High-Paying Careers Without the Burnout: 6 Jobs That Prove $100K+ Doesn't Mean Stress

We’ve all heard the myth that jobs that pay over 100k a year automatically come with sleepless nights and constant pressure. But here’s the thing—according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median full-time worker earns around $60,580 annually. The good news? There’s a whole category of lucrative careers where you can clear six figures while actually maintaining work-life balance.

Resume Genius recently compiled research on high-paying positions that don’t demand you sacrifice your mental health. After reviewing BLS data, here are six jobs that genuinely offer both money and peace of mind.

Water Resource Specialist: The Quiet Guardian of Clean Water

Annual Salary: $157,740 (this is actually the highest on our list) Job Growth (2023-2033): 8% What You Need: Bachelor’s degree

With over 100,100 positions existing in 2023, this role keeps you focused on a single mission: ensuring water supplies stay clean and safe. The appeal here is clarity—your responsibilities are well-defined, the work environment is predictable, and you’re well-compensated for making a real difference. No corporate politics, just straightforward work.

Astronomer: Research in a Controlled Setting

Annual Salary: $127,930 Job Growth (2023-2033): 7% What You Need: Doctoral or professional degree

BLS data showed 23,500 astronomers working in 2023. The beauty of this career is that it’s naturally low-pressure—you’re conducting long-term research in academic environments, often with remote flexibility. While the educational pathway requires patience, once you’re in, you’re studying the universe at your own pace. Limited deadlines, maximum intellectual fulfillment.

Actuary: Number-Crunching Without the Burnout

Annual Salary: $120,000 Job Growth (2023-2033): 22% (notably the strongest growth rate) What You Need: Bachelor’s degree

The actuarial field had 30,200 positions in 2023 and is expanding fast. These professionals analyze financial risks and investment strategies in office environments where you can think deeply before making decisions. The key advantage? Actuaries work with long-term projections and risk management rather than high-pressure daily deadlines. You have time to get things right.

Environmental Economist: Green Work, Good Pay

Annual Salary: $115,730 Job Growth (2023-2033): 5% What You Need: Master’s degree (though bachelor’s works for entry-level government roles)

Around 17,500 environmental economists were working in 2023. This role focuses on evaluating how environmental policies impact the economy. With global demand for green solutions accelerating, governments are investing in these positions. The work is inherently low-stress because it emphasizes long-term planning and addressing systemic issues like climate change rather than quarterly targets.

Mathematician: Structured Problem-Solving

Annual Salary: $104,860 Job Growth (2023-2033): 11% What You Need: Master’s degree

BLS data counted 34,800 mathematicians and statisticians in 2023, with consistent growth projected. These professionals typically work in research labs or universities—environments designed for deep thinking, not constant firefighting. The top employers are federal agencies and research institutions, both known for reasonable pace and intellectual respect. You’re solving complex problems, not managing crisis after crisis.

Computer Systems Analyst: Flexibility Meets Demand

Annual Salary: $103,800 Job Growth (2023-2033): 11% What You Need: Bachelor’s degree

This was the most abundant position in 2023 with 527,200 jobs available. Computer systems analysts review technology infrastructure and improve efficiency. Here’s what makes it genuinely low-stress: most roles offer work-from-home flexibility, and employers give you time to analyze before implementing changes. Your skills are in such high demand that employers actually protect your wellbeing to keep you happy.

The Real Pattern Here

All six jobs that pay over 100k a year share something in common: they prioritize deep work over crisis management. Whether you’re analyzing data, conducting research, or solving technical problems, these careers let you focus rather than constantly react. The educational investment is real, but so is the payoff—both financially and mentally.