning enhance women's career advancement?

To boost career progression and close existing wage gaps, women can benefit from mastering salary negotiation techniques and sound financial planning. Developing a solid negotiation strategy involves gathering market-specific salary data, aligning compensation expectations with industry benchmarks, and using quantifiable achievements to advocate for equitable pay. Additionally, women can leverage advanced online educational resources—such as reading our post about low cost online schools for working adults—to further refine negotiation skills and financial literacy. Integrating personalized financial planning into career development enables women to make informed decisions about investments, benefits, and long-term financial security while positioning themselves strongly in competitive fields.

How can short-term online programs and certifications enhance women's career advancement?

Women can gain specialized skills and industry-specific knowledge through non-traditional educational pathways that complement advanced degrees. Short-term programs and certifications offer a streamlined way to bridge skill gaps, address emerging trends, and meet immediate industry demands. Enrolling in the best 6-month online associate degree programs is one approach to quickly build relevant competencies while maintaining work-life balance. This alternative educational model provides a flexible, cost-effective strategy to bolster career progression and create a stepping stone towards higher-level positions.

Key Insights

  • Rising Participation: Women have significantly increased their participation in various high-paying professions, including healthcare, technology, business management, and law, despite setbacks such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Educational Attainment: Higher educational attainment correlates with higher earnings for women. Women with bachelor’s degrees or higher earn significantly more than those without high school diplomas or with only high school diplomas.
  • Narrowing Gender Pay Gap: Younger women (under 30) are experiencing a narrower gender wage gap, with some earning the same or more than their male counterparts in several metropolitan areas.
  • Diverse High-Paying Careers: Women can pursue a wide range of high-paying careers, including physicians, surgeons, CEOs, dentists, marketing managers, and software developers, among others.
  • Field-Specific Requirements: Many high-paying jobs require advanced degrees and specific training. For example, physicians and surgeons need medical degrees and extensive residency training, while software developers often require degrees in computer science.
  • Continued Challenges: Despite progress, women still face a gender pay gap in many sectors. For instance, female workers in the Department of Health and Human Services earned about 9.2% less than men in 2018, though the gap has been narrowing.
  • Growth and Opportunity: Careers in healthcare, technology, and business management are expected to grow, providing more opportunities for women in these fields.

FAQ

  1. What are some of the highest-paying jobs for women? Some of the highest-paying jobs for women include physicians, surgeons, chief executive officers (CEOs), dentists, marketing managers, pharmacists, attorneys, human resources managers, public relations managers, optometrists, nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), software developers, construction managers, and occupational therapists.
  2. What education is required to become a physician? To become a physician, one must complete an undergraduate degree in a science-related field, pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), complete medical school, finish residency training, acquire a state license, and undergo further medical education as needed.
  3. How has the gender pay gap changed over time for women in the workforce? The gender pay gap has been narrowing over time, particularly for younger women. In some sectors and metropolitan areas, women under 30 earn the same or more than their male counterparts. However, the pay gap persists, with women earning about 84% of what men earned in 2020.
  4. What are the educational requirements for becoming a chief executive officer (CEO)? CEOs typically have a bachelor’s degree in business-related fields such as business administration or management. Many CEOs also have extensive on-the-job experience, often spanning several years, which helps them develop the skills needed for executive roles.
  5. What factors contribute to the gender pay gap in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)? Factors contributing to the gender pay gap in DHHS include occupation, pay plan, location, and job grades. Despite controlling for these factors, a small unexplained portion of the pay gap remains, ranging from 1.0% to 3.5%.
  6. What are the job prospects for nurse practitioners and CRNAs? Nurse practitioners and CRNAs have excellent job prospects, with both roles expected to grow by 40% from 2021 to 2031. This growth is influenced by the increasing demand for healthcare services and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  7. What is required to become a software developer? To become a software developer, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Practical experience, often gained through internships or entry-level positions, is also crucial.
  8. How can women increase their earning potential in the workforce? Women can increase their earning potential by attaining higher levels of education, gaining relevant work experience, and pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in their chosen fields. Networking and professional development opportunities can also enhance career prospects.
  9. What is the job outlook for marketing managers? The job outlook for marketing managers is positive, with a projected growth rate of 10% from 2021 to 2031. This growth is driven by the increasing need for companies to promote their products and services in competitive markets.
  10. Are there high-paying jobs for women that do not require advanced degrees? Yes, there are high-paying jobs for women that do not necessarily require advanced degrees. For example, roles like software developers, marketing managers, and construction managers often require a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience rather than advanced degrees.

References:

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