60 Realistic Jobs That Pay $5,000 a Month

Looking for a high paying job? These are the best jobs that pay $5,000 a month or more. Start earning more with a new career.

Looking for a high-paying job?

We’ve got just the thing. Jobs that pay $5,000 a month are out there, and we can help you find them. All you need is the right information and some guidance from the pros.

Imagine having a job that pays you $5000 per month – no matter what else is going on in your life. It’s possible, and we can show you how to get there. Thousands of people have already found their dream jobs with our help, so why not join them?

To make $5,000 a month working a full-time, 40-hour-per-week job, you'd need an hourly wage of $31.25.

All of the jobs listed below pay $30 per hour or more so you can make $5,000 a month with any of the 60 jobs listed below.

Keep reading and learn more about how to get started on your career today!

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What Is $5,000 A Month For A Yearly Salary?

In the US, $5,000 a month is $60,000 a year or around $30 an hour. Based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average wage worker in the United States earns about $18 to $48 per hour. That means you’re making more than $30 an hour if you’re working a full-time job. 

You don't have to be a CEO or a doctor to make good money. In fact, most of the listed jobs don't require a college degree to earn a livable wage. That sounds like pretty good news, right?

If you’re looking to earn a little more money or to just start your career and want to maximize your earnings’ potential, here are various jobs that pay $30 an hour or more in order to make $5,000 per month.

Remember: The goal is to find a position that offers good pay and career growth potential.

Jobs that Pay $5,000 a Month Without Requiring a Degree

While getting a job that pays well without a degree requirement might be challenging, getting one is still possible. There are plenty of jobs that pay $20 an hour or $30 an hour:

1. Sales Director

sales director

Median wage: $30.29 hourly

About the job: It entails boosting the company sales.

How to get started: To be a sales director, you must have a good sense of business and excellent negotiation and communication skills.

Why we like it

  • The job offers great benefit packages

Possible downside

  • The job might have demanding expectations

2. Security Administrators

Median wage: $30.21 hourly

About the job: The job is about installing, administering, and troubleshooting an organization's security solutions.

How to get started: To become one, you need good interpersonal and communication skills. You must also have a strong understanding of computers and security systems.

Why we like it

  • Workers earn more paid-off time

Possible downsides

  • It may involve long working hours

3. Elevator Installer

Median wage: $31.09 hourly

About the job: The job is about assembling, installing, and replacing elevators.

How to get started: Elevator installers should be detail-oriented and have good physical stamina.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered discounts, rewards, and bonuses

Possible downsides

  • The work is full of hazards

4. Real Estate Agent

Median wage: $31.78 hourly

About the job: Helping clients buy, rent, or sell properties.

How to get started: To become a real estate agent, you must have strong sales, negotiation, and communication skills. In addition, you must be able to work independently.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered career development training

Possible downsides:

  • You might end up working long hours

Related: A Beginners Guide: How to Get Started Real Estate Investing

5. Subway and Streetcar Operators

Median wage: $31.29 hourly

About the job: The job involves reporting delays, mechanical problems, and emergencies to supervisors using radios.

How to get started: The hiring manager requires you to be able to listen actively, speak effectively, and think critically.

Why we like it

  • There are employee appreciation programs

Possible downsides

  • The job can be tiring

6. Gas Station Operators

Median wage: $30.47 hourly

About the job: The job involves filling vehicles with fuel and lubricants and checking tire pressure.

How to get started: To be a gas station operator, you must have good numeracy skills and communication abilities

Why we like it

  • Employees are offered flexible schedules

Possible downsides

  • Workers are exposed to chemical risk factors

7. Electrical Power-line Installers and Repairers

Median wage: $31.20 hourly

About the job: It entails installing and maintaining electrical systems.

How to get started: Most employers require applicants to have a high school diploma, good problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

Why we like it

  • There is a high chance of career growth

Possible downsides

  • Long working hours

8. Police and Detectives

Median wage: $30.02 hourly

About the job: It involves investigating crimes and collecting evidence.

