10 In-Demand Healthcare Jobs With High Salaries and Job Security

The healthcare industry consists of many rewarding career opportunities. As a whole, jobs in the healthcare industry are set to grow approximately 13% from 2021 to 2031, which is a much faster rate than average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here are the top 10 in-demand healthcare jobs based on current trends and projections:

10. Dentist: 

Dentists are healthcare professionals specializing in oral health and treating and preventing oral diseases. They play a critical role in maintaining the health and well-being of the teeth, gums, and mouth. As predicted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental jobs are projected to grow by approximately 6% by 2031. Dentists had an average annual salary of $163,220 in 2021. 

9. Respiratory Therapist: 

RTs evaluate and treat patients with breathing disorders, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sleep apnea. They provide breathing treatments, manage ventilators, and educate patients on respiratory care. Their job growth is projected to increase by 14% by 2031, and they earn $61,830 a year on average.

8. Occupational Therapist (OT): 

OTs assist patients with physical, mental, or developmental conditions in improving their daily living and work skills through therapeutic activities and adaptations. These jobs had a median salary of $85,570 per year in 2021 and are expected to grow 14% by 2031.

7. Medical Assistant: 

Medical assistants are allied healthcare professionals who work in various healthcare settings, such as clinics, hospitals, physician offices, and outpatient facilities. They perform administrative and clinical tasks to support healthcare providers and ensure the smooth operation of healthcare facilities. With an annual salary of $37,190, these jobs will grow by 16% by 2031. 

6. Medical Scientist/Technologist/Technician: 

These professionals perform laboratory tests, analyze specimens, and ensure accurate results to aid in disease diagnosis, treatment, and research. From 2021 to 2031, medical scientist jobs will grow by approximately 17%. The average salary for a medical scientist is $95,310 per year. 

5. Physical Therapist (PT): 

PTs help patients recover from injuries and illnesses by improving mobility, reducing pain, and increasing functionality through physical exercises and therapies. PTs also have a projected ten-year growth of 17% and earn $100,370 per year on average.

4. Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP): 

SLPs are healthcare professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat individuals who have difficulties with speech, language, voice, fluency, and cognitive communication. SLPs had an annual salary of $79,060 in 2021, and SLP jobs are predicted to grow by 21% by 2031.

3. Mental Health Counselor: 

Mental health counselors provide support, guidance, and therapy to individuals experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties. They are crucial in promoting mental well-being, addressing mental health disorders, and helping clients develop coping strategies. These jobs will grow by approximately 22% by 2031. Genetic counselors had a median salary of $48,520 in 2021.

2. Physician Assistant (PA): 

PAs work under the supervision of physicians and provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. They conduct physical exams, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and assist in surgeries. From 2021 to 2031, PA jobs will increase by 28%. On average, PAs earn $121,530 per year. 

1. Nurse Practitioner (NP): 

NPs are advanced practice registered nurses who diagnose and treat acute and chronic illnesses. They can prescribe medications, order and interpret tests, and provide primary and specialized care. NP jobs are predicted to grow approximately 40% by 2031, with a median annual pay of $123,780. 

These are just a few examples of in-demand healthcare jobs that are projected to grow faster than average. It's important to note that the demand for specific positions may vary depending on factors such as geographical location, population demographics, and advancements in medical technology.