8 Fun Jobs That Pay Well For 20-Year-Olds
Landing a well-paying job straight out of school or in your early 20s can be challenging. However, there are some fun, lucrative careers tailored for 20-somethings looking to earn a good salary doing what they love.
If you’re looking for a quick answer: Jobs like digital marketing, real estate agent, fitness instructor, and photographer allow 20-year-olds to make good money in exciting fields they’re passionate about.
In this article, we’ll explore 8 fun, high-paying jobs perfect for 20-year-olds just starting their careers. We’ll look at the median pay, day-to-day responsibilities, and tips for getting your foot in the door in each field.
Digital Marketing
Digital marketing is a rapidly growing field that offers great opportunities for 20-year-olds seeking fun jobs that pay well. In today’s digital age, businesses rely heavily on online marketing strategies to reach and engage their target audience.
As a digital marketer, individuals get to work with cutting-edge technology and innovative strategies to help businesses grow their online presence and drive sales.
Overview and Pay
Digital marketing involves promoting products or services using various online channels such as social media, search engines, email marketing, and content creation. The pay in this field can be quite lucrative, with entry-level digital marketing positions offering an average salary of around $50,000 per year.
As individuals gain experience and specialize in specific areas of digital marketing, such as search engine optimization (SEO) or pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, their earning potential can increase significantly.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
A digital marketer’s day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on their specific role and the company they work for. Some common tasks include:
- Creating and managing social media accounts
- Developing and implementing digital marketing campaigns
- Analyzing data and metrics to track the success of campaigns
- Optimizing website content for search engines
- Writing engaging blog posts and articles
- Collaborating with designers and content creators to produce compelling visuals and videos
Skills Needed
To excel in digital marketing, individuals need a combination of technical and creative skills. Some essential skills include:
- Strong communication skills to effectively convey marketing messages
- Analytical skills to interpret data and make data-driven decisions
- Knowledge of social media platforms and trends
- Understanding of SEO techniques to improve website visibility
- Proficiency in content creation and copywriting
- Ability to adapt to new technologies and stay updated with industry trends
How to Get Started
Getting started in digital marketing can be done through a combination of education, certifications, and hands-on experience. Many universities and online platforms offer courses and programs in digital marketing.
Obtaining certifications from reputable organizations like Google or HubSpot can also enhance credibility and open doors to job opportunities. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or freelancing projects can help individuals build a strong portfolio and demonstrate their skills to potential employers.
There are also numerous online resources and communities dedicated to digital marketing, where individuals can learn and network with industry professionals. Websites like Moz, HubSpot, and Neil Patel’s blog offer valuable insights and resources for aspiring digital marketers.
Real Estate Agent
Are you passionate about helping people find their dream homes? Being a real estate agent might be the perfect job for you! Not only is it a fun and exciting career, but it also offers excellent earning potential for 20-year-olds.
Overview and Pay
Real estate agents are responsible for buying, selling, and renting properties on behalf of their clients. They earn a commission on each successful transaction, which means the more deals they close, the more money they make.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for real estate agents is $50,730, with top earners making over $112,610 per year.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
A typical day for a real estate agent involves meeting with clients, showing properties, negotiating deals, and handling paperwork. They need to stay up-to-date with the local housing market, understand the needs and preferences of their clients, and be excellent communicators.
It’s a job that requires both people skills and a keen eye for detail.
Skills Needed
To succeed as a real estate agent, certain skills are essential. These include:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong negotiation abilities
- Knowledge of the local real estate market
- Attention to detail
- Ability to multitask and manage time effectively
- Marketing and sales skills
Having these skills, paired with a genuine passion for helping people find their perfect homes, will set you up for success in this industry.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a real estate agent, here are some steps to get started:
- Research the requirements in your state: Each state has different licensing requirements for real estate agents. Make sure you understand what is needed in your area.
- Complete the necessary education: Most states require aspiring real estate agents to complete pre-licensing courses. These courses cover topics such as real estate principles, practices, and laws.
- Pass the licensing exam: After completing the required education, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam. This exam tests your knowledge of real estate laws and practices.
- Find a brokerage: To start working as a real estate agent, you’ll need to affiliate with a brokerage. Look for a reputable brokerage that offers training and support for new agents.
- Build your network: Networking is crucial in the real estate industry. Attend industry events, join local associations, and make connections with other professionals.
- Continuing education and professional development: Stay updated with the latest trends and regulations in the real estate market. Continuing education courses can help you enhance your skills and knowledge.
Becoming a real estate agent at 20 can be an exciting and lucrative career choice. With the right skills, dedication, and a passion for helping others, you can build a successful career in the real estate industry.
Fitness Instructor
Are you passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals? Becoming a fitness instructor might be the perfect job for you. Not only is it a fun and rewarding career, but it can also provide a decent income for 20-year-olds looking to make a living while staying active.
