Top high paying jobs for high school grads?

I'm currently in high school and considering skipping college to go straight into the workforce. Are there high paying jobs available with just my high school degree or diploma? I'm open to different fields and any advice is welcomed!

Absolutely, there are high-paying jobs for high school graduates that can help you start building a solid income early on in life. Here are a few options you might want to consider:

1. Trades: The skilled trades can be a great option. You may consider becoming an electrician, a plumber, or a carpenter. The middle income for electricians, for instance, is over $50,000 and it's possible to make quite a bit more with experience. Trades generally require a high school diploma and vocational training or apprenticeship.

2. Commercial Driver: Truck driving can offer a fairly high income, particularly for long-haul drivers. Depending on your location and the company you drive for, you could expect to earn between $50,000-60,000 annually, with experienced drivers making even more. Obtaining a commercial driving license is usually necessary.

3. Postal Service Workers: The U.S. Postal Service tends to pay fairly well, with median earnings of over $50,000 per year. Jobs can range from mail carriers to postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators.

4. Real Estate brokers and sales agents: Real estate can be lucrative, especially in hot markets. However, it often requires longer hours and work on weekends. The average income for a real estate agent is about $50,000, and the top 10% can earn over $100,000. Real estate agents must be licensed in their state, which requires passing a test.

Remember, these jobs may require some additional training or certification, but typically not a traditional 4-year degree. Also, while these careers can offer relatively high pay, they may also come with trade-offs such as physically demanding work, irregular hours, or heavy responsibility.

I'd also recommend looking at apprenticeships. You learn a skill or trade and earn money while doing it, and apprenticeships are available in many fields, from construction to technology. After your apprenticeship, you have a marketable skill that can lead to a high-paying job.

Moreover, entrepreneurship always opens a lane for prosperous income, so if you have a passion or idea, trying to make it into a business could also be considered. I hope this information gives you a starting point for exploring your post-high school options! Good luck with your decision!