19 Most In-Demand Medical Jobs

If you are thinking about a career in healthcare, it is worth researching which jobs have real long-term growth potential.

With so many fields being reshaped by AI and automation, you want to know that your time and money in training will lead to a career with staying power. The good news is that there are dozens of healthcare jobs projected to grow significantly over the next decade.

Some of the most in-demand medical jobs in the country include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, home health aides, medical assistants, and speech-language pathologists.

These roles cover a range of patient populations, work settings, and educational requirements, so there is likely a good fit for almost anyone.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), each of the occupations we discuss here is projected to grow at least 10% in the next decade, which is much faster than the average growth rate for all jobs (3%).

That kind of momentum means more job openings, more career flexibility, and stronger long-term prospects.

This guide covers the 19 most in-demand medical jobs in the US, including common duties, job outlook, average salary, and education requirements. We'll also talk about how to decide which role might be best for you.

19 Most In-Demand Medical Jobs in the US

Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. An aging population and continued advances in medical technology are driving demand for trained professionals across nearly every specialty.

The 19 jobs below are ranked by their projected employment growth over the 2024–34 decade, from highest to lowest. All salary and employment statistics come from the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

1) Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners

This group covers three advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specialties, each with a distinct clinical focus. 

Nurse anesthetists provide anesthesia care before, during, and after surgical procedures. 

Nurse midwives specialize in women's reproductive health, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and gynecological services.

Nurse practitioners can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and deliver both primary and specialty care. In many states, they are authorized to practice independently, making them a vital part of expanding healthcare access in underserved communities.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 35% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 382,700 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $132,050, or $63.48 per hour.
• Education required. APRNs need at least a master's degree in an advanced practice nursing field.

2) Physician Assistants

Physician assistants (PAs) are licensed medical professionals who work alongside doctors to provide comprehensive patient care. They can examine patients, order and interpret tests, make diagnoses, and prescribe medications in most states. 

PAs work across a wide range of specialties and settings, including hospitals, urgent care centers, emergency rooms, and outpatient clinics.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 20% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 162,700 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $133,260, or $64.07 per hour.
• Education required. PAs need a master's degree from a PA program.

3) Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides

Occupational therapy (OT) assistants and aides support occupational therapists in helping patients develop or regain the skills they need for daily living. 

OT assistants work directly with patients, implementing treatment plans designed to improve motor function, cognitive skills, and independence under a therapist's supervision. Aides handle non-clinical support tasks like preparing treatment areas, managing equipment, and assisting with scheduling.

You will find OT assistants and aides in hospitals, rehab centers, schools, nursing facilities, and home health settings.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 18% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 54,400 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $66,050, or $31.76 per hour.
• Education required. OT assistants need an associate's degree, and OT aides need a high school diploma or GED.

4) Home Health and Personal Care Aides

Home health and personal care aides help elderly, disabled, and chronically ill individuals manage their daily lives at home. 

Home health aides typically assist with basic medical tasks, such as checking vital signs and assisting with prescribed exercises, under the supervision of a nurse or physical therapist. Personal care aides focus on everyday activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and providing companionship.

This is one of the largest healthcare occupations in the country, and demand continues to grow as the population ages.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 17% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 4,347,700 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $34,900.
• Education required. Aides need a high school diploma or GED and a state-mandated number of training hours from a program or on-the-job.

5) Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides

Physical therapist (PT) assistants and aides support physical therapists in helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions that affect movement. 

Assistants carry out therapeutic exercises and treatments under a PT's direct supervision, while aides handle non-clinical tasks like preparing equipment and escorting patients to treatment areas. 

They work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, sports facilities, nursing homes, and home health agencies.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 16% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 157,100 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $60,050, or $28.87 per hour.
• Education required. PT assistants need an associate's degree from an accredited program, and PT aides need a high school diploma or GED and on-the-job training.

6) Psychiatric Technicians and Aides

Psychiatric technicians and aides work in mental health and substance use disorder treatment settings. 

