What Are Some High-Paying Jobs I Can Get with Just a High School Diploma?

I’m curious about what high-paying jobs are out there for someone with just a high school diploma. I’m not sure if I want to go to college, so I want to explore my options. Any recommendations on where to start?

Sure, you've got a variety of options. It's important to note that "high-paying" can be relative depending on factors like location, level of experience, and more.

Here are some jobs that typically only require a high school diploma and can often pay quite well, especially after a few years of experience or additional on-the-job training:

1. Transportation and Distribution Managers: These professionals plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations.

2. Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay Electrical and Electronics Repairers: They inspect, test, maintain, or repair electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.

3. Elevator Installers and Repairers: They install, fix, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts.

4. Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers: While this position will require additional academy training, it generally only requires a high school diploma as a base educational requirement.

5. Nuclear Power Reactor Operators: They operate or control nuclear reactors either directly or from a remote location. Although this job typically requires years of in-house training and experience, the base educational requirement is generally only a high school diploma.

6. Commercial Pilot: While this job does require rigorous training and obtaining a pilot's license, the essential educational requirement is generally a high school diploma.

7. Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters: They coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within a railroad yard, on a passenger train, or on a freight train.

Remember, despite these jobs only requiring a high school diploma, all of them will demand further training, whether on the job, through a vocational program, or by acquiring a specific license. Also, keep in mind these are only a few examples, and there are more opportunities out there. Different industries value experience over degrees, so also consider professions where you can work your way up to higher-paying positions.