Landing your first job can feel like a catch-22: you need experience to get hired, but you need a job to gain experience. Fortunately, in 2025, more employers are recognizing the value of skills over credentials, and that’s good news for job seekers looking for entry-level positions with solid pay.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, switching careers, or jumping into the workforce for the first time, here are some of the best-paying entry-level jobs in 2025—and how to land one.
1. Software Developer
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $70,000–$90,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent experience (bootcamps, online courses, portfolio of projects)
The demand for software developers continues to grow in nearly every industry, from healthcare to finance. While senior developers command six-figure salaries, many companies are eager to train and hire junior developers who show strong potential.
Tip: Build a portfolio of small projects or contribute to open-source repositories. Even a simple app or website can help demonstrate your skills.
2. Data Analyst
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $60,000–$75,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Proficiency in Excel, SQL, Python or R, and data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI
Companies are hungry for data to inform decision-making, and they need analysts to gather insights. Entry-level roles may focus on reporting and cleaning data, but they offer a direct path to data science or business intelligence roles.
Tip: Complete a few capstone projects with real datasets (available on Kaggle or Google Dataset Search) to showcase your analytical thinking.
3. Digital Marketing Specialist
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $50,000–$65,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Certifications in Google Ads, SEO, social media marketing, email marketing tools (like Mailchimp or HubSpot)
Digital marketing is results-driven. If you can show how you’ve increased engagement, leads, or traffic—even on a small scale—you can earn a spot on a marketing team.
Tip: Start a personal blog, run ads for a local business, or manage a social media page to get hands-on experience.
4. Sales Representative (Tech or SaaS)
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $55,000 base + commission (potential total: $80,000+)
- Education/Skills Needed: Strong communication, resilience, CRM experience (Salesforce, HubSpot)
Sales isn’t just about cold calls anymore. Many SaaS (Software as a Service) companies offer structured onboarding and generous compensation plans—even for new hires.
Tip: Tailor your resume to highlight interpersonal skills, and be prepared for roleplay scenarios during interviews.
5. Registered Nurse (RN)
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $65,000–$75,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, NCLEX-RN license
Healthcare workers remain in high demand. While nursing requires formal training and licensure, it’s one of the few fields where you can earn a strong salary right from the start—and job security is a major perk.
Tip: Consider accelerated nursing programs if you’re switching careers.
6. UX/UI Designer
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $60,000–$75,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Design portfolio, experience with tools like Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD
User experience is crucial in modern digital products, and companies are investing in thoughtful design. Even without a design degree, a strong portfolio can help you stand out.
Tip: Create mock apps or redesign popular websites to build a portfolio. Sites like Dribbble and Behance can offer inspiration.
7. Electrician Apprentice
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $45,000–$60,000
- Education/Skills Needed: High school diploma, trade school or apprenticeship
Skilled trades are making a comeback. With demand outpacing supply, apprenticeships in fields like electrical work offer great pay, benefits, and the opportunity to become licensed professionals within a few years.
Tip: Check local unions or trade associations for apprenticeship openings.
8. Paralegal or Legal Assistant
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $50,000–$60,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Associate’s degree or certificate in paralegal studies
If you’re interested in law but not ready for law school, becoming a paralegal offers exposure to legal research, writing, and client communications—plus a respectable starting salary.
Tip: Gain experience through internships with local law firms or legal aid organizations.
9. Cybersecurity Analyst (Junior Level)
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $65,000–$80,000
- Education/Skills Needed: CompTIA Security+, knowledge of networking and security fundamentals
Cybersecurity threats continue to grow, and organizations are investing heavily in protection. Many start their careers in Security Operations Centers (SOCs) or as support analysts.
Tip: Get certified (Security+, CEH, or similar) and build a home lab to practice your skills.
10. Radiologic Technologist
- Average Entry-Level Salary: $55,000–$70,000
- Education/Skills Needed: Associate’s degree and certification/licensure (ARRT)
This is another great option in the healthcare field for those who prefer imaging and diagnostic work over direct patient care. The job outlook is strong, and the salary is competitive for an entry-level role.
Final Thoughts
Getting a high-paying job right out of the gate in 2025 is absolutely possible—even without a traditional four-year degree. The key is to develop practical, demonstrable skills, whether through formal education, online courses, certifications, or self-directed learning.
As industries evolve and prioritize skills over titles, more doors are opening for ambitious entry-level workers. Focus on building your skill set, polishing your resume, and being proactive about opportunities. The future of work is here—and it’s more accessible than ever.
Looking for real, high-paying entry-level jobs near you?
Check out our latest listings at Realistic Job Previews and jumpstart your career today.
