Highest-paying jobs in Lansing
Written by:
April 12, 2021
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Highest-paying jobs in Lansing
Stacker collected information on the highest-paying jobs in Lansing-East Lansing, MI, using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are ranked by average annual salary with information up to date as of May 2020. Job descriptions are from O*NET.
In Lansing, the annual mean wage is $54,800 or 2.7% lower than national mean of $56,310, while the highest-paying occupation makes $245,110. Read on to see which jobs make the list.

1 / 50
Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#50. Database administrators and architects
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $86,890
- #133 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 110
National
- Annual mean salary: $101,090
- Employment: 133,630
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($143,340)
--- Trenton, NJ ($126,540)
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($120,430)
- Job description: Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.
- Annual mean salary: $86,890
- #133 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 110
National
- Annual mean salary: $101,090
- Employment: 133,630
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($143,340)
--- Trenton, NJ ($126,540)
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($120,430)
- Job description: Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.

2 / 50
Rawpixel.com //Shutterstock
#49. Web developers and digital interface designers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $86,960
- #20 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 120
National
- Annual mean salary: $85,490
- Employment: 156,220
- Entry level education requirements: Associate’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($138,070)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($113,910)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($112,440)
- Job description: Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
- Annual mean salary: $86,960
- #20 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 120
National
- Annual mean salary: $85,490
- Employment: 156,220
- Entry level education requirements: Associate’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($138,070)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($113,910)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($112,440)
- Job description: Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.

3 / 50
Canva
#48. Elevator and escalator installers and repairers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $89,090
- #17 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $86,200
- Employment: 24,730
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH ($109,710)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($105,080)
--- Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI ($101,990)
- Job description: Assemble, install, repair, or maintain electric or hydraulic freight or passenger elevators, escalators, or dumbwaiters.
- Annual mean salary: $89,090
- #17 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $86,200
- Employment: 24,730
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH ($109,710)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($105,080)
--- Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI ($101,990)
- Job description: Assemble, install, repair, or maintain electric or hydraulic freight or passenger elevators, escalators, or dumbwaiters.
4 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#47. Industrial engineers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $89,880
- #139 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 640
National
- Annual mean salary: $93,610
- Employment: 290,190
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Billings, MT ($125,760)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($123,710)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($123,510)
- Job description: Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality control, inventory control, logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and production coordination.
- Annual mean salary: $89,880
- #139 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 640
National
- Annual mean salary: $93,610
- Employment: 290,190
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Billings, MT ($125,760)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($123,710)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($123,510)
- Job description: Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality control, inventory control, logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and production coordination.

5 / 50
Geraldshields11 // Wikimedia Commons
#46. Labor relations specialists
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $90,090
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 440
National
- Annual mean salary: $74,870
- Employment: 70,050
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($113,270)
--- Spartanburg, SC ($111,380)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($103,990)
- Job description: Resolve disputes between workers and managers, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, or coordinate grievance procedures to handle employee complaints.
- Annual mean salary: $90,090
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 440
National
- Annual mean salary: $74,870
- Employment: 70,050
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($113,270)
--- Spartanburg, SC ($111,380)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($103,990)
- Job description: Resolve disputes between workers and managers, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, or coordinate grievance procedures to handle employee complaints.
6 / 50
BDUK fibre // flickr
#45. Electronics engineers, except computer
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $90,110
- #149 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $112,320
- Employment: 122,320
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($148,210)
--- Austin-Round Rock, TX ($134,110)
--- Idaho Falls, ID ($131,740)
- Job description: Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.
- Annual mean salary: $90,110
- #149 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $112,320
- Employment: 122,320
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($148,210)
--- Austin-Round Rock, TX ($134,110)
--- Idaho Falls, ID ($131,740)
- Job description: Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.
7 / 50
Canva
#44. Electrical engineers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $90,450
- #215 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $105,990
- Employment: 185,220
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($150,480)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($130,150)
--- Idaho Falls, ID ($125,700)
- Job description: Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
- Annual mean salary: $90,450
- #215 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $105,990
- Employment: 185,220
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($150,480)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($130,150)
--- Idaho Falls, ID ($125,700)
- Job description: Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
8 / 50
Canva
#43. Mechanical engineers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $91,100
- #135 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 540
National
- Annual mean salary: $95,560
- Employment: 293,960
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($125,760)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($124,190)
--- Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($123,700)
- Job description: Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
- Annual mean salary: $91,100
- #135 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 540
National
- Annual mean salary: $95,560
- Employment: 293,960
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($125,760)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($124,190)
--- Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($123,700)
- Job description: Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
9 / 50
PR Image Factory // Shutterstock
#42. Operations research analysts
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $92,840
- #43 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 60
National
- Annual mean salary: $92,280
- Employment: 96,220
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($146,830)
--- Salinas, CA ($124,950)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($123,370)
- Job description: Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.
- Annual mean salary: $92,840
- #43 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 60
National
- Annual mean salary: $92,280
- Employment: 96,220
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($146,830)
--- Salinas, CA ($124,950)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($123,370)
- Job description: Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.