Technicians typically have more clinical responsibilities, such as helping run programs, monitoring patient behavior, and assisting with medications under a physician's supervision. Aides provide more basic support, such as supervising patients and assisting with daily routines.

These professionals work primarily in psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities, and substance use treatment centers.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 16% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 182,900 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $42,200, or $20.29 per hour.
• Education required. Technicians need a postsecondary certificate, and aides need a high school diploma or GED. Both get on-the-job training.

7) Speech-Language Pathologists

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages. 

They work with individuals who have conditions like stuttering, language delays, voice disorders, and difficulty swallowing caused by stroke, traumatic brain injury, or disease. 

SLPs are employed in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and community health clinics.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 15% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 187,400 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $95,410, or $45.87 per hour.
• Education required. SLPs typically need a master's degree in speech-language pathology.

8) Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars

Health information technologists and medical registrars organize and manage patient health data to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and security. 

They work with electronic health record (EHR) systems and code diagnoses and procedures for billing and statistical reporting. 

Most work in hospitals, physician offices, and health data companies, and remote work is increasingly common in this field.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 15% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 41,900 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $67,310, or $32.36 per hour.
• Education required. Requirements for this role vary; some workers need an associate's degree, some need a bachelor's degree.

9) Massage Therapists

Massage therapists use hands-on techniques to manipulate muscles and soft tissues in the body to relieve pain, reduce stress, and support overall wellness. 

They work in a variety of settings, including spas, chiropractic and sports medicine offices, hospitals, and private practices. 

Many massage therapists are self-employed, which provides flexibility in their schedule and the types of clients they serve.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 15% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 168,000 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $57,950, or $27.86 per hour.
• Education required. Requirements vary by state, but most therapists need a postsecondary educational certificate of some kind for licensing.

10) Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists (OTs) help patients develop or recover the skills needed for everyday living and work after an illness, injury, or disability. They assess each patient's abilities and create individualized treatment plans that may include therapeutic exercises, adaptive equipment, and modifications to the patient's environment. OTs work in hospitals, rehab centers, schools, home health settings, and mental health facilities.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 14% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 160,000 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $98,340, or $47.28 per hour.
• Education required. OTs typically need a master's degree in occupational therapy.

11) Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound imaging technology to produce pictures of the body's internal organs, tissues, and blood flow, which physicians use to diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Specializations include obstetric and gynecological imaging, cardiovascular sonography, and abdominal imaging. Most work in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and physician offices, and they need strong technical skills and close attention to detail.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 13% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 90,000 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $89,340, or $42.95 per hour.
• Education required. They typically need an associate's degree or postsecondary certificate.

12) Orthotists and Prosthetists

Orthotists design and fit custom orthopedic braces and support devices for patients with injuries, neurological conditions, or musculoskeletal disorders. Prosthetists design and fit artificial limbs for patients who have lost them due to injury, disease, or congenital conditions. Both professionals assess each patient's individual needs, take precise measurements, and build custom devices to help restore function and mobility.

They typically work in hospitals, dedicated orthotics and prosthetics clinics, and rehab facilities.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 13% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 10,100 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $78,310, or $37.65 per hour.
• Education required. Both roles require a master's degree and a residency.

13) Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory therapists care for patients with breathing problems and cardiopulmonary disorders, including asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and lung disease. They perform diagnostic tests, administer treatments like oxygen therapy and nebulizer treatments, and manage patients on mechanical ventilators. 

Respiratory therapists work primarily in hospitals, especially in intensive care units and emergency departments, as well as in nursing facilities and home health settings.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 139,600 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $80,450, or $38.68 per hour.
• Education required. Most need an associate's degree in respiratory therapy; some employers may require a bachelor's degree.

14) Medical Assistants

Medical assistants perform both administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings like physician offices, clinics, and urgent care centers. 

On the clinical side, they take vital signs, draw blood, administer injections, and prepare patients for exams. On the administrative side, they handle scheduling, patient records, and insurance billing.

