As hiring rates in the United States slow down, certain job sectors are displaying remarkable stability. According to Indeed’s projection for the best jobs in 2026, roles that require hands-on skills and human interaction have shown the most resilience.
Indeed evaluated a multitude of job postings across the country, considering factors such as competitive salaries, immediate demand, wage growth, hiring momentum, and remote work flexibility. The analysis reveals that healthcare roles dominate the list, highlighting their importance in the current labor market.
The following are the top ten jobs likely to thrive through 2026:
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Cardiac Medical Technician
- Median Salary: $133,907
- Job Growth: 34%
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Truck Driver Owner-Operator
- Median Salary: $160,000
- Job Growth: 39%
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Nurse Practitioner
- Median Salary: $143,183
- Job Growth: -2%
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Speech-Language Pathologist
- Median Salary: $109,431
- Job Growth: 11%
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Licensed Professional Counselor
- Median Salary: $107,812
- Job Growth: -17%
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- Median Salary: $119,618
- Job Growth: -32%
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Physical Therapist
- Median Salary: $110,848
- Job Growth: 0%
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Occupational Therapist
- Median Salary: $105,580
- Job Growth: 13%
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Radiation Therapist
- Median Salary: $115,923
- Job Growth: 8%
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Data Scientist
- Median Salary: $115,079
- Job Growth: 15%
Laura Ullrich, North America research director for the Indeed Hiring Lab, emphasized the healthcare sector’s significant contribution to job growth, accounting for 72% of overall increases despite representing only 11% of total jobs. This insight underscores the vital role of healthcare employment during a period of market stagnation.
Why this story matters
- Reflects current employment trends and the resilience of certain job sectors.
Key takeaway
- Healthcare roles dominate job growth, signaling a shift in workforce demand.
Opposing viewpoint
- Critics may argue that job stagnation in other sectors highlights systemic issues affecting the broader labor market.