How to get started: To qualify, you must have a high school diploma, cultural diversity training, and strong analytical and communication skills.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered benefits and perks

Possible downsides

  • Long working hours

9. Patternmakers

Median wage: $31.49 hourly

About the job: The job is about producing patterns on papers or fabrics for use in the apparel industry.

How to get started: To be a patternmaker, you should have a high school diploma, excellent fine motor skills, and the ability to interpret blueprints and design models.

Why we like it

  •    The job offers onsite relaxation services

Possible downsides

  • The job growth is declining

10. Boilermakers

Median wage: $32.01 hourly

About the job: It involves installing and maintaining boiler systems.

How to get started: To qualify, you must demonstrate good reading comprehension, stamina, and welding skills.

Why we like it

  • The job offers onsite relaxation services and free training

Possible downsides

  • The job can be physically demanding

11. Chemical Plant and System Operators

Median wage: $31.34 hourly

About the job: The job entails monitoring equipment, regulating valves and gauges, and interpreting chemical reactions.

How to get started: A chemical plant operator needs at least a high school diploma and impressive communications and analytical skills.

Why we like it

  •   Employees are offered discounts and rewards

Possible downsides

  • The job satisfaction may be low

12. Farm Labor Contractor

Median wage: $31.56 hourly

About the job: Entails recruiting and hiring agricultural workers and overseeing contracted employees.

How to get started: To be a farm labor contractor, you must pass a state license test. You also need excellent communication skills.

Why we like it

  • Wellness programs are offered to workers

Possible downsides

  • You may be required to work for long hours

13. Model Makers

 Median wage: $30.40 hourly

About the job: It involves creating 3D models for various situations such as prototypes and film sets.

How to get started: To be a model maker, you’ll need thorough training and be able to pay attention to details.

Why we like it

  • You’ll get office perks and flexible schedule

Possible downsides

  • You may be required to work in uncomfortable conditions

14. Roof Bolters

Median wage: $31.60 hourly

About the job: Involves drilling holes into roofs and installing support bolts in an underground mine.

How to get started: To be a roof bolter, you need extensive training and at least a high school diploma.

Why we like it

  •  Workers are offered paid time off

Possible downsides

  • The job is physically demanding

15. Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers

Median wage: $30.40 hourly

About the job: The job entails installing and repairing communications equipment in commercial and residential buildings under construction.

How to get started: To pursue this career, you need a postsecondary certificate and not less than a year of on-the-job training.

Why we like it

  •   Appreciation programs are offered to workers

Possible downsides

  • There is a high risk of injury

16. Water Transport Workers

Median wage: $30.07 hourly

About the job: It involves operating and maintaining vessels that carry cargo and people over the water.

How to get started: To qualify for this job, you must have impressive hand-eye coordination, physical strength, good interpersonal skill, and extensive training.

Why we like it

  • There is in-house professional growth

Possible downsides

  • The job may be physically demanding

17. Electricians

Median wage: $31.45 hourly

About the job: The job involves installing and repairing electrical systems, wiring, and lighting fixtures in buildings.

How to get started: To be an electrician, you must have a high school certificate and good numeracy and communication skills.

Why we like it

  • Requires a short training period

Possible downsides

  • The job can be physically demanding

18. Food Service Managers

Median wage: $30.29 hourly

About the job: The job involves overseeing the daily operations of any establishment that offers food and beverages.

How to get started: To be a food service manager, you need a high school diploma and vocational training.

Why we like it

  • You get to interact with and provide services to customers

Possible downsides

  • You may experience cultural barriers

19. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Median wage: $30.02 hourly

About the job: It entails installing and maintaining pipes carrying water, chemicals, or gases.

How to get started: To qualify for the job, you should have good analytical and problem-solving skills and an excellent apprenticeship.

