The most and least stressful jobs can shape your well-being, not just your income. With over 80 percent of professionals reporting work-related stress, knowing which careers are high-pressure and which are low-stress is crucial.
Some jobs demand urgency and risk, while others offer calm and control. This stress job comparison explores both ends, from high-stress careers to top low-stress jobs.
You will find rankings, salary insights, career outlooks, and practical advice to help you choose or transition into a role that fits your life.
Key Takeaway
- The most and least stressful jobs differ widely in pressure, risk, routine, and emotional demands.
- High stress careers often offer prestige and pay but come with intense responsibility and burnout risk.
- Low stress careers provide stability, autonomy, and are increasingly valued for long-term wellbeing.
- With the right skills and planning, transitioning to a lower-stress role is realistic and achievable.
How We Ranked the Most and Least Stressful Jobs
Understanding how we ranked the most and least stressful jobs helps you trust the insights that follow.
This analysis is based on structured data, not guesswork, using verified sources and clearly defined stress factors.
Key Criteria Used
We looked at a range of workplace stress indicators common across industries. These include:
| Stress Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Workload and Deadlines | Frequency of urgent tasks and tight turnaround times. |
| Public or Client Interaction | Regular exposure to emotionally charged or high-pressure interactions. |
| Risk to Physical Safety | Exposure to dangerous environments or physical hazards. |
| Job Predictability | Consistency in daily tasks and scheduling. |
| Control and Autonomy | Degree to which the worker controls how and when they complete tasks. |
| Consequences of Error | Potential fallout if mistakes are made. |
Each job on our list was assessed using these factors, weighted against data from industry sources such as the Occupational Information Network (O*NET), Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and recent workforce surveys.
Sources of Data
To ensure accuracy, we cross-referenced findings from:
- O*NET Stress Tolerance Scores: A government-backed resource that scores job stress based on real input from workers.
- BLS Data: Provides salary, job outlook, and working conditions across hundreds of roles.
- Industry Surveys: Includes Gallup, American Psychological Association (APA), and LinkedIn workplace studies.
We also analysed trends behind low stress careers and high stress careers rankings to align this guide with real-world conditions.
Not all stress is created equal. Some roles are stressful because of physical risk, others due to mental load or emotional exhaustion.
By clearly defining what stress looks like across roles, this stress job comparison gives you a practical tool to evaluate your current path or plot your next move.
Top 10 Most Stressful Jobs
Some careers come with built-in pressure. From life-or-death decisions to relentless deadlines, these roles consistently rank highest on stress scales.
Based on workload intensity, risk, emotional strain, and decision-making demands, here are the most stressful jobs today.
Each job includes its stress profile, median salary, and job outlook, giving you a full picture to aid your career decision.
1. Surgeon
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $229,300 per year (BLS) |
| Job Growth | 3% (slower than average) |
| Stress Triggers | High stakes, long hours, emergency calls, legal liability |
Surgeons face constant pressure. Lives are at stake with every decision, and any mistake can lead to severe consequences.
The mental and physical toll is extreme, especially in trauma and cardiac surgery.
2. Firefighter
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,680 per year |
| Job Growth | 4% |
| Stress Triggers | Physical danger, unpredictable emergencies, high burnout rate |
Firefighters work in life-threatening environments, often in dangerous conditions.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, stress-related illness is one of the leading causes of firefighter fatalities.
3. Commercial Pilot
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,910 per year |
| Job Growth | 6% |
| Stress Triggers | Responsibility for lives, long hours, strict safety compliance |
Commercial pilots are responsible for hundreds of lives on each flight. Tight schedules, rigorous training, and safety protocols heighten the stress.
4. Police Officer
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $69,160 per year |
| Job Growth | 3% |
| Stress Triggers | Public scrutiny, danger, emotional trauma |
Police work is unpredictable and emotionally demanding. Officers often work in high-crime areas and must make split-second decisions under pressure.
5. Event Coordinator
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $52,560 per year |
| Job Growth | 8% |
| Stress Triggers | Deadlines, client demands, logistics, multitasking |
Coordinating events means managing vendors, budgets, timelines, and expectations, all under pressure.
