10 Highest Paying Trade School Careers in 2025: Best Trades to Go Into Without a Four-Year Degree
10 Highest Paying Trade School Careers in 2025: Best Trades to Go Into Without a Four-Year Degree
Trade schools are more popular than ever, especially for students who want a stable career without the high cost of a four-year college. These programs focus on hands-on training and specific skills, often completed in one to three years. Graduates can enter high-demand careers that pay well, with many trades offering salaries above the national average.
If you’re wondering what the highest paying trade school careers are, here’s a full breakdown of the best trades to go into in 2025.
1. Elevator Installer and Repair Technician
Elevator installers and repair technicians are consistently ranked as one of the highest paying vocational jobs. They install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and lifts. The work requires strong technical knowledge, but most workers enter through a trade program combined with an apprenticeship.
Training: 4 years (apprenticeship)
Average Salary: $85,000 – $100,000+
Why It Pays Well: Specialized safety skills and constant demand in urban development.
2. Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists help doctors deliver radiation treatments to cancer patients. This trade requires certification but can be achieved through a two- to three-year program at a trade school or community college.
Training: 2–3 years
Average Salary: $80,000 – $95,000
Why It Pays Well: Healthcare specialization with growing demand.
3. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
This role involves using imaging equipment and radioactive drugs for diagnosis and treatment. Programs last about two years and lead to certification.
Training: 2 years
Average Salary: $75,000 – $90,000
Why It Pays Well: Advanced medical imaging skills are in short supply.
4. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists perform cleanings, x-rays, and patient education. It’s a top pick for those who want a steady healthcare trade career.
Training: 2–3 years
Average Salary: $75,000 – $90,000
Why It Pays Well: Essential role in dentistry, often with flexible hours.
5. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Sonographers operate ultrasound machines for medical exams and pregnancies. With strong job growth, it is one of the best trades to go into for healthcare.
Training: 2 years
Average Salary: $70,000 – $85,000
Why It Pays Well: Specialized imaging expertise that hospitals need daily.
6. Web Developer
Many trade schools now offer programs for web development, often completed in less than two years. Developers design and manage websites and apps.
Training: 1–2 years
Average Salary: $65,000 – $90,000+
Why It Pays Well: High demand for tech skills in all industries.
7. Electrician
Electricians are essential for construction, repairs, and renewable energy projects. Apprenticeships and trade programs usually take 4–5 years, but you earn while you learn.
Training: 4–5 years (apprenticeship)
Average Salary: $65,000 – $85,000+
Why It Pays Well: Licensed skills that are always in demand.
8. Plumber
Plumbers handle water and sewage systems, both residential and commercial. It’s a hands-on job with strong earning potential, especially for those who open their own business.
Training: 4 years (apprenticeship)
Average Salary: $60,000 – $75,000+
Why It Pays Well: Specialized trade with room for self-employment and growth.
9. Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists treat patients with asthma, lung disease, or post-surgical breathing issues. The field grew rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to expand.
Training: 2 years
Average Salary: $65,000 – $80,000
Why It Pays Well: High healthcare demand and life-saving skills.
10. HVAC Technician
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians work with climate systems in homes, offices, and factories. With increased focus on energy efficiency, the demand keeps rising.
Training: 1–2 years
Average Salary: $55,000 – $70,000+
Why It Pays Well: Specialized systems knowledge and strong year-round demand.
Why Trade School Jobs Are Worth It
The best trade school careers pay well because they involve technical skills that can’t easily be replaced by automation or outsourcing. Fields like healthcare, construction, and technology need trained workers now more than ever. Trade schools also offer a faster path to employment compared to traditional colleges, often with much lower tuition costs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Trades to Go Into
Trade school is no longer seen as a backup option. It’s one of the smartest investments for students who want high-paying, stable careers. Whether you choose healthcare, construction, or technology, these highest paying vocational jobs give you financial stability, job security, and opportunities for advancement.
If you’re considering trade school, the careers above represent some of the best-paying and fastest-growing options available today.
Also, if you're searching for more than just a job, moreover, a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential; then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Furthermore, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
Contact NYSMDA today and get your career started!
