You may be looking for a new career path or a higher paying job as you enter your 50s. With age comes wisdom and experience that many employers value, even if some old stereotypes about older workers persist. Don’t let your age hold you back.
There are well-paying jobs out there for experienced professionals over 50 if you know where to look.
This article will highlight the highest paying jobs for people over 50 projected to be in demand in 2025. With the right skills, credentials, and mindset, you can find meaningful and lucrative work opportunities regardless of your age. Keep reading to learn more about securing a high salary job over 50.
Top Highest Paying Jobs for People Over 50
As you approach your 50s, you may find yourself re-evaluating your career goals and priorities. Perhaps you’re seeking a more fulfilling role, better work-life balance, or simply higher earning potential. Fortunately, there are numerous lucrative opportunities available for experienced professionals over 50.
1. Management Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $87,000+
Management consulting is a field that values experience, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities – all traits that often come with age. As a management consultant, you’ll work with organizations across various industries, providing expert advice and recommendations to enhance their operations, strategies, and overall performance.
2. Financial Manager
Average Annual Salary: $134,000+
With your financial acumen and leadership skills, a career as a financial manager could be an excellent fit. In this role, you’ll oversee an organization’s financial health, develop strategies to maximize profitability, and ensure compliance with regulations.
3. Information Technology (IT) Manager
Average Annual Salary: $151,000+
As technology continues to evolve, the demand for skilled IT managers remains high. With your extensive experience and ability to lead teams, you can thrive in this dynamic field, overseeing the implementation and maintenance of an organization’s technology infrastructure.
4. Entrepreneur/Small Business Owner
Potential Earnings: Unlimited
If you’ve ever dreamed of being your own boss, your 50s could be the perfect time to pursue entrepreneurship. Leverage your industry knowledge, contacts, and financial resources to start a business in a field you’re passionate about. While the risks are higher, the potential rewards – both financial and personal – can be immense.
5. Real Estate Agent
Average Annual Salary: $50,000+ (top agents earn much more)
The real estate industry offers ample opportunities for those with strong interpersonal skills and a knack for sales. As a real estate agent, you’ll assist clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, earning commissions on successful transactions.
6. Personal Financial Advisor
Average Annual Salary: $94,000+
If you have a background in finance or investments, becoming a personal financial advisor could be a lucrative choice. In this role, you’ll provide personalized guidance to individuals and families, helping them manage their assets, plan for retirement, and achieve their financial goals.
7. Technical Writer
Average Annual Salary: $74,000+
As businesses increasingly rely on complex technologies, the demand for skilled technical writers continues to rise. With your subject matter expertise and strong communication skills, you can excel in this field, translating complex information into clear, concise documentation.
8. Corporate Trainer
Average Annual Salary: $62,000+
If you have a passion for teaching and a wealth of industry knowledge, a career as a corporate trainer could be a fulfilling and financially rewarding choice. You’ll design and deliver training programs to help organizations develop their workforce’s skills and capabilities.
9. Project Manager
Average Annual Salary: $77,000+
Project management is a versatile field that spans various industries, from construction to IT. With your leadership abilities and experience in managing complex initiatives, you can oversee projects from start to finish, ensuring they’re completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
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FAQs
What are the highest paying jobs for people over 50?
Some of the highest paying jobs for those over 50 include management roles, healthcare professions, technical jobs like software engineering, and skilled trades. Top options tend to require significant experience, advanced degrees or specialized training.
Why look for high-paying work at 50+?
Many people over 50 are at their peak earning potential with decades of expertise. Others may be changing careers, need to catch up on retirement savings, or simply want engaging, lucrative work. High salaries allow investing more for retirement.
What industries are booming for older workers?
Healthcare is a rapidly growing field desperate for skilled professionals like nurses, physicians, and administrators as the population ages. Tech also offers many remote roles suited to experienced hires. Trades like plumbing or HVAC have labor shortages.
How can older candidates stand out to employers?
Highlight valuable soft skills like leadership, communication and problem-solving honed over decades. Play up achievements, technical skills kept current, and passion for continuous learning. An updated resume highlighting transferable skills is key.
Do higher degrees pay off for older workers?
Absolutely – further education in fields like business, healthcare and tech can significantly boost earning potential at any age. Online and evening programs make it feasible for working adults to upskill efficiently.
What about age discrimination in hiring?
Unfortunately, ageism persists, but cannot be openly admitted. Emphasize your energy, modern skills and cultural fit as an “ageless” worker during interviews. Research shows older hires are loyal and productive.
How important is networking for career switchers?
Extremely – tap your personal and professional networks early. Informational interviews provide insights, while warm referrals increase your odds. Update your LinkedIn, join trade groups, and attend local events.
What traits help older workers thrive?
Curiosity, resilience, strong time management and tech savvy are key. Embrace learning new tools and skills. Manage stress through self-care. Stay current by reading industry publications.
How can parents balance careers with family?
Many high-pay roles offer remote options, flex hours or job-sharing that reduce travel and increase work-life balance. Explore family leave policies and employer-sponsored childcare benefits.
Is starting a business an alternative path?
Entrepreneurship can be lucrative for experienced professionals with a strong network, funds and business plan. Consultancy allows setting your own terms. Research financing, regulations and target your expertise.