10 / 50
Petekub // Shutterstock
#41. Economists
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $93,180
- #33 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 60
National
- Annual mean salary: $120,880
- Employment: 17,520
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($153,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,980)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($142,580)
- Job description: Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
- Annual mean salary: $93,180
- #33 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 60
National
- Annual mean salary: $120,880
- Employment: 17,520
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($153,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,980)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($142,580)
- Job description: Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
11 / 50
Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#40. Architects, except landscape and naval
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $94,330
- #31 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $89,470
- Employment: 103,900
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($114,930)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($113,510)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($112,110)
- Job description: Plan and design structures, such as private residences, office buildings, theaters, factories, and other structural property.
- Annual mean salary: $94,330
- #31 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $89,470
- Employment: 103,900
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($114,930)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($113,510)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($112,110)
- Job description: Plan and design structures, such as private residences, office buildings, theaters, factories, and other structural property.
12 / 50
Canva
#39. First-line supervisors of police and detectives
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $94,690
- #121 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 140
National
- Annual mean salary: $97,180
- Employment: 122,310
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($200,090)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($182,810)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($182,720)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate activities of members of police force.
- Annual mean salary: $94,690
- #121 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 140
National
- Annual mean salary: $97,180
- Employment: 122,310
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($200,090)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($182,810)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($182,720)
- Job description: Directly supervise and coordinate activities of members of police force.
13 / 50
David Bibo // Wikimedia Commons
#38. Education administrators, kindergarten through secondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $96,830
- #148 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 400
National
- Annual mean salary: $103,010
- Employment: 262,480
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Modesto, CA ($154,970)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($146,070)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($145,590)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of kindergarten, elementary, or secondary schools.
- Annual mean salary: $96,830
- #148 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 400
National
- Annual mean salary: $103,010
- Employment: 262,480
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Modesto, CA ($154,970)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($146,070)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($145,590)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the academic, administrative, or auxiliary activities of kindergarten, elementary, or secondary schools.

14 / 50
Luisa Leal Photography // Shutterstock
#37. Electrical power-line installers and repairers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $99,250
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $74,410
- Employment: 114,930
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($114,820)
--- Redding, CA ($112,850)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($111,810)
- Job description: Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.
- Annual mean salary: $99,250
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $74,410
- Employment: 114,930
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($114,820)
--- Redding, CA ($112,850)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($111,810)
- Job description: Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.

15 / 50
rawpixel.com // Shutterstock
#36. Purchasing managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $99,360
- #178 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $132,660
- Employment: 70,960
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($181,240)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,300)
--- Morgantown, WV ($167,740)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services. Includes wholesale or retail trade merchandising managers and procurement managers.
- Annual mean salary: $99,360
- #178 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $132,660
- Employment: 70,960
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($181,240)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,300)
--- Morgantown, WV ($167,740)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services. Includes wholesale or retail trade merchandising managers and procurement managers.
16 / 50
Financial Times // Wikimedia Commons
#35. Personal financial advisors
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $99,390
- #169 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 220
National
- Annual mean salary: $122,490
- Employment: 218,050
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Gainesville, FL ($206,120)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($169,850)
--- Tyler, TX ($169,690)
- Job description: Advise clients on financial plans using knowledge of tax and investment strategies, securities, insurance, pension plans, and real estate. Duties include assessing clients' assets, liabilities, cash flow, insurance coverage, tax status, and financial objectives. May also buy and sell financial assets for clients.
- Annual mean salary: $99,390
- #169 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 220
National
- Annual mean salary: $122,490
- Employment: 218,050
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Gainesville, FL ($206,120)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($169,850)
--- Tyler, TX ($169,690)
- Job description: Advise clients on financial plans using knowledge of tax and investment strategies, securities, insurance, pension plans, and real estate. Duties include assessing clients' assets, liabilities, cash flow, insurance coverage, tax status, and financial objectives. May also buy and sell financial assets for clients.
17 / 50
NTNU // Flickr
#34. Natural sciences managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $101,680
- #119 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 200
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,930
- Employment: 75,870
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($221,460)
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($214,020)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($205,120)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
- Annual mean salary: $101,680
- #119 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 200
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,930
- Employment: 75,870
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($221,460)
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($214,020)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($205,120)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
18 / 50
IBM Research // Flickr
#33. Computer network architects
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $102,710
- #119 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $119,230
- Employment: 159,350
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($161,950)
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($152,060)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,250)
- Job description: Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
- Annual mean salary: $102,710
- #119 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $119,230
- Employment: 159,350
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($161,950)
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($152,060)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,250)
- Job description: Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.

