The subject of high-paying careers for skilled women comes up a lot, for obvious reasons. It’s true that the pay gap between men and women still exists in 2022. However, great strides made over the years did close the pay gap by roughly $0.25 on the dollar between 1973 and 2020. In today’s world, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), women who work full-time earn $0.82 to every dollar earned by men who work full-time.
As we continue to make progress as a society, there are many career options for women where the pay gap is closing even more, and women can earn nearly as much or more than their male counterparts. Positions in law, internet technology, health care, and management offer high-paying salaries for women.
Curious as to what some of the best money-making options are as a working woman? Read on to find out what careers are the most lucrative for women based on information by the BLS.
The 13 best high-paying careers for women
Here are 13 high-paying jobs for women based on 2020 and 2021 statistics from the BLS.
1. Physician
Physicians can specialize in more than 100 subspecialties and specialties, including internal medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN, surgery, and family medicine. They examine and diagnose patients, prescribe medicines, order labs and tests, and treat injuries.
The annual median pay for female physicians was $118,716 in 2021.
2. Pharmacist
Pharmacists manage and fill prescriptions for prescribing doctors, veterinarians, and patients. They also consult with patients on properly taking medication and its side effects. Pharmacists must be licensed to work in their state. Most pharmacists work at drug, retail, and grocery store pharmacies, as well as in hospitals and clinics.
The annual median pay for female pharmacists was $108,524 in 2021.
3. Attorney
Attorneys counsel businesses, individuals, schools, and government agencies on legal issues and concerns. They can work for local governments, corporations, school systems, nonprofits, and at a private law firm. It requires an undergraduate degree, a four-year law degree, and passing the state bar exam to practice.
The annual median pay for female lawyers was $99,224 in 2021.
4. Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and information systems managers analyze, coordinate, implement, and manage computer-related projects. Also referred to as information technology managers, they can work for a technology services firm, corporation, government entity, schools, and more. Responsibilities often include working with management to develop IT strategies and implement them.
The annual median pay for computer and information systems managers was $99,216 in 2021.
5. Chief Executives
Chief executives lead organizations to ensure financial and operational goals are met. They coordinate and plan a company’s operations in conjunction with the rest of the executive team and can work for private or public companies. Their high pay also comes along with long hours and the stress of knowing that the company’s success largely lies with them.
The annual median pay for women chief executives was $99,008 in 2021.
6. Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners can provide specialty and primary healthcare and support physicians, physician assistants, and other nurses to coordinate patient care. Nurse practitioners, also referred to as advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), must have a master’s degree and a state license.
The annual median pay for female nurse practitioners was $98,956 in 2021.
7. Physician Assistant
Physician assistants do many of the same things that a physician does, including diagnosing and treating patients. They typically refer complex cases to physicians, surgeons, and other specialists.
The annual median pay for female physician assistants was $96,460 in 2021.
8. Software Developer
Software developers create computer programs based on user needs and requirements. They often write code to develop and improve existing applications and software.
The annual median pay for female software developers was $95,680 in 2021.
9. Public Relations (PR) and Fundraising Managers
Public relations and fundraising managers are responsible for an organization’s external outreach and media relations. They can work for a PR firm, marketing firm, business, government agency, or nonprofit agency, to name some of the options afforded to them. PR managers are often in the public eye and must be comfortable speaking and communicating with and in front of others, including large crowds.
The annual median pay for public relations and fundraising managers was $86,268 in 2021.
10. Human Resources (HR) Manager
Human resources managers oversee employee relations, staffing and development, employment policies, and ensure employment laws are adhered to for compliance. They might also manage compensation, benefits, labor relations, and training for an organization. HR managers often work closely with senior leadership and executives for workforce strategy development.
The annual median pay for female HR managers was $80,340 in 2021.
11. Fundraisers
Fundraisers are responsible for raising funds for charities, nonprofit organizations, business events, and more. They often handle aspects of public relations to support fundraising efforts.
The annual median pay for female fundraisers was $80,080 in 2021.
12. Marketing Manager
Marketing managers oversee creative campaigns for clients and the businesses for which they work. They’re responsible for brand development, awareness, and reach and supervise various aspects of marketing, including social media, public relations, communications, advertising, and video development.
The annual median pay for female marketing managers was $77,480 in 2021.
13. Engineer
Engineers can specialize in mechanical, electrical, computer, industrial, civil, oil & gas, chemical, and other expert areas. They typically design, repair, and modify structures and systems for an organization. Engineers can work in various industries, with architecture, engineering, oil and gas, and public works being some of the most common sectors in which they find work. Median pay can vary based on the industry and specialization but often exceed six figures.
The annual median pay for females in engineering occupations was $71,864 in 2020.
High-paying careers for women for the long term
As the gender pay gap continues to close, more jobs will continue to offer equal pay for both men and women. The options provided here are solid considerations for women who want to be in high-paying careers for the long term.
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