Average Salary by Industry in the United States (2025 Guide)

Highest-Paying Industries and Typical Salaries

Certain industries consistently rank at the top for average pay. Technology and software development, finance and investment banking, healthcare (physicians, specialized surgeons, and some advanced practice providers), and energy (especially oil, gas, and renewables with senior technical roles) often report the highest average salaries. For example, senior roles in software engineering and data science frequently command six-figure incomes, while top-tier financial managers, investment bankers, and specialized physicians exceed that mark. These averages reflect a mix of high base salaries, performance bonuses, and equity or profit-sharing in some sectors. Keep in mind that industry averages include a wide distribution — entry-level roles and nontechnical jobs within the same industry typically earn much less than executives or specialists.

Midrange and Entry-Level Industries: What to Expect

Many industries provide solid middle-income opportunities but with less dramatic top-end variance. Education, hospitality and leisure, retail, and many public-sector roles tend to cluster in midrange salaries. Healthcare roles such as registered nurses, therapists, and certain allied health professions fall into the middle-to-upper middle range depending on specialty and setting. Manufacturing and construction offer respectable pay, particularly for skilled trades and supervisory positions. Entry-level salaries are often influenced by required credentials, licensing, and on-the-job training; for example, technical certifications or apprenticeships in trades can rapidly increase wages compared with typical entry-level corporate roles.

Factors That Influence Salaries and How to Boost Your Pay

Several factors drive differences in average salary by industry in United States: geographic cost of living, company size and profitability, demand for specialized skills, experience and education level, and prevailing labor market conditions. Location matters — the same role pays more in major metro areas with higher living costs. To boost earning potential, focus on building in-demand skills (cloud computing, data analysis, regulatory expertise, or specialized clinical skills), earn relevant certifications, pursue advanced degrees when it makes financial sense, and target employers known for competitive compensation. Negotiation, networking, and switching to higher-paying industries or niche roles can also produce substantial salary gains. Finally, monitor industry trends and compensation reports to benchmark offers and plan career moves strategically.