Looking to kickstart your career? These are the best jobs for 2026, Indeed says
With the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the definition of a good job is constantly changing. Indeed Hiring Lab recently released its list of the best jobs in the U.S. for 2026, taking into account factors such as job availability, median salary, wage growth, and job listing growth rate.
Healthcare Dominance
Healthcare professions take the lead in Indeed’s ranking, comprising 40% of the top 50 jobs on the list. Recent government labor data also supports the strong job growth in the healthcare industry.
The top job for 2026, according to Indeed, is a cardiac medical technician. With a 34% increase in job listings since 2022 and a corresponding wage growth, cardiac medical technicians now earn a median salary of nearly $134,000. Nurse practitioners also rank high on the list, with a median salary of $143,183.
Coming in at second place is the role of a truck owner-operator. These drivers earn a median salary of $160,000 and are highly sought after in the current job market.
Data scientist, ranked at No. 10 by Indeed, is the sole technology job in the top 10. Other tech roles in the top 50 include SAP consultant, software engineer, and business intelligence developer. These professionals work directly with artificial intelligence but have not been replaced by the technology, according to Laura Ullrich, director of economic research at Indeed.
Skilled Trades
Several top-ranked jobs in the skilled trades sector made it to the list, showing limited influence of AI. HVAC technician ranks at No. 16, with growing demand for electricians also highlighted. These professions are considered less exposed to AI, with growing interest among young individuals.
Ullrich pointed out that hands-on jobs are less at risk and mentioned the resurgence of interest in skilled trades programs at community colleges. HVAC technicians, electricians, and other skilled trade jobs are now in high demand.