Why we like it

  • There are worker development plans

Possible downsides

  • There is a high risk of injury

20. Mining Machine Operators

Median wage: $31.09 hourly

About the job: The job involves drilling holes and excavating rocks and metals.

How to get started: To qualify for the job, you must be able to read blueprints, schematics, and manuals. You must also pay attention to details and possess strong analytical and interpersonal skills.

Why we like it

  • Workers get a performance bonus

Possible downsides

  • The job can be tiring

21. Wellhead Pumpers

Median wage: $31.02 hourly

About the job: Operating pumps that mine oil and gas out of wells into storage tanks and pipelines.

How to get started: To get the job, you must have a high school diploma and be attentive to details.

Why we like it

  •  There is a high chance of career growth

Possible downsides

  • The job is physically demanding

22. Housekeeping

Median wage: $30.57 hourly

About the job: It involves cleaning and reporting any emerging issues to the homeowner.

How to get started: You need at least a high school certificate and excellent communication and interpersonal skills to get the job.

Why we like it

  • You can work anytime

Possible downsides

  • You may work for long hours

23. Lodging Manager

Median wage: $31.50 hourly

About the job: Ensuring guests have a pleasant experience at any accommodation establishment.

How to get started: Applicants must possess excellent customer service and interpersonal and problem-solving skills. But, of course, they must be well-trained too.

Why we like it

  •  You will have an active job

Possible downsides

  • You may be required to work during holidays

24. Ironworkers

Median wage: $31.30 hourly

About the job: Involves heating, cutting, and bending huge metal components for structural work.

How to get started: Applicants must demonstrate impressive physical stamina, attention to detail, and good interpersonal skills.

Why we like it

  •   You get to work in a variety of settings

Possible downsides

  • It is physically demanding

25. Hair Dressing

Median wage: $30.43 hourly

About the job: Include washing, styling, cutting, and coloring customers’ hair to fit their face structures properly.

How to get started: Applicants must demonstrate high tidiness, great customer–service, self-confidence, and creativity.

Why we like it

  •    It requires a short training period

Possible downsides

  • There is a lot of competition

26. Postal Service Workers

Median wage: $31.45 hourly

About the job: The job entails delivering and collecting letters, and other essential parcels for businesses and homes.

How to get started: Applicants must have at least a high school certificate and on-the-job training.

Why we like it

  • You will always have a job

Possible downsides

  • The job is physically demanding

27. Wind Turbine Technicians

Median wage: $30.40 hourly

About the job: The job involves monitoring, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines.

How to get started: Applicants must have a high school diploma, good physical stamina, and coordination.

Why we like it

  • You can specialize

Possible downsides

  • You may be required to work for long hours

28. Chef and Head Cooks

Median wage: $30.45 hourly

About the job: It involves overseeing daily food preparations in establishments that serve food.

How to get started: Besides a high school certificate, applicants must have excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Why we like it

  •  You’ll have a short training period

Possible downsides

  • Long working hours

29. Firefighters

Median wage: $31.03 hourly

About the job: Entails responding to fire accidents or incidents that may cause a fire.

How to get started: Applicants should at least have a high school certificate and be a promising apprentices in emergency medical services.

Why we like it

  •    Workers are treated with relaxation services

Possible downsides

  • High risk of injury

30. Riggers

Median wage: $30.67 hourly

About the job: The job involves moving heavy loads around work sites using rigging gear such as cranes.

How to get started: To be a rigger, you must have good communication skills, impressive spatial awareness, and in-depth knowledge of rigging.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered benefits and paid time off

Possible downsides

  • There is a high risk of danger

While college degrees aren’t worthless, not having one shouldn’t limit you from securing a good job. Also, no single job suits all job seekers. There are tons of well-paying job openings that match each and everyone’s skill level.

Jobs That Make $5,000 a Month and Require a Degree

The phrase “a degree or equivalent experience” is often used in most job adverts. So, what does that mean for you? A degree is much preferable, but may not be necessary if you can demonstrate through your portfolio or past work that you have the required skill set.