19 / 50
Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#32. Biological science teachers, postsecondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $105,850
- #23 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 250
National
- Annual mean salary: $101,320
- Employment: 51,500
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR ($195,730)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($161,980)
--- Salt Lake City, UT ($147,290)
- Job description: Teach courses in biological sciences. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $105,850
- #23 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 250
National
- Annual mean salary: $101,320
- Employment: 51,500
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR ($195,730)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($161,980)
--- Salt Lake City, UT ($147,290)
- Job description: Teach courses in biological sciences. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
20 / 50
Austin Community College // Flickr
#31. Veterinarians
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $106,730
- #107 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $108,350
- Employment: 73,710
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($169,220)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($150,370)
--- Akron, OH ($150,330)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
- Annual mean salary: $106,730
- #107 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $108,350
- Employment: 73,710
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($169,220)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($150,370)
--- Akron, OH ($150,330)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.

21 / 50
Sunshine Seeds // Shutterstock
#30. Industrial production managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $108,530
- #219 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 280
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,190
- Employment: 179,570
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New Orleans-Metairie, LA ($171,890)
--- Florence, SC ($167,660)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($155,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
- Annual mean salary: $108,530
- #219 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 280
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,190
- Employment: 179,570
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New Orleans-Metairie, LA ($171,890)
--- Florence, SC ($167,660)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($155,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
22 / 50
Canva
#29. Environmental engineers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $108,610
- #21 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 110
National
- Annual mean salary: $96,890
- Employment: 50,260
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($128,000)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($124,210)
--- Baton Rouge, LA ($114,890)
- Job description: Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.
- Annual mean salary: $108,610
- #21 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 110
National
- Annual mean salary: $96,890
- Employment: 50,260
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($128,000)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($124,210)
--- Baton Rouge, LA ($114,890)
- Job description: Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.

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Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#28. Nurse practitioners
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $109,990
- #193 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $114,510
- Employment: 211,280
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($188,070)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($177,800)
--- Salinas, CA ($155,310)
- Job description: Diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
- Annual mean salary: $109,990
- #193 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $114,510
- Employment: 211,280
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($188,070)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($177,800)
--- Salinas, CA ($155,310)
- Job description: Diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.

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Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock
#27. Computer science teachers, postsecondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $111,960
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $98,680
- Employment: 32,230
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($153,430)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($150,480)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($143,650)
- Job description: Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $111,960
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $98,680
- Employment: 32,230
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($153,430)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($150,480)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($143,650)
- Job description: Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

