Top Careers in Houston

Whether you are a student or looking to start a new career in the area, knowing what the best careers in Houston is important. In the late 90s, Houston, Texas saw a revolution in its corporate and technological sectors, leading to a massive expansion of high-paying careers. A flood of professionals filled the city shortly after, creating new corporations and new positions – a change that can still be seen on local job boards. If you’re considering moving to a tech-friendly city, or just a city with a warmer climate than say, New York City, Houston should be on your radar.

Take a look below for our list of the top ten best careers in Houston, Texas. These careers were chosen not only for their annual pay, but also for their growth and availability in the city.

Top Career #10

Physician or Surgeon

How Much Money Does a Physician or Surgeon Make?

• $170,290 in Houston
• $184,820 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Physicians or Surgeons:

Medial Degree

What Do Physicians or Surgeons Do:

Physicians and Surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Physicians examine patients, take medical histories, prescribe medications, and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries.

Top Career #9

Nurse Anesthetist

How Much Money Does a Nurse Anesthetist Make?

• $173,800 in Houston
• $154,390 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Nurse Anethestist:

Master’s of Nursing and Nurse Practitioner (learn more)

Job Responsibilities for Nurse Anesthetists:

Nurse Anesthetists administer anesthesia, monitor a patient’s vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. They typically work alongside anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, and dentists.

Top Career #8

Architectural or Engineering Manager

How Much Money Does a Architectural or Engineering Manager Make?

• $181,260 in Houston
• $133,240 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Engineering and Architectural Management:

Master’s in Technology Management (learn more)

Job Responsibilities for Architectural or Engineering Managers:

Architectural and Engineering Managers plan, coordinate, and direct activities in architectural and engineering companies. Working in an office, industrial plant, or laboratory, they’re responsible for the day-to-day activities of the branch they supervise.

Top Career #7

Dentist

How Much Money Does a Dentist Make?

• $183,270 in Houston
• $163,240 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Dentists:

Master’s in Dentistry

What Do Dentists Do:

Dentists diagnose and treat issues concerning the teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They also provide advice and instruction on ongoing oral care as well as on diet choices that affect a patient’s overall health.

Top Career #6

Family or General Practitioner

How Much Money Does a Family or General Practitioner Make?

• $189,960 in Houston
• $180,850 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Family or General Practitioners:

Doctor of Medicine

What Do Family or General Practitioners Do

Family or General Practitioners are Medical Doctors who choose not to specialize, and instead, act as a primary care doctor for a range of conditions and illnesses. Sometimes referred to “family practitioners,” General Practitioners usually treat the same individuals over their lifetime.

Top Career #5

Internist

How Much Money Does an Internist Make?

• $195,990 in Houston
• $191,520 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Internists:

Doctor of Medicine, specializing in Internal Medicine

What Do Internists Do:

After graduation, Internists must choose to either focus their practice on general internal medicine or undergo additional training to subspecialize in one of the thirteen areas of internal medicine. For example, Cardiologists are Internists who subspecialize in heart illnesses.

Top Career #4

Orthodontist

How Much Money Does a Orthodontist Make?

• $200,140 in Houston
• $186,320 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Orthodontics:

Master’s in Dentistry, specializing in Orthodontics

What Orthodontists Do:

Orthodontists realign teeth for both medical and aesthetic purposes, and treat mouth illnesses, especially when surgery is required.

Top Career #3

Obstetrician or Gynecologist

How Much Money Does a Obstetrician Make?

• $217,570 in Houston
• $216,760 one average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Obstetricians or Gynecologists:

Medial Degree with an additional Obstetrician/Gynecology residency

What Obstetricians and Gynecologists Do:

Specializing in the female anatomy, Obstetricians and Gynecologists diagnose and treat women. They prescribe medication and are an essential resource during pregnancy and childbirth.

Top Career #2

Chief Executive Officers (CEO)

How Much Money Does a CEO Make?

• $217,610 in Houston
• $176,840 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for CEOs:

Master’s in Business Administration (Learn More)

What Do Chief Executive Officers Do:

Chief Executives’ primary concern is achieving the goals of their corporation or business. Devising strategies, enacting policies, and managing the day-to-day actions of the business, the chief executive is often the most important and essential employee of the company.

The Best Career in Houston

Anesthesiologist

How Much Money Does an Anesthesiologist Make?

• $240,840 in Houston
• $232,830 on average in the U.S.

Recommended Degree for Anesthesiologists:

Medical Degree with an additional four years in an Anesthesiology residency

What Anesthesiologists Do:

Anesthesiologists are medical doctors who provide pain management care, administer anesthetics and epidurals to patients before surgery, and also provide treatment for various pain-related ailments.

To learn more about each of these careers, including a detailed look at the education required, check out our Careers Page.