Are you feeling trapped in a high-stress job that’s draining your energy and joy? I’ve been there, and I know how soul-crushing it can be.
But here’s the good news – there are plenty of low-stress jobs that can provide both financial stability and peace of mind.
A few years ago, I made the leap from a demanding corporate role to a more relaxed career path. The transformation in my quality of life was astounding.
Now, I’m excited to share some of the best low-stress jobs that pay well, based on both research and personal experience.
So, let’s explore these fulfilling career paths that could lead you to a happier, more balanced life!
1. Craft Selling
Imagine turning your hobby into a profitable business. That’s exactly what craft selling allows you to do!
Whether you’re a whiz with a crochet hook or a master of woodworking, there’s a market for your unique creations.
One of the best platforms for selling handmade items is Etsy. With millions of active buyers, it’s a goldmine for crafters.
But don’t limit yourself – consider setting up your own website or attending local craft fairs to expand your reach.
The income potential for craft selling varies widely, but successful sellers can earn anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per month.
The key is finding your niche and creating products that stand out from the crowd.
To get started, focus on perfecting your craft and building a portfolio of your best work.
Take high-quality photos of your items and write compelling descriptions. Remember, presentation is everything in the world of online selling!
2. Blogging
Blogging has been my personal ticket to financial freedom, and I can’t recommend it enough! When I first started my blog, I had no idea it would turn into a full-time income.
But with dedication and the right strategies, it’s absolutely possible.
The best thing about blogging is that you can write about almost anything you’re passionate about. You can also do it all from the comfort of your own home.
In terms of earnings, successful bloggers can make anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $20,000 per month.
It takes time to build up to those higher figures, but the potential is there.
To be a blogger, choose a hosting platform like Hostinger and select a domain name that reflects your blog’s focus. Then, start creating content that provides value to your readers.
Some monetization strategies for blogs include:
- Display ads
- Affiliate marketing
- Sponsored content
- Selling digital products
- Consulting services
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Building a successful blog takes time, but the rewards can be incredible.
3. Freelancing/Virtual Assistant
As someone who’s been in the freelancing game for years, I can tell you it’s one of the most flexible and potentially lucrative low-stress jobs out there.
Whether you’re a writer or designer or have administrative skills, there’s likely a freelance opportunity for you.
Virtual assistance, in particular, has seen a boom in recent years.
As a VA, you might handle tasks like email management, social media scheduling, or customer service for clients. You can work from anywhere with an internet connection.
To get started in freelancing or virtual assistance the same way I did, do the following:
- Identify your skills and the services you want to offer.
- Create a portfolio showcasing your best work.
- Set up profiles on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
- Network and reach out to potential clients.
In terms of earnings, freelancers can make anywhere from $20 to $100+ per hour, depending on skills and experience.
As a virtual assistant, you might start around $15-$20 per hour, but with specialized skills, you could earn $50 or more per hour.
4. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is another great way to earn passive income with relatively low stress.
Essentially, you promote other people’s products and earn a commission on each sale made through your unique affiliate link.
The beauty of affiliate marketing is that you don’t need to create your own products or handle customer service.
Your main job is to connect your audience with products or services that can benefit them.
To be an affiliate marketer:
- Choose a niche you’re passionate about.
- Build a platform (WordPress blog, YouTube channel, or social media presence).
- Create valuable content that naturally incorporates affiliate products, like product reviews or buyer’s guides.
- Disclose your affiliate relationships to maintain trust with your audience.
Income potential in affiliate marketing varies widely, but successful marketers can make $100 to $10,000+ per month.
It’s important to note that building a significant income through affiliate marketing takes time and consistent effort.
Some popular affiliate programs to consider include Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and ClickBank.
5. Occupational Therapists
If you’re looking for a low-stress job that allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives, consider becoming an occupational therapist.
This rewarding career involves helping people overcome physical, mental, and emotional challenges to increase their independence in daily life.
As an occupational therapist, you might work in various settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Private practices
- Rehabilitation centers
The average salary for occupational therapists is around $86,000 per year, making it a well-paying option among low-stress careers.
Plus, the job outlook is excellent, with the field expected to grow 16% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
To become an occupational therapist, you’ll need to:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree (preferably in a related field).
