Trade Jobs vs. College Degree Jobs: Income Comparison?

I'm a high school junior trying to weigh my options between pursuing a trade or going to college. Can anyone provide insights into the average income of jobs in trades compared to those requiring a college degree?

Income comparisons between trade jobs and jobs requiring a college degree can indeed show distinctions that could help you in making your choice. Keep in mind though, money is not everything. I encourage you to consider what interests you and what you would enjoy doing long-term as well.

On average, bachelor's degree holders tend to have higher annual earnings than those with technical or trade qualifications. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for all workers in 2023 was $48,060, while the median annual wage for jobs typically requiring a bachelor's degree was $80,132.

However, what you earn also greatly depends on the field of work you are in. Trade jobs such as electricians, plumbers, or HVAC technicians have median annual wages in the mid-$50,000 range, according to the BLS. Some skilled tradespeople, like elevator installers or nuclear technicians, can make similar wages to degree holders, or even more, depending on the location, complexity of the job, and level of experience.

One significant advantage of trade jobs is that you usually start earning money sooner because you spend less time in school. It can also generally be less expensive to get a trade certification compared to a four-year bachelor's degree. However, on the flip side, those with a college degree often have a wider range of career options available to them, and degree holders often have more opportunities for career advancement.

In the end, both paths have their pros and cons, and it's essential to consider not only potential income but also job satisfaction, potential for advancement, job stability, and work-life balance when making your decision.