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Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#26. Human resources managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $113,120
- #160 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,580
- Employment: 156,600
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($194,040)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($183,890)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($179,870)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
- Annual mean salary: $113,120
- #160 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,580
- Employment: 156,600
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($194,040)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($183,890)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($179,870)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
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USACE NY // Flickr
#25. Construction managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $113,480
- #60 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 260
National
- Annual mean salary: $107,260
- Employment: 285,640
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Napa, CA ($161,780)
--- Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ ($154,800)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($153,490)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate, usually through subordinate supervisory personnel, activities concerned with the construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, and systems. Participate in the conceptual development of a construction project and oversee its organization, scheduling, budgeting, and implementation. Includes managers in specialized construction fields, such as carpentry or plumbing.
- Annual mean salary: $113,480
- #60 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 260
National
- Annual mean salary: $107,260
- Employment: 285,640
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Napa, CA ($161,780)
--- Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ ($154,800)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($153,490)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate, usually through subordinate supervisory personnel, activities concerned with the construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, and systems. Participate in the conceptual development of a construction project and oversee its organization, scheduling, budgeting, and implementation. Includes managers in specialized construction fields, such as carpentry or plumbing.
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TopRank Online Marketing // Flickr
#24. Marketing managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $114,020
- #189 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 140
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,470
- Employment: 270,200
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($213,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($211,210)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($196,260)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
- Annual mean salary: $114,020
- #189 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 140
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,470
- Employment: 270,200
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($213,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($211,210)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($196,260)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
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Almonroth // Wikimedia Commons
#23. Computer and information systems managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $114,050
- #263 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 770
National
- Annual mean salary: $161,730
- Employment: 457,290
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($235,040)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($212,480)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($201,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
- Annual mean salary: $114,050
- #263 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 770
National
- Annual mean salary: $161,730
- Employment: 457,290
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($235,040)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($212,480)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($201,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
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Pixabay
#22. Architectural and engineering managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $115,560
- #264 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 290
National
- Annual mean salary: $158,100
- Employment: 195,900
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($226,920)
--- Amarillo, TX ($199,940)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($198,610)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.
- Annual mean salary: $115,560
- #264 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 290
National
- Annual mean salary: $158,100
- Employment: 195,900
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($226,920)
--- Amarillo, TX ($199,940)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($198,610)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.

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Worawee Meepian // Shutterstock
#21. Administrative law judges, adjudicators, and hearing officers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $115,960
- #22 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 130
National
- Annual mean salary: $102,050
- Employment: 14,570
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($145,340)
--- Kansas City, MO-KS ($139,930)
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($139,150)
- Job description: Conduct hearings to recommend or make decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters. Determine liability, sanctions, or penalties, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims or settlements.
- Annual mean salary: $115,960
- #22 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 130
National
- Annual mean salary: $102,050
- Employment: 14,570
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($145,340)
--- Kansas City, MO-KS ($139,930)
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($139,150)
- Job description: Conduct hearings to recommend or make decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters. Determine liability, sanctions, or penalties, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims or settlements.
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Ohiodominican // Wikimedia Commons
#20. Physician assistants
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $116,340
- #123 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 200
National
- Annual mean salary: $116,080
- Employment: 125,280
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Salinas, CA ($168,220)
--- Waterbury, CT ($165,230)
--- Portsmouth, NH-ME ($158,020)
- Job description: Provide healthcare services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician. Conduct complete physicals, provide treatment, and counsel patients. May, in some cases, prescribe medication. Must graduate from an accredited educational program for physician assistants.
- Annual mean salary: $116,340
- #123 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 200
National
- Annual mean salary: $116,080
- Employment: 125,280
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Salinas, CA ($168,220)
--- Waterbury, CT ($165,230)
--- Portsmouth, NH-ME ($158,020)
- Job description: Provide healthcare services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician. Conduct complete physicals, provide treatment, and counsel patients. May, in some cases, prescribe medication. Must graduate from an accredited educational program for physician assistants.

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Canva
#19. Health specialties teachers, postsecondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $116,610
- #27 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $124,890
- Employment: 200,040
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT ($211,500)
--- Jackson, MS ($195,830)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($176,930)
- Job description: Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.
- Annual mean salary: $116,610
- #27 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $124,890
- Employment: 200,040
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT ($211,500)
--- Jackson, MS ($195,830)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($176,930)
- Job description: Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.

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Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#18. Medical and health services managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $117,300
- #117 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 550
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,800
- Employment: 402,540
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($174,010)
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($171,430)
--- Madera, CA ($168,090)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
- Annual mean salary: $117,300
- #117 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 550
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,800
- Employment: 402,540
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($174,010)
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($171,430)
--- Madera, CA ($168,090)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
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Pixabay
#17. General and operations managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $117,430
- #116 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,110
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,740
- Employment: 2,347,420
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($183,170)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($175,990)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,370)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
- Annual mean salary: $117,430
- #116 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,110
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,740
- Employment: 2,347,420
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($183,170)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($175,990)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,370)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
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Rappaport Center // Wikimedia Commons
#16. Lawyers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $118,980
- #136 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,050
National
- Annual mean salary: $148,910
- Employment: 658,120
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($231,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($201,920)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($186,070)
- Job description: Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
- Annual mean salary: $118,980
- #136 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,050
National
- Annual mean salary: $148,910
- Employment: 658,120
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($231,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($201,920)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($186,070)
- Job description: Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
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NNSA // Flickr
#15. Law teachers, postsecondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $119,700
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 240
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,760
- Employment: 14,930
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN ($190,320)
--- Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA ($180,020)
--- Tallahassee, FL ($164,590)
- Job description: Teach courses in law. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $119,700
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 240
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,760
- Employment: 14,930
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN ($190,320)
--- Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA ($180,020)
--- Tallahassee, FL ($164,590)
- Job description: Teach courses in law. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