- Earn a master’s degree in occupational therapy.
- Pass the NBCOT.
- Obtain license to practice in your state.
While the educational requirements are more extensive than some other options on this list, many occupational therapists find their work deeply satisfying and relatively low-stress.
6. Virtual Teachers
The digital age has revolutionized education, opening up exciting opportunities for those who love to teach but crave flexibility.
Virtual teaching allows you to share your knowledge from the comfort of your own home, connecting with students across the globe.
One of the most popular platforms for teaching English online is VIPKid.
They offer competitive pay, ranging from $14-$22 per hour, and you don’t even need a degree in teaching or English.
All you need is a bachelor’s degree in any field and a passion for helping others learn.
But English isn’t the only subject in demand.
Platforms like Outschool allow you to teach virtually any subject you’re passionate about, from creative writing to coding. You also set your own rates and schedule.
To excel as a virtual teacher, invest in a good-quality webcam and microphone.
Create an engaging virtual classroom space, and don’t be afraid to use props or visual aids to make your lessons more interactive.
7. Librarians
If you’re a book lover seeking tranquility in your work life, becoming a librarian might be your perfect career path.
Contrary to popular belief, modern librarians do much more than shelve books and shush noisy patrons.
Today’s librarians are information specialists, helping patrons navigate the vast world of digital and print resources.
They organize events, manage databases, and even dabble in technology instruction. It’s a career that combines a love for learning with community service.
The median annual wage for librarians is around $59,500, with the top 10% earning more than $94,520.
While many positions require a master’s degree in library science, some libraries hire library technicians with just a high school diploma or associate’s degree.
To thrive in this field, cultivate your research skills and stay up-to-date with the latest information technologies.
Develop your interpersonal skills too – you’ll be interacting with a diverse range of patrons daily.
8. Museum Jobs
Museum jobs offer a serene environment perfect for those seeking low-stress careers.
As a museum assistant or gallery attendant, your main tasks would include monitoring exhibition spaces, assisting visitors, and ensuring the safekeeping of exhibits.
These positions typically require just a high school diploma and a passion for the subject matter.
For those with more specialized knowledge, curator positions offer higher pay and more responsibilities.
Curators earn a median annual wage of $55,350, with top earners making over $94,330.
These roles require a degree in a related field, such as art history, archaeology, or museum studies.
To break into the museum world, consider volunteering or interning at local museums. This will give you valuable experience and help you build a network in the field.
9. Career Coaching
As a career coach, you’ll guide clients through their professional journeys, helping them identify their strengths, set goals, and navigate career transitions.
It’s a role that combines psychology, mentoring, and strategic planning.
The income potential for career coaches is impressive. According to the International Coach Federation, the average annual income ranges from $27,100 to $73,100.
Some experienced coaches even earn over $100,000 per year.
To become a career coach, you should consider obtaining a certification from a reputable organization like the International Coach Federation.
Build your experience by offering pro bono sessions to friends or family.
Then, start marketing your services through social media and professional networking sites like LinkedIn.
10. Podcasting
With over 2 million active podcasts worldwide, there’s clearly an appetite for audio content on every topic imaginable.
Starting a podcast is quite simple.
All you need is a good quality microphone, editing software like Audacity (which is free!), and a hosting platform such as Buzzsprout or Libsyn.
The real challenge – and fun – lies in creating engaging content that keeps listeners coming back for more.
While earnings can vary widely, successful podcasters usually make money through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and listener donations.
Popular finance podcast “Afford Anything” reportedly earns over $25,000 per month through a combination of these methods.
To make your podcast stand out:
- Choose a specific niche you’re passionate about.
- Invest time in planning and scripting your episodes.
- Be consistent with your publishing schedule.
- Engage with your audience through social media and your website.
Focus on creating value for your listeners, and the monetization opportunities will follow.
11. Start an Ecommerce Busines
If you want to have your own business without the stress of managing a physical store, starting an E-commerce business is a low-stress, high-reward career for you.
With platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, setting up an online store has never been easier.
You can sell anything from handmade crafts to drop-shipped products, all while working from the comfort of your home.