According to CareerCast, this role consistently appears in high stress career rankings due to constant coordination challenges.
6. News Reporter
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $55,960 per year |
| Job Growth | -3% (declining) |
| Stress Triggers | Tight deadlines, public scrutiny, unstable hours |
News reporters often work under constant deadlines, especially in breaking news. Public feedback and unpredictable hours raise stress levels further.
7. Air Traffic Controller
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $130,420 per year |
| Job Growth | 1% |
| Stress Triggers | Zero margin for error, real-time decisions, high concentration |
Air traffic controllers manage aircraft movement to avoid collisions. A single error could mean catastrophe, making it one of the most stressful jobs.
8. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $36,680 per year |
| Job Growth | 7% |
| Stress Triggers | Medical emergencies, emotional exposure, long shifts |
EMTs respond to critical situations daily. They often witness trauma firsthand and must perform life-saving care quickly.
9. Corporate Executive
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,680 per year |
| Job Growth | 6% |
| Stress Triggers | Decision pressure, long hours, business risk, public visibility |
C-level executives face high stress from managing large teams, making strategic decisions, and maintaining business health. The stakes are high, and accountability is constant.
10. Taxi or Ride-Share Driver
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $37,540 per year |
| Job Growth | 12% |
| Stress Triggers | Traffic, passenger behaviour, unpredictable earnings |
Driving for long hours in congested areas, dealing with customer behaviour, and managing fluctuating income can turn this job into a high-stress experience.
These high-stress careers may offer prestige or purpose, but they come at a cost. If you are in one of these roles and seeking more balance, the next section will explore top low-stress jobs worth considering.
Top 10 Least Stressful Jobs
While some roles are known for their intense pressure, others stand out for offering stability, autonomy, and manageable workloads.
These careers are often ideal for individuals who value work-life balance, predictable routines, and low emotional strain.
Based on stress job comparison data from sources like O*NET and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the top low-stress jobs across industries.
1. Librarian
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,660 per year |
| Job Growth | 6% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Calm environment, minimal deadlines, autonomous work |
Librarians manage collections, assist patrons, and help with research in quiet, structured settings. The job involves low conflict and high independence, making it one of the least stressful jobs.
2. Medical Records Technician
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,180 per year |
| Job Growth | 7% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Back-end role, no patient interaction, routine tasks |
This role focuses on data entry and record management, often in healthcare settings. With limited exposure to emergencies or high-stakes decisions, it ranks high in low stress careers.
3. University Professor (Tenured)
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,840 per year |
| Job Growth | 8% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Job security, flexible schedules, academic freedom |
Once tenure is secured, professors enjoy autonomy and consistent schedules. Teaching, mentoring, and research can be fulfilling without the stress of corporate deadlines.
4. Audiologist
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,680 per year |
| Job Growth | 10% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Low urgency, stable client base, quiet environment |
Audiologists diagnose and treat hearing issues, usually in clinics or private practices. Sessions are scheduled, and the pace is controlled and calm.
5. Dietitian
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,450 per year |
| Job Growth | 7% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Educational, client-focused, flexible work settings |
Dietitians help people improve their eating habits through personalised plans. The work is health-focused and generally free from crisis scenarios.
6. Jeweller
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $46,640 per year |
| Job Growth | Stable |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Creative, solitary work, minimal deadlines |
Jewellers spend time crafting or repairing pieces in quiet workshops. The work is hands-on, artistic, and largely self-directed.
7. Technical Writer
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $78,060 per year |
| Job Growth | 6% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Writing-based, minimal supervision, project-focused |
Technical writers create manuals and documentation. The role allows for concentration, little public interaction, and consistent schedules.
8. Actuary
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,990 per year |
| Job Growth | 21% (faster than average) |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Predictive work, data-based decisions, office environment |
Actuaries use maths and statistics to assess financial risk. The role is data-heavy, focused, and insulated from day-to-day business pressures.
9. Orthotist/Prosthetist
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,070 per year |
| Job Growth | 17% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Patient-focused, stable routine, meaningful impact |
These professionals design medical devices to support physical mobility. Their work is hands-on, with meaningful outcomes and few emergencies.
