10 Low-Stress Jobs That Pay Well in 2026

Finding a job that pays well without causing too much stress is possible. Low-stress jobs often have a good balance between work and personal life.

They usually don't have common stress factors like dangerous working conditions, tight deadlines, very long hours, or bosses watching your every move.

Here are 10 jobs that offer good pay with less stress.
 

1. Data Scientist

Average Yearly Pay: $112,590

Job Growth (2022-2032): 34%

What You Need: A degree in math, statistics, computer science, or a related field. Some employers want a master's degree or higher.

What You Do: Data scientists collect and study information to find patterns and solve problems. They use computer programs and special tools to gather and understand data.

Why It's Low-Stress: Most data scientists work in offices or from home. They often work alone and can have flexible schedules.
 

2. Orthodontist

Average Yearly Pay: $239,200

Job Growth (2024-2034): 4%

What You Need: A dental degree with a specialty in orthodontics, plus a license. This takes about 10 to 14 years of schooling.

What You Do: Orthodontists fix teeth problems like crooked or crowded teeth. They fit braces and other devices to straighten teeth.

Why It's Low-Stress: Unlike emergency room doctors, orthodontists don't deal with life-threatening situations. They also control their own work hours since they run their own practices or clinics.
 

3. Materials Scientist

Average Yearly Pay: $104,160

Job Growth (2024-2034): 5%

What You Need: A bachelor's degree in chemistry or a similar field. Many jobs require a master's degree or PhD.

What You Do: Materials scientists study chemicals and substances. They test products for safety and look for ways to create new materials.

Why It's Low-Stress: Most work happens in labs or offices. The job doesn't have strict deadlines, and you often work on your own.
 

4. Curator

Average Yearly Pay: $61,770

Job Growth (2024-2034): 6%

What You Need: A master's degree in art, history, or museum studies. Experience in business and marketing helps.

What You Do: Curators manage museums and art collections. They organize displays, bring in new artwork, and handle sales.

Why It's Low-Stress: Museums and galleries are quiet, calm places. Much of the work involves organizing items or restoring artwork on your own.
 

5. Web Developer

Average Yearly Pay: $95,380

Job Growth (2024-2034): 7%

What You Need: At minimum, a high school diploma with relevant experience. Many employers prefer a degree.

What You Do: Web developers write computer code to build websites and mobile apps. They can focus on how a website looks, how it works behind the scenes, or both.

Why It's Low-Stress: Web developers mostly work alone at a computer. Many can work from home. You also don't need years of expensive schooling to get started.
 

6. Audiologist

Average Yearly Pay: $92,120

Job Growth (2024-2034): 9%

What You Need: A Doctor of Audiology degree (AuD) and a license to practice.

What You Do: Audiologists help people with hearing and balance problems. They test hearing, diagnose issues, and recommend treatments.

Why It's Low-Stress: Audiologists don't treat life-threatening conditions. They use modern equipment to diagnose problems, which makes the job easier. Work hours are usually normal.
 

7. Chemical Engineer

Average Yearly Pay: $121,860

Job Growth (2024-2034): 3%

What You Need: A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a similar field. Hands-on experience is helpful.

What You Do: Chemical engineers create products like food, fuel, and medicine using chemistry. They also design equipment for factories.

Why It's Low-Stress: Most work happens in labs and offices. The job is research-based, so you often work alone and can manage your own pace.
 

8. Mathematician

Average Yearly Pay: $104,350

Job Growth (2024-2034): 8%

What You Need: At least a master's degree in mathematics or statistics.

What You Do: Mathematicians use math to solve problems in many fields, including business, engineering, and security. They study data and share their findings.

Why It's Low-Stress: Mathematicians mostly work alone in offices. They set their own pace to solve problems, with little pressure from others.
 

9. Astronomer

Average Yearly Pay: $132,170

Job Growth (2024-2034): 4%

What You Need: A PhD for university jobs. A bachelor's degree in physics may work for some positions.

What You Do: Astronomers study space, including planets, stars, and galaxies. They conduct research, run experiments, and develop new tools.

Why It's Low-Stress: The work involves observing and studying at your own speed. There are no high-risk situations, and the environment is calm.
 

10. Technical Writer

Average Yearly Pay: $91,670

Job Growth (2024-2034): 1%

What You Need: A bachelor's degree in English, journalism, or a technical subject. Knowledge of the topic you write about is important.

What You Do: Technical writers create guides, manuals, and articles that explain complicated information in simple terms.

Why It's Low-Stress: The job offers flexibility and work-from-home options. You work on projects at your own pace.

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