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These 10 Jobs Proved To Be Inflation-Proof

These 10 surprising careers have managed to outpace inflation and provide financial stability over the past decade.

By Adam Palasciano

Edited by Ellen Cannon

Updated Dec. 17, 2024

In an economy where inflation often outpaces wage growth, many workers have found their salaries stagnating while living costs rise. However, certain jobs have bucked this trend, proving to be resilient against inflation and even surpassing it over the past decade.

The average inflation rate over the past 10 years has been 31%, but some professions have seen their wages rise significantly more than that. If you’re contemplating a career move to help you move beyond living paycheck to paycheck, this list of inflation-proof jobs might surprise you.

According to a recent study by FinanceBuzz, which analyzed Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) salary data for American jobs from 2013 to 2023, 10 jobs have experienced salary increases well above the inflation rate. FinanceBuzz's methodology involved tracking wage data across various industries and identifying the sectors where salary growth outstripped inflation.

Here are 10 careers that have not only kept pace with inflation but have also outperformed it, offering a promising path for those seeking economic stability.

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Security guards

2013 salary: $27,550
2023 salary: $40,440 (+47%)
Difference from national inflation: +16%

Security guards have experienced a 47% wage increase, clearly reflecting an emphasis on safety and security across various industries.

As businesses and organizations invest more in protecting their assets and personnel, the demand for security services will likely continue to rise.

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Childcare workers

2013 salary: $21,490
2023 salary: $32,070 (+49%)
Difference from national inflation: +18%

Childcare workers have benefited from a 49% increase in wages over the last decade. As parents increasingly recognize the importance of quality childcare and education, the demand for skilled and compassionate childcare providers has grown.

This profession offers opportunities for career growth, especially for those pursuing additional training and certifications in child development and education.

Cashiers

2013 salary: $20,420
2023 salary: $30,710 (+50%)
Difference from national inflation: +19%

Cashiers, often considered entry-level positions, have nonetheless seen their wages increase by 50% over the last decade. The push for higher minimum wages and the evolution of retail have likely played a part in this growth.

Individuals who adapt by learning new skills and taking on multifaceted responsibilities within retail environments can continue to find financial stability in this sector.

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Cooks

2013 salary: $22,440
2023 salary: $34,360 (+53%)
Difference from national inflation: +22%

Cooks have also experienced a significant salary increase. With a 53% salary growth, this profession offers a promising pathway for those passionate about food and cooking.

Housecleaners

2013 salary: $22,130
2023 salary: $34,650 (+57%)
Difference from national inflation: +26%

Housecleaners have enjoyed a 57% rise in wages, reflecting the growing demand for cleaning services in both residential and commercial sectors.

This increase may be due to the busier lifestyles of individuals who seek more convenience and who can afford to outsource cleaning tasks.

Fast-food workers

2013 salary: $18,980
2023 salary: $30,110 (+59%)
Difference from national inflation: +28%

Fast-food workers have seen a notable increase in their salaries as well. This 59% wage growth suggests that even traditionally low-paying jobs can offer improved financial prospects in the right economic climate.

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Journalists

2013 salary: $36,000
2023 salary: $57,500 (+60%)
Difference from national inflation: +29%

Despite the digital revolution and the decline of traditional print media, journalists have managed to increase their earnings significantly. The demand for quality content and investigative reporting has remained strong, especially in digital and broadcast media.

Journalists who adapt to new media trends and possess multimedia skills are well-positioned to thrive financially, as evidenced by the 60% wage growth in this field over the past 10 years.

Farmers

2013 salary: $22,080
2023 salary: $37,370 (+69%)
Difference from national inflation: +38%

While farming is often seen as a challenging profession with volatile income, farmers have surprisingly seen their earnings grow by 69% over the past decade. The profession seems to offer financial stability and offers protection from inflation.

Bartenders

2013 salary: $21,770
2023 salary: $37,090 (+70%)
Difference from national inflation: +39%

Bartenders have similarly experienced significant wage growth, benefiting from the same factors that have boosted servers' earnings. The 70% salary increase indicates that bartending can be a lucrative career choice, particularly in upscale venues where customer spending is high.

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Servers

2013 salary: $20,880
2023 salary: $36,530 (+75%)
Difference from national inflation: +44%

Despite being traditionally viewed as low-wage jobs, servers have seen a substantial increase in wages over the last decade. With a 75% salary increase, servers have seen their earnings outpace inflation by 44%.

This demonstrates the potential financial viability of service-industry positions, especially in high-demand restaurant locations and establishments that attract affluent clientele.

Bottom line

While many professions struggle to keep up with inflation, these 10 jobs have proven to be resilient, offering growth opportunities that surpass national inflation rates.

If you’re looking for a part-time job to earn some extra money, these jobs may offer the flexibility and salary you need.

Are you currently in a profession that offers similar growth opportunities? It’s essential to consider how your career path aligns with economic trends and to strategize accordingly to secure your financial future. For those contemplating a career change or entering the job market, exploring these inflation-proof professions might be a wise decision.

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