Overview and Pay
Fitness instructors lead group exercise classes or provide one-on-one training sessions to clients. They create workout plans, demonstrate proper exercise techniques, and motivate individuals to achieve their fitness goals.
While the pay can vary depending on factors such as location and experience, the average salary for fitness instructors is around $40,000 per year. Some instructors even have the opportunity to earn additional income through private sessions or specialized classes.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
As a fitness instructor, your day-to-day responsibilities may include leading group fitness classes such as yoga, Zumba, or spin. You will also be responsible for monitoring and correcting participants’ form to prevent injuries.
Additionally, you may need to create personalized workout plans for clients based on their individual fitness levels and goals. Being able to provide guidance and motivation to your clients is essential in this role.
Skills Needed
To excel as a fitness instructor, certain skills are essential. Firstly, a strong knowledge of exercise techniques and proper form is crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your clients’ workouts.
Additionally, excellent communication skills are necessary to effectively lead and motivate a group of participants. Being able to adapt to different fitness levels and provide modifications for different abilities is also important.
Finally, having a passion for health and wellness and the ability to inspire others is vital in this role.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a fitness instructor, there are a few steps you can take to get started. Firstly, consider obtaining a certification from a reputable organization such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE) or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).
These certifications will provide you with the necessary knowledge and credibility to start your career. Additionally, gaining experience by working at a gym or fitness studio as an intern or assistant can help you build your skills and network within the industry.
Finally, consider creating an online presence through social media platforms and a website to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients.
Becoming a fitness instructor is not only a great way to stay active and share your passion for fitness, but it can also provide a rewarding and well-paying career for 20-year-olds. So why not turn your love for exercise into a fulfilling job?
Photographer
Photography is a fun and creative job that can be highly rewarding for 20-year-olds. Not only does it offer the opportunity to capture beautiful moments and express oneself artistically, but it can also be quite lucrative.
Many photographers have the potential to earn a good income through various avenues, such as weddings, events, commercial shoots, and even stock photography.
Overview and Pay
The pay for photographers can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, specialization, location, and client base. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for photographers was $36,280 in May 2020.
However, top photographers can earn six-figure incomes, especially in fields like fashion and advertising.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Photographers have diverse responsibilities that go beyond just taking pictures. They need to communicate with clients to understand their vision and requirements, scout locations, set up lighting and equipment, and edit and retouch photos.
Additionally, photographers often need to market themselves and their work to attract clients and build a strong portfolio.
Skills Needed
To excel as a photographer, certain skills are essential. These include a good eye for composition, knowledge of different camera equipment and techniques, proficiency in photo editing software, and the ability to work well with clients.
Being able to adapt to different shooting conditions and having excellent time management skills are also important in this field.
How to Get Started
To get started as a photographer, it is important to invest in a quality camera and lens that suits your preferred style of photography. Building a portfolio by taking photos of friends, family, or local events can help showcase your skills to potential clients.
Networking with other photographers and joining photography communities or organizations can also provide valuable opportunities for growth and exposure.
There are many online resources and courses available that can help aspiring photographers refine their skills and learn about the industry. Websites like B&H Photo Video and DPReview offer valuable information on equipment, techniques, and reviews.
UX/UI Designer
Are you a creative individual with a passion for technology and design? Consider a career as a UX/UI designer! Not only is it a fun and exciting job, but it also offers great pay for 20-year-olds looking to kickstart their careers.
Overview and Pay
UX/UI designers are responsible for creating user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and other digital products. They focus on enhancing the user experience by making the design intuitive and easy to navigate.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for UX/UI designers in the United States is around $80,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the company you work for. With the right skills and experience, you can earn a handsome salary in this field.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
As a UX/UI designer, your day-to-day responsibilities may include:
- Conducting user research to understand their needs and preferences
- Creating wireframes and prototypes to visualize design concepts
- Collaborating with developers and other team members to implement designs
- Testing and iterating on designs based on user feedback
- Staying updated with the latest design trends and best practices
Skills Needed
To excel as a UX/UI designer, you should possess a combination of technical and creative skills. Some essential skills for this role include:
- Proficiency in design tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, or Figma
- Understanding of user-centered design principles
- Ability to conduct user research and gather insights
- Excellent visual and communication skills
- Basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a UX/UI designer, here are a few steps you can take to get started:
- Educate yourself: Take online courses or pursue a degree in design or a related field.
- Build a portfolio: Showcase your design skills by creating a portfolio of your projects and prototypes.
- Gain experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions to gain practical experience in the field.
- Network: Attend design meetups and conferences to connect with professionals in the industry.
- Stay updated: Keep learning and improving your skills by staying updated with the latest design trends and tools.
Becoming a UX/UI designer can be a rewarding career choice for 20-year-olds who are passionate about design and technology. Not only will you get to work on exciting projects, but you’ll also have the opportunity to make a good income.
So, why not give it a try and embark on a creative and lucrative journey?
