These 14 Jobs Will Grow the Fastest Between Now and 2031

Some jobs may have better prospects than others when it comes to short-term gains, but what about long-term growth?

If you're trying to decide what career to pursue, you probably want one with good growth prospects to help you get ahead financially.

Check out these jobs that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects to grow the most by 2031. And remember that the average national growth rate for 2022 to 2031 is 3% for all jobs.

Growth rate: 23%

Operations research analysts are problem-solvers who use math and logic to solve complex issues. They're in high demand across lots of different industries.

To start as an operations research analyst, you'll usually need at least a bachelor's degree, but a master's can give you an edge. The average yearly salary for these analysts is around $83,640.

Growth rate: 23%

Computer and information research scientists are at the forefront of technological innovation, designing novel applications for new and existing computer technology. 

According to BLS data, these professionals earn an average annual salary of $145,080.

Growth rate: 23%

Actuaries are quantitative analysts who primarily work in the insurance industry. While many are employed full-time in office settings, some actuaries specialize in consulting and travel to meet with clients. 

The annual median salary for actuaries is $120,000. A bachelor's degree is typically required to pursue a career as an actuary, followed by successful completion of a series of professional examinations.

Growth rate: 24%

An occupational therapy assistant (OTA) helps patients with daily living activities. Many OTAs work with people who have limited mobility or developmental disabilities.

The specific tasks of an OTA will depend on the patient's needs. OTAs work with occupational therapists to create personalized care plans for each patient and monitor their progress.

OTAs earn a good salary, with a median annual wage of $65,450. You can become an OTA with an associate's degree.

Growth rate: 26%

Software developers work in various fields, including developing computer applications and programs. Quality assurance analysts and testers identify and report application or program defects.

Some companies require a bachelor's degree, while others prefer developers with a master's degree. In 2023, the average salary for these positions was $130,160 per year.

Growth rate: 26%

Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of physical therapists to help clients regain movement after an injury or illness.

All states require physical therapy assistants to have an associate’s degree from an accredited program. You can expect to earn a median annual income of $58,740 per year, according to the BLS.

Growth rate: 27%

Another growing job in the health care industry is physician assistant. You can take on clients for a variety of health care needs and work under the supervision of a doctor or physician.

Physician assistants make $130,020 in median annual income, but that could vary depending on where you work and what field you specialize in. You’ll also likely need a master’s degree to work and be licensed in your state.

Growth rate: 27%

Epidemiologists are public health professionals who study the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease within a population. They work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, hospitals, and universities.

To become an epidemiologist, you typically need at least a master's degree in public health (MPH) or a related field.

The median annual wage for epidemiologists is $81,390.

Growth rate: 28%

Medical health services managers deal with the business side of health care such as preparing budgets for medical departments, organizing records for facilities, or improving the quality of services.

A bachelor’s degree is helpful to enter the field, and some health services managers may even have a master’s degree. You can expect to earn a median salary of $110,680 per year.

Growth rate: 32%

An information security analyst is responsible for planning and executing security measures for an organization or company’s computer network.

You usually need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you can make a median annual salary of $120,360.

Growth rate: 32%

Statisticians review data and use it to find different answers to questions or analyze it to solve problems.

A statistician usually needs a bachelor’s degree in math or a related field and can expect to earn a median annual income of $104,860, according to the BLS.

Growth rate: 35%

Data scientists use specific tools and techniques to help you organize data and come up with specific conclusions as part of their study of particular information.

Data scientists usually need a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or a related field and can earn a median annual income of $108,020.

Growth rate: 38%

Nurse practitioners coordinate patient care and may be responsible for interacting with patients in providing general or specific care.

A nurse practitioner can expect to earn a median annual salary of $129,480, according to the BLS. You’ll need at least a master’s degree in the field and a license from the state where you practice.

Growth rate: 45%

As clean electricity options increase, there will be more demand for wind turbine technicians who are responsible for maintaining and repairing wind turbines.

According to the BLS, technicians typically receive on-the-job training and can earn a median annual salary of $61,770.

If you want to stop living paycheck to paycheck, consider a career in a growing field in which you can earn a good living. If you prepare yourself now, you may find you will lead the competition as the field grows.

Remember to do some digging before you pursue any careers on this list to find out the requirements for each position or see which field that’s right for you.