Let’s make twenty list.
20. Physical Therapist
From helping a patient walk again to relieving a severe case of arthritis, the day of a physical therapist is far from boring. In fact, for the best part, it’s challenging. You don’t know what issues you’ll be faced with and how hard it will be to treat them, but at the end of the day, it’s extremely rewarding.
Average salary: $69,500 (£53,800)
In this digital age, it comes as no surprise that a software developer ranks amongst the 20 best-paying jobs in the world. These tech gurus know how to build captivating and engaging websites, e-shops and blogging tools. They also have the added benefit of gaining a high-pay contract or a number of freelance gigs for the ultimate work-life balance.
Average salary: $69,500 (£53,800)
18. Statistician
If you’re a data person and have a passion for numbers, becoming a statistician might just be your dream job. You’ll be tasked with analysing data and making predictions on trends for a number of clients. To succeed in this career, you’ll need a degree and a qualification from the Royal Statistical Society (RSS).
Average salary: $71,600 (£55,500)
17. Lawyer
If you’re more of an extrovert who seeks to find justice, then becoming a lawyer could be the ideal job for you. Your studies can vary depending on the industry you want to focus on, but what’s common across all lawyers is an extended work schedule and years of studies to achieve professional satisfaction.
Average salary: $81,900 (£63,400)
16. IT Manager
IT managers are responsible for protecting office networks from hackers and malware, supervising software and hardware upgrades and any other technical issues that may arise. They are high in demand as IT is an integral part of any business model.
Average salary: $85,000 (£65,800)
15. Pilot
In order to become a pilot, you not only have to go through vigorous training but also need to meet the physical requirements. British Airways, for example, requires all pilots to be between 1.57m and 1.90m in height and pass the EASA Class 1 medical, which includes tests on fitness, hearing and vision.
Average salary: $100,500 (£77,900)
14. Petroleum Engineer
As a petroleum engineer, you’ll be required to create new technology to extract oil and natural gas in a safe and environmentally-friendly way. You will need to have a good understanding of maths and science to succeed. If you live in the US, meanwhile, you can even get your studies paid for by the government if you do want to pursue this profession.
Average salary: $101,000 (£78,300)
13. General Practitioner
General practitioners are the first point of contact for any patient that’s suffering from anything from a simple cold to a life-threatening condition. They have a good understanding of the human body and anatomy, and either treat the patient or refer them to the correct specialist.
Average salary: $104,300 (£80,800)
12. Podiatrist
If, on the other hand, you’re intrigued by one of the body’s most important parts, you can become a podiatrist, or a foot doctor, where you’ll mainly deal with issues like bunions, ingrown toenails and fractures. To qualify, you’ll need to enrol in a podiatry school after you’ve completed your bachelor’s degree.
Average salary: $125,000 (£96,900)
11. Dentist
Dentists are in high demand across the world in both public and private healthcare. As a dentist, you’ll be responsible for any issues with the mouth from gums to teeth. You’ll need to have excellent communication skills to build a client base and to make people feel at ease in your scary chair.
Average salary: $125,600 (£97,300)
10. Nurse Anaesthesiologist
Nurse anaesthesiologists play a huge part in critical conditions. They are in charge of administering the right amount of anaesthetic through injections or inhaled gases. To specialise in anaesthesiology, you’ll need to train as an RN and then gain a master's degree from an accredited nurse-anaesthesia programme.
Average salary: $140,000 (£108,500)
9. Paediatrician
If you love babies and children and you want to work with them on a daily basis, you could consider becoming a paediatrician. You’ll be responsible for checking the physical, mental and social health of your patients, ensuring they’re well and comfortable at all times.
Average salary: $145,900 (£113,100)
1. CEO
Becoming a CEO requires years of hard work in order to gain the managerial experience and skills needed for your desired industry – just ask Elon Musk and Tim Cook, two of the highest paid CEOs in the world.
Average salary: $162,000 (£125,500)