Goodbye daytime work in the U.S. – 10 night jobs that offer more than $100,000

Not everyone thrives during the day. Some of us, night owls, prefer the quiet hours, when the world slows down, and distractions fade away. If you find yourself more productive at night, you’re not alone. Even musicians like Hozier sing about how much better they work at night in his song Too Sweet. For those who prefer the evening to early mornings, there are plenty of jobs that offer competitive salaries. If you work late where you are free from the phone (and the job gets done anyway), this is the perfect article for you.

If you’re looking for a lucrative job during the night, here are the ten best-paying night shift positions, starting from the lowest salary and moving up to the highest:

1. Flight Attendant – $56,000 per year

Flight attendants working overnight shifts face unique challenges, from navigating dark cabins to providing top-notch customer service. Their ability to manage long, quiet flights earns them a salary of around $56,000 per year.

2. Warehouse Manager – $57,000 per year

Overseeing night operations in a warehouse is no easy task. Warehouse managers ensure smooth logistics, manage staff, and maintain inventory control. For these responsibilities, they earn an average of $57,000 annually.

3. Respiratory Therapist – $60,000 per year

Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in caring for patients with breathing difficulties, especially during the night. Working in hospitals or specialized clinics, these professionals earn around $60,000 per year while providing vital services.

4. Police Officer – $65,000 per year

Night shifts for police officers are often busier and more dangerous, involving emergency responses and crime prevention. Officers working these shifts are compensated with a higher salary, averaging $65,000 per year.

5. Train Operator – $67,000 per year

Train operators working at night ensure the safe and timely operation of trains. Their tasks require excellent focus and coordination, particularly when visibility is lower. With a salary of $67,000 a year, train operators are well-compensated for their work in the twilight hours.

6. Registered Nurse (RN) – $75,000 per year

Registered nurses who work night shifts often take on greater responsibilities due to smaller staffing numbers. They provide essential care in hospitals and nursing homes, earning about $75,000 annually for their dedication to helping patients through the night.

7. Air Traffic Controller – $124,000 per year

Managing air traffic at night is no small feat. Though there may be fewer planes in the sky, the stakes are just as high, requiring sharp attention to detail and excellent coordination. Air traffic controllers earn an average of $124,000 per year, making this one of the most lucrative night jobs available.

8. Pharmacist – $128,000 per year

Pharmacists who work in 24-hour pharmacies are responsible for dispensing medications and providing urgent medical advice. With fewer customers during the night, emergencies can arise, and pharmacists need to be ready to act. On average, pharmacists earn $128,000 annually for their nighttime efforts.

9. Commercial Pilot – $130,000 per year

Flying through the night can be challenging for commercial pilots, requiring acute awareness and piloting expertise. Overnight flights come with additional demands, which is why pilots flying these routes earn an impressive $130,000 a year.

10. Emergency Room Physician – $300,000 per year

Emergency room physicians work under immense pressure, providing life-saving care in the dead of night. Their fast-thinking skills, calm demeanor, and deep medical knowledge make them indispensable. With a demanding schedule, this role commands a high salary, averaging around $300,000 annually.

Night shift jobs aren’t just for those who prefer the evening. They offer some of the best-paying opportunities across a range of industries. Whether you’re working in healthcare, aviation, or law enforcement, the stillness of the early morning hours can bring a sense of peace that daytime jobs simply can’t offer. If you’re a night owl looking to boost your income, one of these roles might be the perfect fit for you.