10. Massage Therapist
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,860 per year |
| Job Growth | 18% |
| Why It Is Low Stress | Calming environment, flexible hours, repeat clientele |
Massage therapy is centred around relaxation and physical care. With control over scheduling and client load, it remains one of the top low-stress jobs.
These least stressful jobs span healthcare, education, tech, and creative industries. They show that it is possible to earn a good income without constant tension or risk.
If you are in a high stress role and want more balance, these careers are a solid place to start exploring.
Stress vs Salary vs Growth: Job Comparison Table
To make smart career decisions, it is important to evaluate more than just job titles. Comparing stress levels alongside earning potential and job outlook helps you assess what roles offer the right mix of stability, satisfaction, and opportunity.
This comparison table ranks the most and least stressful jobs based on their average stress level, salary, and projected job growth.
It includes both high stress careers and top low-stress jobs, helping you weigh trade-offs based on what matters most to you.
Stress Job Comparison Table
| Job Title | Stress Level | Median Salary | Job Growth | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surgeon | Very High | $229,300 | 3% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Firefighter | Very High | $51,680 | 4% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Commercial Pilot | Very High | $103,910 | 6% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Police Officer | High | $69,160 | 3% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Event Coordinator | High | $52,560 | 8% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| News Reporter | High | $55,960 | -3% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Air Traffic Controller | Very High | $130,420 | 1% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| EMT | High | $36,680 | 7% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Corporate Executive | High | $107,680 | 6% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Taxi or Ride-Share Driver | High | $37,540 | 12% | Most Stressful Jobs |
| Librarian | Low | $61,660 | 6% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Medical Records Technician | Low | $47,180 | 7% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| University Professor (Tenured) | Low | $80,840 | 8% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Audiologist | Low | $82,680 | 10% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Dietitian | Low | $66,450 | 7% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Jeweller | Low | $46,640 | Stable | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Technical Writer | Low | $78,060 | 6% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Actuary | Low | $113,990 | 21% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Orthotist/Prosthetist | Low | $77,070 | 17% | Least Stressful Jobs |
| Massage Therapist | Low | $49,860 | 18% | Least Stressful Jobs |
What This Table Reveals
- Most stressful jobs tend to come with life-or-death responsibilities or public-facing pressure. While some pay well, they demand high emotional resilience and stamina.
- Least stressful jobs often offer flexibility, low risk, and structured environments. Some also provide strong salaries and job security, making them ideal low stress careers for professionals looking to pivot.
- High paying, low stress careers like actuary and technical writer offer the best of both worlds — financial stability without the burnout.
Why Some Jobs Are More Stressful Than Others
The most and least stressful jobs do not just differ in workload, they differ in the emotional, physical, and mental demands placed on professionals every day.
Understanding what makes a job stressful helps you identify whether a career is right for your temperament, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Here are the key stress factors that shape job pressure across industries.
High Public Exposure and Accountability
Jobs that place professionals under public scrutiny or require high-stakes decision-making tend to cause more stress.
Police officers, pilots, surgeons, and executives often face intense consequences if errors occur.
| Factor | Impact on Stress |
|---|---|
| Public Visibility | Criticism, reputation management, career risk |
| Decision Consequences | Lives, revenue, or legal outcomes may hinge on actions |
These roles also demand a high level of vigilance and are often tied to 24/7 responsibilities, leaving little room for mental rest.
Physical Danger and Environmental Risk
High stress careers like firefighting, law enforcement, and EMT work expose individuals to physical harm.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health lists emergency response work among the most dangerous in terms of injury and emotional trauma.
| Job Risk Examples | Common Stressors |
|---|---|
| Firefighters | Fire, structural collapse, hazardous materials |
| Police Officers | Weapons exposure, unpredictable confrontations |
| EMTs | Accident scenes, critical care decisions |
These jobs often require long shifts, irregular sleep, and rapid response times, which compound their stress levels.
Lack of Control and Unpredictability
Roles where workers have little control over their schedules or outcomes tend to be more stressful.