However, some jobs will require a specific degree, such as teaching or engineering. If you’re looking for a job that pays $30 an hour or more and requires a degree, here are some positions to consider:

31. Purchasing Agents and Buyers

Median wage: $30.02 hourly

About the job: Buyers and purchasing agents are representatives of a company who locate potential products for them to resell. They typically work in an office setting but may travel to suppliers’ locations as needed. 

How to get started: Applicant should have a degree in business, accounting, or a related field. Additionally, a potential purchasing agent and buyer are expected to possess the following skills:

  • Negotiation skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Good interpersonal skills

Why we like it:

  • It offers the chance to work in various industries and learn about different products and services.
  • Workers are ensured of job security

Potential downsides

  • Employment in this field is slated to decline by 2030

32. Multimedia Artists and Animators

Median wage: $30.02 hourly

About the job: Multimedia artists and animators use computer programs and illustrations to create a movie, game, or visual effect. They also research upcoming projects to help realistically design animations.

How to get started: A potential applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts or a related field. Other essential requirements include:

  • Creative thinking
  • Impressive time management skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Google Suite

Why we like it

  • Workers get to earn benefits such as paid vacations

Potential downsides

  • The work can be repetitive
  • There is intense pressure to meet deadlines

33. Loan Officers

Median wage: $31.45 hourly

About the job: Loan officers work for banks or independent financial lending institutions. They assist borrowers in a loan application and review the client’s credit report before approving or rejecting a loan request. They must have extensive knowledge in the field and be able to work with customers.

How to get started: To qualify as a loan officer, you must have:

  • At least a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field in banking
  • A National Mortgage Licensing Service
  • Analytical, interpersonal, and computer skills

Why we like it

  • Workers are given complete benefit packages

Potential Downsides

  • Potential workers may experience a weaker work-life balance.

 34. Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators

Median wage: $30.41 hourly

About the job: Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators help conflicting parties settle disputes outside the court. They help facilitate disputants towards a dialogue.

How to get started: Becoming an arbitrator, mediator, or conciliator requires:

  • At least a college degree at the entry-level level
  • Skills acquired through education, training, and work experience

Why we like it

  • There is a huge career growth potential

Potential Downsides

  • Long working hours

35. Insurance Underwriters

Median wage: $30.45 hourly

About the job: Insurance underwriters act as a link between an insurance company and an insurance agent. They use computer software programs to determine whether to approve a loan or not.

How to get started: To qualify as an insurance underwriter, you need a bachelor’s degree in economics, business, accounting, or finance. You may also be required to possess analytical, computer, and communications skills.

Why we like it

  • Underwrites work in safe environments

Possible downsides

  • The job can be demanding

36. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Median wage: $30.60 hourly

About the job: A sonographer is trained to acquire and analyze sonographic images. They use imaging equipment and sound waves to form images of body parts.

How to get started: An aspiring sonographer is required to provide a bachelor’s degree in sonography. The applicants must also have strong communication, technical, interpersonal, and patient service skills.

Why we like it

  • You can work in different settings

Possible downsides

  • Needs physical endurance

37. Film and Video Editors

Median wage: $30.62 hourly

About the job: This job entails editing film footage until it meets the required standards. Film and video editors also work with materials such as graphics and sound effects.

How to get started: To qualify as a film and video editor, one needs at least a bachelor’s degree in film studies or cinematography.

Why we like it

  • You will always have a job

Possible downsides

  • You have to work long hours in front of a computer

38. Food Scientists

Median wage: $30.95 hourly

About the job: A food scientist determines the nutrient levels of food by studying its content. They work in the food processing industry.

How to get started: To become a food scientist, you need a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, food science, nutrition, or chemistry.

Why we like it

  • Food scientists are offered full package benefits

Possible downsides

  • One may end up gaining weight

39. Animal Scientists

Median wage: $31.02 hourly

About the job: The job involves researching animals, with a focus on their genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and their overall development.