Social Media Manager
Are you a social media enthusiast? Do you spend hours scrolling through Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook? If so, then a career as a social media manager might be the perfect fit for you! Not only is it a fun job that allows you to stay connected with the latest trends and viral content, but it also pays well for 20-year-olds.
Overview and Pay
A social media manager is responsible for creating and managing content on various social media platforms for a company or individual. This includes developing a social media strategy, creating engaging posts, managing online communities, and analyzing performance metrics.
According to PayScale, the average salary for a social media manager is around $50,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the company you work for. In some cases, experienced social media managers can earn well over $70,000 per year.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
As a social media manager, your day-to-day responsibilities may include:
- Creating and scheduling posts on various social media platforms
- Engaging with followers and responding to comments and messages
- Analyzing data and performance metrics to optimize social media strategy
- Collaborating with other teams, such as marketing and design, to create compelling content
- Staying up-to-date with the latest social media trends and best practices
Skills Needed
To excel as a social media manager, you’ll need a mix of creativity, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of social media platforms. Some key skills for this role include:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to create engaging and shareable content
- An understanding of social media analytics and the ability to analyze data
- Knowledge of social media management tools and platforms
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a social media manager, here are some steps you can take to get started:
- Gain experience by managing your own social media accounts or volunteering to manage social media for a local organization
- Take online courses or earn a degree in marketing, communications, or a related field
- Build a portfolio showcasing your social media skills and achievements
- Network with professionals in the industry and attend social media conferences or events
- Apply for entry-level social media positions or internships to gain practical experience
Video Editor
Video editing is an exciting and lucrative job that pays well for 20-year-olds. With the rise of social media platforms and the increasing demand for online video content, the need for skilled video editors has never been higher.
If you have a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, this could be the perfect job for you.
Overview and Pay
Video editors are responsible for assembling raw footage into a polished final product. They work closely with directors, producers, and other members of the creative team to bring their vision to life.
The average salary for a video editor ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience and location. Freelance video editors can also earn a substantial income by working on a project basis.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
As a video editor, your day-to-day responsibilities may include reviewing footage, selecting the best takes, and arranging them in a logical sequence. You will also be responsible for adding special effects, transitions, and sound effects to enhance the overall quality of the video.
Collaboration and communication skills are crucial in this role, as you will often need to work closely with clients and other team members to ensure their vision is realized.
Skills Needed
To excel as a video editor, you need a combination of technical skills and creative flair. Proficiency in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro is essential. You should also have a good understanding of cinematography, color grading, and audio editing techniques.
Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work under pressure are also key skills needed to succeed in this field.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a video editor, there are several steps you can take to get started. Consider enrolling in a film or media production program to learn the necessary technical skills and gain hands-on experience.
Building a portfolio of your work is crucial in this industry, so start by editing videos for friends, family, or local businesses. Networking with industry professionals and joining relevant organizations can also help you get your foot in the door.
Websites like Creative Bloq and No Film School offer valuable resources and tutorials for aspiring video editors.
Software Developer
Software development is an exciting and lucrative career path for 20-year-olds who have a passion for technology. As a software developer, you will be responsible for designing, coding, and testing computer software programs.
With the increasing demand for software in various industries, the job market for software developers is thriving, making it a great option for young professionals looking for well-paying jobs.
Overview and Pay
Software developers are in high demand, and their salaries reflect this. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for software developers was $107,510 in 2020. However, it is important to note that salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry one works in.
Software developers who specialize in high-demand areas such as artificial intelligence or cybersecurity can earn even higher salaries.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
As a software developer, your day-to-day responsibilities may include:
- Writing and maintaining code for software applications
- Collaborating with a team to develop and implement new software features
- Testing and debugging software to ensure it functions correctly
- Updating and maintaining existing software systems
- Keeping up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies
Skills Needed
To excel as a software developer, certain skills are essential. These include:
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Attention to detail and the ability to write clean and efficient code
- Good communication and collaboration skills
- Continual learning and adaptability to stay updated with evolving technologies
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a software developer, there are several paths you can take. Many universities offer degree programs in computer science or software engineering, which provide a solid foundation in programming and software development principles.
Alternatively, there are also coding bootcamps and online courses that can help you gain the necessary skills in a shorter time frame.
Building a portfolio of projects and participating in open-source contributions can also help showcase your skills and make you stand out to potential employers. Networking and attending industry events can also be beneficial for finding job opportunities and staying connected with professionals in the field.
For more information on software development careers and resources, you can visit websites like Codecademy or Udemy.
Conclusion
In your early 20s, you have a unique opportunity to explore fun, lucrative careers before committing to just one field. Jobs in digital marketing, real estate, fitness, photography, design, social media, video editing, and software development offer great pay potential while allowing you to do what you enjoy.
By identifying your skills and interests, pursuing the right education and training, and being proactive in searching for entry-level roles in these fields, you can land a fun, high-paying job that kickstarts an exciting career path.