This includes air traffic controllers, news reporters, and ride-share drivers, who all face unpredictable workloads or client interactions.
| Low-Control Jobs | Stress Factors |
|---|---|
| News Reporter | Last-minute assignments, high-pressure deadlines |
| Air Traffic Controller | No margin for error, irregular hours |
| Ride-Share Driver | Income unpredictability, passenger behaviour |
In contrast, many low stress careers offer consistent routines and higher levels of autonomy.
Emotional Labour and Mental Load
Some careers require high levels of emotional engagement, empathy, or direct care. Over time, this can result in burnout, especially without strong support systems.
While some professionals thrive in emotionally charged environments, not everyone is suited for that intensity long term.
For many, switching to top low-stress jobs such as technical writing, medical records, or library services can lead to better mental health outcomes.
Understanding these triggers makes it easier to align your job with your stress tolerance. If you recognise patterns of stress in your current role, it may be time to explore careers that offer more stability and better work-life balance.
Tips to Manage Job Stress, No Matter What You Do
Whether you are in one of the most stressful jobs or simply feeling overwhelmed by workplace demands, managing job stress is essential for your performance, health, and happiness.
Even in high stress careers, applying a few simple techniques can improve how you cope and help prevent burnout.
This section offers practical advice that applies across industries, no matter your role.
Set Clear Work-Life Boundaries
Establishing limits on your time and availability is one of the most effective ways to reduce daily stress.
Many professionals in high stress jobs experience burnout because they never disconnect from work responsibilities.
| Strategy | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Block off non-working hours | Encourages rest and recovery |
| Disable notifications | Reduces constant interruptions and anxiety |
| Use time-blocking | Helps manage tasks more effectively |
Prioritise Physical and Mental Health
According to the American Psychological Association, people who engage in regular physical activity report 40 percent lower stress levels than sedentary workers.
Good nutrition, exercise, and sleep are the foundation for building stress resilience.
| Routine | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Exercise 3x per week | Boosts mood and energy levels |
| 7–8 hours of sleep | Improves focus and emotional control |
| Balanced diet | Supports mental clarity and stamina |
Incorporating mindfulness, journaling, or even a 10-minute walk during the day can also make a significant difference.
Use Company Resources and Support Systems
Do not wait for stress to reach a breaking point. Use the tools available to you through your workplace or seek professional support if needed.
| Support Option | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Talk to your manager | Adjust workload or clarify expectations |
| Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) | Access mental health or counselling services |
| Peer support groups | Reduce feelings of isolation and pressure |
If you are an entrepreneur or business owner without in-house support, services like Ask an Expert on Entrepreneurs.ng can connect you with experienced advisors to guide you through high-pressure decisions.
See also: Proven steps to start a successful business.
Re-evaluate Your Fit
If stress is constant and unmanageable, it may be a sign that your current role no longer aligns with your skills, interests, or goals.
Moving toward a low stress career can provide the balance and sustainability many professionals now prioritise.
Explore tools like the Entrepreneurs’ Success Blueprint to reassess your direction, build a solid action plan, and gain clarity about your next steps. It is a practical way to pivot without guesswork.
Learning to manage stress does not mean accepting burnout as the norm. Whether you are climbing the ladder in a high stress job or exploring top low-stress jobs for your next chapter, your wellbeing is non-negotiable.
How to Transition to a Lower-Stress Career
If your current role feels like a constant uphill battle, it may be time to consider a shift. Many professionals in high stress careers feel trapped by experience, salary, or routine.
But making a career move does not mean starting over. It means aligning your work with your lifestyle and wellbeing goals.
Here is how to make a smooth and strategic transition into one of the top low-stress jobs.
Identify Transferable Skills
Many skills developed in stressful roles are highly valuable in lower-stress environments.
Project management, communication, problem-solving, and time management are all transferable across industries.
| Skill | New Career Possibilities |
|---|---|
| Crisis Management | Healthcare administration, logistics, consulting |
| Writing and Documentation | Technical writing, editing, training development |
| Data Analysis | Actuary, research assistant, compliance roles |
| Customer Service | Account management, librarian, onboarding roles |
Take inventory of what you do well and explore how it can fit into less demanding career paths.
