What’s your dream job? We asked 400 Americans

A new survey has revealed the dream jobs of Americans, ranging from children’s book illustrator to stay-at-home dad.

Conducted by Talker Research between October 21 and 24,, the survey asked 1,000 Americans about their dream jobs. Results found that 43 percent of Americans have a “dream job” in mind, while 46 percent said they do not, while 12 percent were unsure.

Almost 400 respondents took the time to write out specific job titles, roles, or fields they longed for, offering insights into the varied and often personal career dreams of Americans today.

The responses revealed a mix of traditional and modern roles, flexible work ideals and a particular interest in owning your own business.

What Are American’s Dream Jobs?

Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship: Many dream of autonomy, hoping to run their own businesses or be their own boss. From running a jewelry store to launching a cleaning business or small restaurant. “Owning my own business with several cash-flowing assets so that I can be financially free” was one respondent’s dream.

Creative Arts and Media: Others said they envision a life in the arts, such as working as a music producer, YouTuber, fashion designer, or novelist. One respondent hopes to “collaborate on innovative projects that make a positive impact.”

Helping Professions: For many respondents, dreams aren’t just about them, with responses from people who said their dream job was to help others by becoming a nurse, teacher, social worker, or veterinarian. “My dream job would be to help victims of domestic violence and those living in poverty,” wrote one respondent.

Animal Care and Nature-Oriented Jobs: A love for animals and nature was also at the forefront. Jobs like zookeeper, veterinarian, national park ranger, or even a fire lookout in the Santa Fe National Forest were listed in responses.

Flexible, Work-From-Home Jobs: Reflecting a shift in work culture, many respondents desired jobs with flexibility, remote work, and better work-life balance. A recurring dream was “working from home, making enough to pay the bills,” showing the value people place on autonomy and time at home.

The survey also revealed generational shifts in dream jobs. Younger generations were more likely to have a dream job than older counterparts, for example 61 percent of Gen Z said they have a dream job, compared to just 28 percent of Baby Boomers.

Some respondents, now in jobs they once dreamed of, also shared what it’s like to be living their dream: “I had the dream job of being a physics teacher for 29 years,” wrote one participant. Another said: “I’m living my dream running my own business, though a pay increase would make it even better.”