High-Paying Jobs in New York City Without a Degree (Top 10 Careers for 2025)
High-Paying Jobs in New York City Without a Degree (Top 10 Careers for 2025)
You don’t need a four-year degree to land a well-paying career in New York City. Many industries in NYC offer stable jobs with strong salaries, benefits, and advancement opportunities—all without college. Here are the 10 best careers in New York City that don’t require a degree, ranked for 2025, with one career standing above the rest.
1. Transit Worker (MTA)
The MTA employs thousands across NYC, offering subway and bus operator roles that start strong and increase with seniority. With union protection, pensions, and benefits, MTA workers can earn $70,000–$100,000 after a few years.
2. Real Estate Agent
Real estate in NYC is fast-paced and competitive, but with only a state license required, agents can build six-figure incomes from commissions alone. This field is especially strong in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
3. Construction Worker / Skilled Trades
Construction fuels NYC’s constant growth. Union apprenticeships in plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work provide paid training and eventual salaries of $60,000–$100,000+.
4. Security Guard
Security guards are in demand citywide. With a short state licensing process, you can start quickly, earning $35,000–$55,000, with advancement into corporate or supervisory positions.
5. Delivery Driver (CDL)
Delivery drivers with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are essential for NYC’s logistics network. Jobs with UPS, FedEx, and Amazon pay $50,000–$70,000+ annually, with strong overtime potential.
6. IT Support Specialist
Tech support is a growing need for NYC businesses. Certifications like CompTIA A+ are often enough to get started. Salaries range from $45,000–$60,000, with paths into cybersecurity or network engineering.
7. Elevator Mechanic
NYC skyscrapers rely on elevator mechanics, one of the city’s best-paid trades. Apprentices earn while they train, and experienced mechanics often make $90,000–$120,000+ a year.
8. Electrician
Union electricians can earn $80,000–$100,000+, powering residential and commercial projects across the city. Apprenticeships offer on-the-job training with no degree required.
9. Firefighter (FDNY)
One of the most respected careers in NYC, firefighters start at $50,000 and quickly grow to six figures with overtime and promotions. Requirements include a high school diploma, fitness tests, and academy training.
10. Dental Assistant (Best Career Choice Without a Degree)
Among all the options, Dental Assistant is the best job in NYC without a college degree. Here’s why:
Requirements: Complete a CODA-accredited program, pass national and state exams, and apply for licensure with the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
Salary: Most NYC dental assistants earn $45,000–$60,000 annually, with higher pay in specialized practices or hospitals.
Job Outlook: Dentistry is a rapidly growing field, offering strong job security.
Career Growth: Licensed dental assistants can advance into Expanded Functions roles or become dental hygienists.
With stability, career mobility, and strong pay, Dental Assistant ranks as the #1 choice for New Yorkers seeking a rewarding career without a degree.
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.