How to get started: The hiring manager requires you to have a bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from an accredited institution. You must also have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered complete benefits packages and job security

Possible downsides:

  • It has long working hours

40. Writers

Median wage: $31.04 hourly

About the job: The job entails researching and composing content for articles, blogs, websites, or movie scripts. They may also work across genres, from fiction to poetry, nonfiction to satire.

How to get started: To be a writer, you need a bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis on writing and creative writing.

Why we like it

  • You can work anytime from anywhere

Possible downsides

  • The competition for jobs and clients is stiff

41. Urban and Regional Planners

Median wage: $31.04 hourly

About the job: Urban and regional planners formulate long-term and short-term plans for land use, developing and revitalizing urban and rural areas and their region. They recommend the locations for roads and schools and suggest zoning regulations for private properties.

How to get started: To become an urban and regional planner, you need to have a degree in planning or public policy from an accredited institution.

Why we like it

  • You’ll get to work with cool projects

Possible downsides

  • The hiring process may take a long time

44. Landscape Architects

Median wage: $31.69 hourly

About the job: The job entails designing attractive and functional external spaces such as residential areas and public parks.

How to get started: To be a landscape architect, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and internship experience.

Why we like it

  • You get to work in a variety of settings

Possible downsides

  • The job can be very demanding and exhausting

45. Accountants

Median wage: $32.42 hourly

About the Job: It involves preparing financial statements through researching and analyzing accounting data.

How to get started: You should have a bachelor’s degree in accounting and hands-on experience with FreshBooks and QuickBooks.

Why we like it

  • You can work from anywhere

Possible downsides

  • Fierce competition

46. Market Research Analysts

Median wage: $32.45 hourly

About the job: The job entails researching, compiling, and analyzing details on market conditions and products to discover potential new markets and the best ways of marketing a product.

How to get started: To qualify for the job, you need a bachelor’s degree in market research and excellent communication skills.

Why we like it

  • You can work from anywhere

Possible downsides

  • You may be required to work overtime

47. Dental Hygienists

Median wage: $32.63 hourly

About the job: The job involves cleaning patients’ teeth and advising them on oral hygiene and health.

How to get started: To become a dental hygienist, you must obtain a diploma in dental hygiene and a state licensing.

Why we like it

  • It is one of the safer medical careers

Possible downsides

  • At times, you may have undesirable schedules

48. Speech-language Pathologists

Median wage:$32.86 hourly

About the job: The job entails helping patients communicate and swallow properly by designing therapy and treatment plans.

How to get started: To become a speech-language pathologist, you must obtain a state license and a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered a chance to specialize

Possible downsides

  • The career involves extensive schooling

49. Nuclear Medicine Technologists

 Median wage: $32.91 hourly

About the job: It involves working with radioactive materials and equipment when carrying out scans for diagnostic purposes.

How to get started: To be a nuclear medicine technologist, one must have at least a bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology from an accredited institution.

Why we like it

  • You’ll have a decent job security

Possible downsides

  • Extended working hours

50. Occupational Therapists

Median wage: $33.98 hourly

About the job: It involves helping injured patients regain, improve, and develop their ability to perform daily work.

How to get started: An occupational therapist requires extensive learning and a master’s degree in occupational therapy.

Why we like it

  • It is possible to have a flexible program

Possible downsides

  • The job can be physically demanding

Geographers

Median wage: $34.33 hourly

About the job: Geographers study the earth, its features, inhabitants, and land distribution.

How to get started: To qualify as one, you need a bachelor’s degree in geography or geography information systems.

Why we like it

  • You get paid to travel

Possible downsides

  • You may be required to travel to hostile environments to conduct research.

51. School Psychologists

Median wage: $34.77 hourly

About the job: Involves evaluating and counseling high-risk learners.

How to get started: You must obtain a master’s degree in school psychology or psychology.

