The 2026 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs Report by experts at resume building platform Resume Genius analyzes stress tolerance data regarding time pressure, interpersonal conflict and decision-making autonomy of certain jobs.
These roles were then cross-referenced with U.S. Bureau of Labor data to ensure they meet or exceed the national median salary of US$60,000 and show faster-than-average job growth.
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Workers talk in an office. Photo by Unsplash/Vitaly Gariev |
1. Astronomer
Astronomers secure the top spot with a median annual salary of $132,170, or $63.54 an hour. Job growth is estimated at 2% from 2024 to 2034, and a graduate or doctorate degree is typically required.
The role involves studying stars, planets and galaxies. It is a mix of computational analysis, long-term project planning, and writing – typically in universities, observatories, or government labs.
“A lot of astronomy is deep work: analyzing datasets, running simulations, and collaborating with a small team – without the constant churn of customer-facing demands or high-conflict situations,” the report said.
The pace is usually driven by research timelines and occasional deadlines, not minute-to-minute emergencies, and the role often offers high autonomy.
2. Actuary
Actuaries have a median annual wage of $125,770, or $60.47 an hour. Employment is projected to grow by 22% from 2024 to 2034, and a bachelor’s degree is usually required.
Actuaries use statistics and financial models to assess risk and its potential costs, spanning anything from accidents to illness and market shifts.
This role is rarely built around urgent, same-day emergencies. The work tends to move on planned timelines, with long stretches of focused analysis instead of constant interruptions.
“It’s also more analytical than emotional: you’re using data to advise on risk, not managing heated disputes or customer crises,” Resume Genius said.
3. Computer systems analyst
Computer systems analysts earn a median of $103,790 a year, or $49.90 an hour. Job growth is projected at 9% between 2024 and 2034, and a bachelor’s degree is typically required.
The role focuses on advising organizations on software and systems, with limited customer-facing stress. These analysts look at what a company needs, spot gaps in current systems, and recommend software, tools, or process changes – often acting as the bridge between business teams and IT.
It’s a planning-and-problem-solving job. Much of the work happens on project timelines, with time to test and document before changes go live.
4. Cartographer and photogrammetrist
Cartographers and photogrammetrists, referring to map makers and professionals who work with satellite data, earn a median annual salary of $78,380, or $37.68 an hour.
Employment is expected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, and a bachelor’s degree is generally required. The work involves creating and updating maps in a steady, low-demand environment.
These experts create and update maps using tools like GIS software, satellite images, and aerial photography. They turn raw location data into clear, visuals used for planning, navigation, and research.
They often spend most of the day working with data and mapping tools in a quiet office setting, with fewer tense interactions than roles tied to sales targets or constant client demands.
5. Historian
Historians earn a median of $74,050 a year, or $35.60 an hour. Job growth is projected at 2%, and a master’s degree is typically required.
The role involves researching and interpreting past events, often with flexible timelines and self-directed work. They often work in universities, museums, government roles, or consulting projects.
A lot of the job is self-directed research and writing, which tends to be calmer than roles with nonstop meetings or urgent requests. Deadlines exist, but they’re usually tied to longer projects, and the work itself is more about careful thinking than fast reactions.
