Nurse practitioner has been named the best job in healthcare for 2024 by U.S. News & World Report, followed closely by physician assistant and speech-language pathologist.
Nurse practitioner was also named the best job in the U.S. across any employment sector in 2024, with the publication citing its high median salary and predicted "explosive" job growth between 2022 and 2032.
U.S. News compiled the list using information on each job's future prospects, wage potential, employment, job safety and stability, and work-life balance. Read more about the methodology here.
The top 26 jobs in healthcare in 2024 and their median salary:
1. Nurse practitioner — $121,610 median salary
2. Physician assistant — $126,010
3. Speech-language pathologist — $84,140
4. Occupational therapist — $93,180
5. Veterinarian — $103,260
6. Nurse anesthetist — $203,090
7. Physical therapist — $97,720
8. Oral and maxillofacial surgeon — $239,200
9. Psychiatrist — $226,880
10. Registered nurse — $81,220
11. Optometrist — $125,590
12. Respiratory therapist — $70,540
13. Anesthesiologist — $239,200
14. Obstetrician and gynecologist — $239,200
15. Pharmacist — $132,750
16. Dietitian and nutritionist — $66,450
17. Dentist — $155,040
18. Orthodontist — $174,360
19. Podiatrist — $148,720
20. Audiologist — $82,680
21. Nurse midwife — $120,880
22. Pediatrician — $190,350
23. Chiropractor — $75,380
24. Radiation therapist — $89,530
25. Esthetician and skincare specialist — $38,060
26. Rehabilitation counselor — $39,990