Start by identifying unique products you can offer that people want. Then, focus on creating clear product descriptions and high-quality images.
Don’t forget to leverage digital marketing strategies like social media ads and email marketing to drive traffic and sales.
12. Freelance Writer
Freelance writing is one of the most rewarding and flexible careers out there.
In my experience, building a strong portfolio when starting out is crucial. When I first started, I wrote a few articles on topics I loved and published them on Medium.
This gave me samples to show potential clients and helped me land my first paid gigs on Upwork and Freelancer.com.
As for earnings, they can vary widely. When I started, I was making about $0.05 per word. Now, with years of experience under my belt, I often charge $0.50 per word or more for specialized content.
Some successful freelance writers earn over $100,000 per year.
Note that persistence is essential in this field. Don’t get discouraged by rejections, as they happen to everyone.
Keep honing your writing skills, meet your deadlines, and always strive to deliver your best work.
Before you know it, you might find yourself with a thriving writing career, just like I did.
13. Curator
A career as a curator is a dream job of art enthusiasts, history buffs, and science lovers.
Curators are the masterminds behind museum exhibits, responsible for acquiring, caring for, and presenting collections.
While this role often requires a master’s degree in a relevant field like art history or museum studies, many find it to be a fulfilling and relatively low-stress career.
The average salary for curators is around $55,000, with top earners making over $94,000 annually.
As a curator, you’ll spend your days researching, planning exhibitions, and working with other museum professionals.
You might also engage in public speaking, write articles, or participate in fundraising efforts. It’s a role that combines creativity with academic rigor.
To break into this field, consider interning at local museums or galleries.
Build a network in the art or history community, and stay up-to-date with current trends in museum curation.
Aside from being a curator, there are other gigs you can take if you are an art buff. Check out our list of best side hustle ideas for artists for more options!
14. Massage Therapist
Want a career where you help people relax and feel better every day? That’s the life of a massage therapist.
In this profession, you’ll use your hands to ease muscle tension, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being in your clients.
Becoming a massage therapist typically requires completing a certification program and obtaining a license.
Programs usually take several months to a year to complete and cover topics like anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
The earning potential for massage therapists is quite high, with the average salary around $57,000 per year.
Some experienced therapists in high-end spas or with their own practices can earn significantly more.
One of the best aspects of this career is the calm, relaxing environment. Many therapists report feeling zen-like after giving massages.
Plus, you have the flexibility to work in various settings – from luxury spas to medical offices, or even start your own practice.
Pro Tip: To get more clients, develop strong communication skills and a soothing demeanor.
Also, stay updated on new massage techniques and consider specializing in areas like sports massage or prenatal massage to increase your earning potential.
15. Technical Writer
I personally spent years in the technical writing field, and I can confidently say it’s one of the most rewarding and low-stress careers I’ve encountered.
Technical writers are the unsung heroes of the tech world. We take complicated information and transform it into user-friendly documentation.
From user manuals to API documentation, our work touches nearly every aspect of modern technology.
But what I like about this career is the stability.
The average salary for technical writers is around $72,000 per year, with some making over $100,000.
Plus, the demand for skilled technical writers is constantly growing as technology evolves.
To excel in this field, you’ll need strong writing skills and the ability to understand complex technical concepts.
A background in IT or science can be helpful, but it’s not always necessary. What’s crucial is your ability to learn quickly and explain things clearly.
I’ve found that the key to success in technical writing is to always put yourself in the user’s shoes.
Ask yourself, “How would I explain this to someone who’s never seen this before?” This approach has served me well throughout my career.
16. Flipping
Have you ever considered turning your passion for thrift shopping into a profitable career? Then you’ll enjoy flipping!
This low-stress job involves buying items at a low price and reselling them for a profit. Though flipping, it’s possible to make anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 a month.
The cool part? You can start with just a small investment and grow your business over time.
To get started, focus on items you’re knowledgeable about. This could be anything from vintage clothing to electronics.
Websites like eBay and Facebook Marketplace are great platforms for selling your finds.
Pro Tip: Always research an item’s potential resale value before buying. This can help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your profits.
With practice, you’ll develop an eye for spotting valuable items that others might overlook.