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Canva
#14. Financial managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $122,250
- #194 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 820
National
- Annual mean salary: $151,510
- Employment: 653,080
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($214,670)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($210,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($192,310)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
- Annual mean salary: $122,250
- #194 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 820
National
- Annual mean salary: $151,510
- Employment: 653,080
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($214,670)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($210,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($192,310)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
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Grace Nichols // U.S. Air Force
#13. Pharmacists
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $123,500
- #222 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 290
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,460
- Employment: 315,470
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Madera, CA ($165,350)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($162,540)
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($161,120)
- Job description: Dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners and provide information to patients about medications and their use. May advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications.
- Annual mean salary: $123,500
- #222 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 290
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,460
- Employment: 315,470
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Madera, CA ($165,350)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($162,540)
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($161,120)
- Job description: Dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners and provide information to patients about medications and their use. May advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications.

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Canva
#12. Sales managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $127,220
- #173 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 260
National
- Annual mean salary: $147,580
- Employment: 390,170
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($207,070)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($202,700)
--- Trenton, NJ ($186,960)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the actual distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer. Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals and establish training programs for sales representatives. Analyze sales statistics gathered by staff to determine sales potential and inventory requirements and monitor the preferences of customers.
- Annual mean salary: $127,220
- #173 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 260
National
- Annual mean salary: $147,580
- Employment: 390,170
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($207,070)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($202,700)
--- Trenton, NJ ($186,960)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the actual distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer. Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals and establish training programs for sales representatives. Analyze sales statistics gathered by staff to determine sales potential and inventory requirements and monitor the preferences of customers.

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Kzenon // Shutterstock
#11. Optometrists
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $129,260
- #61 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,440
- Employment: 36,690
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Columbia, SC ($228,340)
--- New Haven, CT ($186,950)
--- Evansville, IN-KY ($182,980)
- Job description: Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
- Annual mean salary: $129,260
- #61 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 70
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,440
- Employment: 36,690
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Columbia, SC ($228,340)
--- New Haven, CT ($186,950)
--- Evansville, IN-KY ($182,980)
- Job description: Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
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Kelly Ogden // Wikimedia Commons
#10. Transportation, storage, and distribution managers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $131,590
- #9 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 180
National
- Annual mean salary: $105,100
- Employment: 132,210
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($163,580)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($137,680)
--- Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ ($136,410)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations. Includes logistics managers.
- Annual mean salary: $131,590
- #9 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 180
National
- Annual mean salary: $105,100
- Employment: 132,210
- Entry level education requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($163,580)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($137,680)
--- Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ ($136,410)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations. Includes logistics managers.
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Canva
#9. General internal medicine physicians
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $134,120
- #100 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 110
National
- Annual mean salary: $210,960
- Employment: 50,600
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Rochester, MN ($315,830)
--- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($314,080)
--- Wichita Falls, TX ($311,260)
- Job description: Diagnose and provide nonsurgical treatment for a wide range of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems. Provide care mainly for adults and adolescents, and are based primarily in an outpatient care setting.
- Annual mean salary: $134,120
- #100 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 110
National
- Annual mean salary: $210,960
- Employment: 50,600
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Rochester, MN ($315,830)
--- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($314,080)
--- Wichita Falls, TX ($311,260)
- Job description: Diagnose and provide nonsurgical treatment for a wide range of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems. Provide care mainly for adults and adolescents, and are based primarily in an outpatient care setting.