Medical assisting is one of the most accessible entry points into a healthcare career, with short training programs and strong demand across the country.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 811,000 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The average salary is $44,108 annually or $21.21 per hour.
• Education required. Employers prefer MAs to have a certification, but it is possible to work with just a high school diploma or GED and on-the-job training.

15) Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians

Occupational health and safety specialists and technicians work to protect employees from workplace hazards. 

Specialists assess work environments for physical, chemical, and biological risks, develop safety programs, and ensure compliance with regulations set by agencies like OSHA. Technicians assist specialists by collecting data, inspecting equipment, and helping implement safety measures.

They are employed across many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, construction, and government.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 163,700 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $78,900, or $37.93 per hour.
• Education required. Specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety, and techs need a high school diploma or GED.

16) Athletic Trainers

Athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries to muscles, bones, and joints. 

They work closely with athletes at the professional, collegiate, and high school levels, creating conditioning and rehab programs and working with physicians on patient care. 

Athletic trainers also work in hospitals, clinics, military settings, and performing arts organizations.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 33,900 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $60,250, or $28.96 per hour.
• Education required. They typically need a master's degree.

17) Physical Therapists

Physical therapists help patients manage pain and improve movement affected by injury, surgery, aging, or chronic disease. They develop personalized care plans that may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and the use of specialized equipment. 

Physical therapists work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, nursing facilities, home health agencies, and schools, treating patients across all age groups.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 267,200 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $101,020, or $48.57 per hour.
• Education required. PTs need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

18) Veterinarians

Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals, ranging from household pets and livestock to exotic and zoo animals. They perform surgeries, prescribe medications, and advise owners on nutrition and preventive care. 

While most veterinarians work in private clinical settings, others pursue careers in research, public health, military service, or food safety inspection.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 86,400 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $125,510, or $60.34 per hour.
• Education required. They must have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

19) Chiropractors

Chiropractors diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, with a primary focus on the spine and its relationship to the nervous system. 

They use spinal adjustments, manual therapy, and other hands-on techniques to reduce pain, improve function, and support the body's natural ability to heal. 

Most chiropractors run their own private practices or work in group healthcare settings alongside physicians and other providers.

• Job outlook. This field is projected to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
• Number of jobs in the US. There are currently about 57,200 people employed in this field nationwide.
• Average salary. The median annual salary is $79,000, or $37.98 per hour.
• Education required. They typically need a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.

In-Demand Medical Jobs Comparison

Deciding Which In-Demand Healthcare Career Is Best for You

With so many options available, narrowing down the right healthcare career can feel overwhelming. A few key factors can help guide your decision. Here is what to consider as you evaluate your options.

• Think about your education timeline. Healthcare careers span a wide range of educational requirements. Some roles, like home health aides and medical assistants, can be entered with a certificate or short training program. Others, like nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physical therapists, require a master's or doctoral degree, which means a longer path before entering the workforce.
• Consider the work setting. Some healthcare professionals spend most of their time in hospitals or clinics, while others visit patients at home, work in schools, or run their own practices. If you prefer a structured clinical environment, roles like respiratory therapist or diagnostic medical sonographer may be a good fit. If you value flexibility or self-employment, roles like massage therapy or chiropractic care offer those options.
• Know your salary expectations. Salaries across these roles range widely, from around $34,900 for home health aides to over $133,000 for physician assistants. It is worth weighing a role's earning potential against the cost and length of the required education.
• Follow your professional interests. Would you like to work face-to-face with patients every day, or are you more comfortable at a computer or working from home? The more closely a career fits with your natural interests and preferences, the more rewarding and sustainable it will be.
• Factor in job growth. All 19 roles on this list are projected to grow much faster than average over the next decade. Fields like nurse practitioners (35%) and physician assistants (20%) are growing especially fast, which can mean more job openings, stronger earning potential, and greater career flexibility.