Upskill With a Purpose
You do not need another degree to pivot. Many low stress careers value certifications and practical skills over academic credentials. Focus on acquiring only what you need to qualify for your next step.
Explore affordable resources in the Entrepreneurs.ng Shop, including business tools, templates, and training that help you build confidence and credibility without wasting time.
| Certification/Training | Applies To |
|---|---|
| Google UX Design Certificate | Entry into tech, creative, or writing roles |
| Medical Coding Course | Medical records technician |
| Digital Writing Bootcamp | Technical writing, blogging, content roles |
| Financial Modelling Course | Business analysis, startup advisory |
Build a Plan, Not a Leap
A successful transition does not have to be sudden. Start part-time, freelance, or shadow someone in your desired role. Use weekends or evenings to test new waters.
If you want clarity on how to plan this move while managing current responsibilities, the Entrepreneurs’ Success Blueprint is a hands-on program that helps you create a structured path forward with proven guidance.
Position Yourself for Opportunities
Update your resume to reflect the language of your target industry. Emphasise accomplishments that show your ability to adapt, lead, or bring value. Highlight outcomes over job titles.
And if you offer a product or service that can benefit our entrepreneurial audience, consider using the Entrepreneurs.ng Advertising Package to get your message in front of engaged business leaders who value smart, stress-free solutions.
Transitioning into a low stress career is possible with the right mindset, tools, and support. You do not need to sacrifice your wellbeing for a paycheck.
Conclusion
Choosing between the most and least stressful jobs is more than a career decision; it is a lifestyle choice. While some roles come with unavoidable pressure, many offer stability, fulfilment, and peace of mind.
By comparing stress levels, salaries, and job outlooks, you can make informed moves that align with your goals. Whether you want to thrive in a high-impact field or step into a calmer path, the options are clear.
Use the tools and insights shared here to take control of your next step, one that supports both your ambitions and your wellbeing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most and least stressful jobs?
The most stressful jobs often involve high stakes, life-or-death decisions, public scrutiny, or unpredictable work conditions.
Examples include surgeon, air traffic controller, firefighter, commercial pilot, and police officer. Least stressful jobs usually offer routine, autonomy, and stability, such as librarian, technical writer, audiologist, and actuary.
Which job has the highest stress level?
Surgeon ranks near the top due to the constant pressure, long hours, and risk associated with critical decisions under tight deadlines. Other roles, like air traffic controller and firefighter, also register very high stress levels.
What jobs are considered low stress and high pay?
High-paying, low stress careers include actuary, audiologist, and data scientist, offering strong salaries, growth projections, and work-life balance.
Technical writer and librarian are also recognised as top low-stress jobs that offer meaningful work without the burnout.
How is job stress measured?
Stress is measured by analysing workload, public interaction, physical risk, unpredictability, emotional demands, and consequences of error. Credible sources include O*NET stress tolerance scores and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Can job stress lead to health problems?
Yes. Occupational stress is linked to cardiovascular disease, depression, insomnia, and musculoskeletal disorders. Long work hours and unmanaged stress can result in long-term health issues.
Is it possible to switch from a high stress career to a low stress one?
Absolutely. Many skills such as project management, data analysis, or client communication are transferable. A staged transition with targeted upskilling or certification can help you shift into a lower-stress role.
How do I know which stress level suits me?
Career fit varies by temperament and lifestyle. Introverts may prefer roles with less public interaction, like librarian or technical writer, while others thrive in intense fields like emergency services.
Self-assessment tools and career planning resources can help with clarity.
Do government jobs offer lower stress?
Many government roles such as administrative specialist, analyst, or librarian provide stability, predictable hours, and less intense performance pressure. These jobs are often considered among the least stressful.
Where can I get help for career transition and stress management?
Tools like the Entrepreneurs’ Success Blueprint offer structure for career pivots. If you seek expert advice on managing workplace challenges or job-related stress, consider speaking with a professional through services tailored for entrepreneurs.
