United States Of America: Exploring Low-Stress Careers

Some jobs are less stressful than others, and not everyone can handle the pressure that comes with certain positions. High-stress jobs can impact mental health and disrupt work-life balance. If you’re wondering which jobs are considered low-stress careers, the U.S. News’ 100 Best Jobs ranking offers insight. Here is a look at some of them. The data for this ranking was provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Actuary

Actuaries are professionals who analyse the financial costs of risk and uncertainty. They use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess the likelihood of events and help businesses and clients develop policies that minimise the cost of that risk. They mostly work regular hours, that means good work life balance. According to the report they earn a median salary of $113,990 and the expected job growth by 2032 is 23.2%.

Audiologist

An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in identifying, diagnosing, and treating hearing and balance disorders. “The combination of a structured work environment, the opportunity to make a positive impact on their patients’ lives and the satisfaction of helping others make audiology a relatively low-stress profession,” Natalie Rosado, a licensed mental health counselor and expert on the Sanity & Self self-care app, said in an email to U.S. News & World Report. With the median salary of $82,680, the expected job growth by 2032 is 10.6%.

Data Scientist

A data scientist is a professional who uses scientific methods, algorithms, and systems to extract insights and knowledge from structured and unstructured data. They are high in demand and hence are well compensated. Many data science roles offer flexible working conditions, including remote work options and flexible hours. This flexibility can contribute to a better work-life balance, reducing stress. With a median salary of $103,500, the expected job growth by 2032, is 35.2%.

Graphic Designers

Graphic designers create visual content for various media, including advertisements, websites, and print materials. They use design software to develop layouts, logos, and graphics. Their job can be less stressful due to creative freedom, flexible work environments, and the ability to freelance. However, stress levels can vary based on deadlines, client demands, and project complexity. They have a median salary of $57,990 and their expected job growth by 2032 is 3.3%.

Optometrist

Optometrists diagnose and treat vision problems, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, and detect eye conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. They typically do not deal with life-threatening emergencies, which can contribute to lower stress levels. Their work primarily focuses on routine eye care and vision correction, allowing for a more predictable and controlled work environment compared to other healthcare professions that handle critical or emergency situations. They have a median salary of $125,590 and expected job growth by 2032 is 8.8%.