9 Low-Stress Jobs That Pay Well And How to Get Them

Some of the most common low-stress jobs include being a librarian, transcriptionist, archivist, massage therapist, graphic designer, and virtual assistant. These roles typically offer predictable routines and expectations, along with a manageable workload in calm environments. 

If you're considering making the switch, follow along as we explore what makes a job low-stress, highlight some of the best options available, and show you how to position yourself for success.

What Makes a Job Low-Stress?

A job is low-stress when you:

9 Low-Stress Jobs & Their Salaries

Here are nine low-stress jobs, along with their salaries: 

#1. Librarian

Working as a librarian entails organizing and managing resources, such as books and periodicals, according to classification systems like those of the Dewey Decimal or the Library of Congress.

In addition, you help people find the information they need through library catalogs or databases and recommend books based on their needs and interests. Depending on your library, you may also plan community events or workshops and possibly partner with local schools, authors, and organizations.

A librarian’s skills include basic digital literacy to maintain public computers and help others with printing, scanning, or accessing the Internet for research. In a senior position, administrative work might also be a part of your day-to-day. 

This is a calm work environment with a rather structured routine, so you are not mentally and physically strained. Although you will still need strong communication skills, people usually come in with polite requests or questions, so you are generally not expected to handle intense interpersonal conflict. Librarians typically earn an average annual salary of $64,320. 

#2. Data Entry Specialist

A data entry specialist inputs, updates, and maintains information in digital systems. This low-stress job relies on both hard and soft skills, such as Excel proficiency for the former and attention to detail for the latter. 

Depending on your industry, you will work with contact lists, sales records, and invoices. In general, though, you will be expected to type quickly and accurately and follow instructions to the T. 

Still, it’s a rather relaxing profession because most of your day will be spent quietly entering or checking data. The work is structured and straightforward; you mostly know exactly what to do and how to do it, which reduces mental pressure. 

You can find many remote work opportunities in data entry, so it might be possible to further reduce the stress of commuting. The annual median total pay a data entry specialist makes is $49,000. 

#3. Graphic Designer 

Graphic designers use visuals to communicate messages and ideals. They typically design websites, advertisements, logos, brochures, packaging, etc., in agencies, in-house teams, and startups. 

Besides creativity and problem-solving skills, however, working in this field also requires you to collaborate with marketers, creative teams, and clients to deliver a polished product. Moreover, you will likely have to use tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Figma, Framer, or Canva. 

A graphic designer’s workflow also includes revising based on feedback and preparing final files by ensuring resolution, dimensions, and file types meet the project requirements. The median annual total pay for graphic designers is $61,300. 

If you enjoy visual storytelling, the work itself can be rewarding; most projects follow a clear timeline, so your schedule is fairly structured. Collaboration tends to be asynchronous, and you have autonomy, so it’s safe to say this is a low-stress job worth considering.  

#4. Massage Therapist

A massage therapist provides treatments to target tension, soreness, or stiffness and creates a relaxing environment where clients feel at ease. 

When not working directly with a client, you might wash linens, sanitize tools, clean surfaces, or maintain treatment records and note changes in a client’s condition. Unlike many other low-stress jobs, this role requires greater physical stamina and strength, and often involves specific licensing requirements that vary by region.

If you are looking for a peaceful career, massage therapy is a good option. Typically, you work with one client at a time, which means no juggling multiple demands at once. The massage rooms you work in daily are intentionally designed to be soothing, so you also benefit from the calm atmosphere. You can earn a median total pay of $57,950 per year.

#5. Transcriptionist

A transcriptionist listens to audio or video recordings and types out the spoken content into written form. This role requires excellent listening and language skills. You will also need to be able to concentrate for long periods. 

After converting what you hear into text, you will have to proofread for typos, inconsistencies, etc. Recordings can include interviews, meetings, medical dictations, legal proceedings, and podcasts. Therefore, you must follow specific style guides or templates based on the client’s industry (e.g., legal, medical, academic) and handle confidential materials. 

Transcription work is considered a low-stress job for introverts by many; you can usually work from home and set your own schedule. It’s task-based, and there is minimal interaction with clients or coworkers. Annually, transcriptionists earn a median total pay of $53,000. 

#6. Archivist 

Archivists work in museums, libraries, universities, government agencies, or corporations to maintain long-term collections. These are calm work environments, mostly free of interruptions. 

Much of the job involves solo research, cataloging, or organizing, with limited external pressure and minimal multitasking. There is also an added sense of meaning in safeguarding valuable historical information for future generations. 

However, to become an archivist, you need more than just organizational skills, and many positions require advanced degrees. The annual median total pay for archivists is $57,100.

#7. Pet Sitter

Pet sitting is a fun, low-stress job that allows you to spend quality time with animals. The tasks are typically simple, including feeding, walking, playing, and cleaning up. It can be a flexible option if you work independently or through an on-demand platform. 

Pet-sitting is not overly complicated, so it is often a go-to job for teenagers; however, you will still need to be reliable because you are responsible for someone else’s pets. It is possible to earn a median total pay of $33,860 as a pet sitter. 

#8. Remote Virtual Assistant 

One of the best easy jobs with good pay is being a remote virtual assistant (VA). As a VA, you will likely provide administrative support, such as managing calendars, scheduling meetings, responding to emails, and organizing files.  

The specific tasks depend on your client and the niche you choose to be in. In customer service, for instance, you will answer queries, process orders or returns, and manage follow-ups. In marketing, you will help schedule posts, reply to comments or messages, and create content. 

In general, you will need solid writing, time management, and interpersonal skills. The annual median total pay for remote virtual assistants is $53,000; however, many VAs set their own rates, especially when freelancing. 

#9. Garden Worker 

If you enjoy working outdoors or find nature calming, a garden worker role might be a perfect fit. In this position, you will care for green spaces like parks, gardens, estates, or private yards.

Your tasks will generally include planting, watering, pruning, weeding, mulching, mowing lawns, and sometimes designing basic garden layouts. You may also apply fertilizers, use hand tools, and check the health of plants. 

Garden workers often follow seasonal schedules and work independently or in small teams, making it a physically active but mentally low-pressure role. The median annual pay range for garden workers is $38,470. 

How to Make the Switch to a Low-Stress Career 

To make a switch to a low-stress career, it is important to approach the transition thoughtfully. If you’re considering a career change due to stress, you can follow these six steps:

Closing Thoughts

If you are seeking stability, predictability, or simply a calmer work environment, you can consider low-stress jobs like working as a librarian, transcriptionist, archivist, or virtual assistant. 

These roles allow you to prioritize peace of mind without sacrificing income, with salaries typically ranging from $42,000 to $118,000 per year. Before applying for such a position, don’t forget to upskill as needed and create a tailored resume with the help of our resume builder to demonstrate to employers that you are a great fit!

Low-Stress Jobs FAQs

#1. What is the best job for anxiety sufferers? 

The best jobs for anxiety sufferers depend on their specific triggers, but in general, low-stress and low-stimulation roles with limited social pressure are ideal for such people. These include positions such as data entry specialist, librarian, transcriptionist, or archivist. 

#2. Can I earn a good salary in a low-stress job?

Yes, you can earn a good salary in a low-stress job, especially if you build experience. A few options with solid earning potential include graphic designers, massage therapists, and virtual assistants. 

#3. Do I need a special resume for low-stress jobs?

You don’t need a special resume for low-stress jobs; however, you should always tailor your resume to the role you are applying for to increase your chances. Focus on highlighting your relevant skills, and use a clean, clear resume format that matches the job’s tone.