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Matej Kastelic // Shutterstock
#8. Business teachers, postsecondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $137,670
- #9 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 220
National
- Annual mean salary: $107,270
- Employment: 79,810
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Ann Arbor, MI ($174,050)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($172,650)
--- Durham-Chapel Hill, NC ($149,740)
- Job description: Teach courses in business administration and management, such as accounting, finance, human resources, labor and industrial relations, marketing, and operations research. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $137,670
- #9 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 220
National
- Annual mean salary: $107,270
- Employment: 79,810
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Ann Arbor, MI ($174,050)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($172,650)
--- Durham-Chapel Hill, NC ($149,740)
- Job description: Teach courses in business administration and management, such as accounting, finance, human resources, labor and industrial relations, marketing, and operations research. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

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Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#7. Education administrators, postsecondary
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $138,820
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 610
National
- Annual mean salary: $115,200
- Employment: 140,880
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Ithaca, NY ($205,810)
--- Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC ($178,210)
--- Charlottesville, VA ($176,040)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate student instruction, administration, and services, as well as other research and educational activities, at postsecondary institutions, including universities, colleges, and junior and community colleges.
- Annual mean salary: $138,820
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 610
National
- Annual mean salary: $115,200
- Employment: 140,880
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Ithaca, NY ($205,810)
--- Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC ($178,210)
--- Charlottesville, VA ($176,040)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate student instruction, administration, and services, as well as other research and educational activities, at postsecondary institutions, including universities, colleges, and junior and community colleges.

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Canva
#6. Airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $151,560
- #18 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 210
National
- Annual mean salary: $186,870
- Employment: 83,550
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI ($259,010)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($254,640)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($252,430)
- Job description: Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport certificate and rating for specific aircraft type used. Includes regional, national, and international airline pilots and flight instructors of airline pilots.
- Annual mean salary: $151,560
- #18 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 210
National
- Annual mean salary: $186,870
- Employment: 83,550
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI ($259,010)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($254,640)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($252,430)
- Job description: Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport certificate and rating for specific aircraft type used. Includes regional, national, and international airline pilots and flight instructors of airline pilots.
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Canva
#5. Nurse anesthetists
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $210,830
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 80
National
- Annual mean salary: $189,190
- Employment: 41,960
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Duluth, MN-WI ($271,940)
--- Ann Arbor, MI ($262,890)
--- Green Bay, WI ($239,140)
- Job description: Administer anesthesia, monitor patient's vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. May assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, or dentists. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
- Annual mean salary: $210,830
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 80
National
- Annual mean salary: $189,190
- Employment: 41,960
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Duluth, MN-WI ($271,940)
--- Ann Arbor, MI ($262,890)
--- Green Bay, WI ($239,140)
- Job description: Administer anesthesia, monitor patient's vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. May assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, or dentists. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
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Canva
#4. Family medicine physicians
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $212,930
- #155 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 190
National
- Annual mean salary: $214,370
- Employment: 98,590
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA ($309,800)
--- Napa, CA ($302,040)
--- Gadsden, AL ($292,110)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and provide preventive care to individuals and families across the lifespan. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.
- Annual mean salary: $212,930
- #155 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 190
National
- Annual mean salary: $214,370
- Employment: 98,590
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA ($309,800)
--- Napa, CA ($302,040)
--- Gadsden, AL ($292,110)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and provide preventive care to individuals and families across the lifespan. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.

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LightField Studios // Shutterstock
#3. Psychiatrists
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $213,110
- #60 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 30
National
- Annual mean salary: $217,100
- Employment: 25,540
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($297,710)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($289,580)
--- Kansas City, MO-KS ($287,220)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.
- Annual mean salary: $213,110
- #60 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 30
National
- Annual mean salary: $217,100
- Employment: 25,540
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($297,710)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($289,580)
--- Kansas City, MO-KS ($287,220)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.
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Maurizio Pesce // flickr
#2. Chief executives
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $241,810
- #17 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $197,840
- Employment: 202,360
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($293,000)
--- Midland, TX ($269,360)
--- Sioux Falls, SD ($263,770)
- Job description: Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
- Annual mean salary: $241,810
- #17 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $197,840
- Employment: 202,360
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($293,000)
--- Midland, TX ($269,360)
--- Sioux Falls, SD ($263,770)
- Job description: Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
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Canva
#1. Dentists, general
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Annual mean salary: $245,110
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 90
National
- Annual mean salary: $180,830
- Employment: 95,920
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($286,540)
--- North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL ($278,790)
--- Portland-South Portland, ME ($278,390)
- Job description: Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.
- Annual mean salary: $245,110
- #16 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 90
National
- Annual mean salary: $180,830
- Employment: 95,920
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($286,540)
--- North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL ($278,790)
--- Portland-South Portland, ME ($278,390)
- Job description: Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.