17. Dietitian
Dietitians are nutrition experts who help people make informed food choices to improve their health.
The average annual salary for dietitians is around $61,000, with top earners making over $85,000. Plus, the job outlook is excellent, with employment expected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029.
To become a dietitian, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition, or a related field.
Many states also require licensure. While this might seem like a lot of preparation, the rewards are worth it.
As a dietitian, you could work in various settings, from hospitals to private practice.
You might create meal plans for patients, conduct nutrition research, or even work with food companies to develop healthier products.
One of the most satisfying aspects of this career is seeing the positive impact you can have on people’s lives.
By helping clients develop healthier eating habits, you’re contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
18. Tax Preparer
If you have a head for numbers and enjoy helping people navigate complex systems, becoming a tax preparer could be your calling.
This career offers both problem-solving and customer service, with the added bonus of being relatively low-stress.
Tax preparers typically earn around $46,000 per year, but experienced professionals can make significantly more.
Plus, there’s always demand for skilled tax preparers, especially during tax season.
Many tax preparers work seasonally, allowing for extended time off during the rest of the year. And with the rise of online tax preparation services, you can even work from home.
To be a tax preparer, consider taking a tax preparation course.
The TaxBiz Course is highly recommended, and it offers comprehensive training on how to start and run a successful tax business.
Also, keep in mind that attention to detail is crucial in this field. You also need to stay up-to-date with tax laws and regulations and always double-check your work.
19. Yoga Instructor
Namaste! Those who are looking for a career that nourishes both body and soul should consider becoming a yoga instructor.
This low-stress job lets you share your passion for wellness while helping others improve their physical and mental health.
Yoga instructors can earn anywhere from $30,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on their location, experience, and whether they run their own studio.
Many instructors supplement their income by offering private sessions or specialized workshops.
To become a yoga instructor, you’ll need to complete a yoga teacher training program.
These typically range from 200 to 500 hours and cover topics like anatomy, yoga philosophy, and teaching techniques.
One of the best things about this career is the positive impact you can have on your students’ lives.
From reducing stress to improving flexibility, the benefits of yoga are numerous. As an instructor, you’ll be helping people on their wellness journey every day.
20. Proofreader
Proofreading is another low-stress job you should not be sleeping on.
When I first started out as a proofreader, I was actually shocked that I could monetize my love for language and attention to detail.
Proofreaders can earn $30,000 to $60,000 per year, with freelancers often earning even more. This job can also be done from anywhere as long as there’s an internet connection.
How to get started? You’ll need a keen eye for detail and a solid grasp of grammar and punctuation.
I suggest taking a proofreading course to sharpen your skills. Caitlin Pyle’s Proofread Anywhere course is an excellent resource that I personally found very helpful.
Pro Tip: Read everything. Books, magazines, websites – the more you read, the better you’ll become at spotting errors.
And don’t be afraid to specialize. Whether it’s academic papers or marketing copy, finding your niche can help you command higher rates.
21. Selling Art Prints on Etsy
For the artistically inclined, selling art prints on Etsy can be another low-stress way to earn money.
Etsy provides a platform for artists to reach a global audience, all from the comfort of their own homes.
The earning potential on Etsy varies widely, but successful sellers can make anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month.
The starting point is to create unique, high-quality prints that stand out in a crowded marketplace.
To do this, you’ll need to create your artwork and digitize it.
Tools like Canva can be incredibly helpful for creating and formatting your designs. In fact, there are many other ways to earn money using Canva.
Once you have your prints ready, set up an Etsy shop and start listing your products.
Pay attention to your product descriptions and tags. Use keywords that potential customers might search for to help your prints get discovered.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on a low-stress career doesn’t mean settling for less. It’s about prioritizing your well-being while still pursuing professional success.
Note that what’s low-stress for one person might be anxiety-inducing for another. It’s crucial to assess your own skills, interests, and personality when choosing a career path.
Since switching to a lower-stress job, I’ve rediscovered my passion for work, improved my relationships, and found time for hobbies I’d long neglected.
I wish this for you, too.
If you’ve discovered low-stress side gigs in your journey, please do share it in the comments below. You may also react or leave your thoughts on this article.