Why we like it

  • There is a low risk of burnout

Possible downsides

  • You must pass a state licensing exam

52. Fashion Designers

Median wage:$35.78 hourly

About the job: It involves researching trending styles and taking inspiration to create innovative clothing designs.

How to get started: To be a fashion designer, you must have a bachelor’s degree in design or fine arts.

Why we like it

  • You can always maintain your social contacts

Possible downsides

  • It may involve long working hours to meet deadlines

53. Operations Research Analysts

Median wage: $36.23 hourly

About the job: Evaluating and managing data to improve business operations and decision-making.

How to get started: To qualify for the job, you must have a bachelor’s degree in operations research, business, or computer science.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered complete package benefits such as medical insurance

 Possible downsides

  • Long working hour

54. Sociologists

Median wage: $36.63 hourly

About the job: It entails studying human behavior, interaction, and organization.

How to get started: A sociologist typically needs a master’s degree in sociology or a similar field.

Why we like it

  • You get to have a decent work-life balance

Possible downsides

  • It's challenging to get a job without prior experience

55. Physical Therapists

Median wage: $36.64 hourly

About the job: It entails helping patients progress their movement and manage their pain.

How to get started: To become a physical therapist, you must have a master’s degree in physical therapy from an accredited institution.

Why we like it

  • New workers are offered paid training

Possible downsides

  • You must pass a national therapy exam to be licensed

56. Architects

Median wage: $37.93 hourly

About the job: It involves designing and controlling new construction projects to ensure high-quality and functional structures.

How to get started: Hiring managers require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture from a recognized institution.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered full package benefits and training

Possible downsides

  • It means you are responsible for the safety and well-being of the general public

57. Educational Administrators

Median wage: $38.53 hourly

About the job: It entails ensuring that educational institutions are running smoothly. Budget allocation, curriculum standardization, and class schedule preparation and logistics fall under the purview of an educational administrator.

How to get started: To qualify for the job, you must possess solid problem-solving and analytical skills. You must also have a degree in education or a related field.

Why we like it

  • You get paid to travel

Possible downsides

  • It involves lots of paperwork

58. Environmental Engineers

Median wage: $38.82 hourly

About the job: It involves finding innovative solutions to environmental problems such as waste disposal and air pollution.

How to get started: To become an environmental engineer, you must obtain a bachelor’s degree in environmental, civil, or mechanical engineering.

Why we like it

  • Workers are offered benefits and perks

Possible downsides

  • Requires extensive skills and knowledge

59. Civil Engineers

Median wage: $39.03 hourly

About the job: It involves overseeing the construction and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure such as roads and sewerage systems.

How to get started: Civil engineers need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or civil engineering technology as a minimum requirement.

Why we like it

  • Workers get paid to travel

Possible downsides

  • There are high risks of injury at the site

60. Material Scientist

Median wage: $39.59 hourly

About the job: The job necessitates researching structures and chemical properties of materials such as alloys and polymers to develop new products.

How to get started: To qualify for a material scientist job, you must have a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, or engineering.

Why we like it

  • There is a high chance of career growth

Possible downsides

  • Research and experiments require long working hours

Summary

These aren't your only options for finding a higher-paying job but these job ideas are a good place to start. Only you are responsible for finding a job that can help you progress through your career.

So consider the options that we have provided that really do pay $5,000 a month or more and consider taking a look at more lucrative ways to make $1,000 fast this month.

Brian Meiggs
Brian Meiggs
Brian Meiggs is a personal finance expert, and the founder of Hustler Gigs, a personal blog helping you make extra money in the gig economy. He helps readers increase their earning potential and start building wealth for the future. He regularly writes about side hustles, gig work, and the gig economy aimed to help anyone earn more, pay off debt, and reach financial freedom. He has been quoted as a top personal finance blogger in major publications including Insider, Yahoo! Finance, NASDAQ, Discover, MSN Money and more.
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