Where to Find a List of Salaries for Careers

We ask children, what do you want to be when you grow up? It's a good question and adults should follow it by asking, how much is this job going to pay? Everyone has to have shelter, food, clothing, amusements, transportation - the list goes on and on. Be honest with yourself about your salary needs and desires and then educate yourself by tracking down lists of salaries for careers.

There are many ways to go about this task. The Occupational Outlook Handbook put out by the U.S. Department of Labor is one place to start. This resource will give you median annual earnings for your prospective job as well as how much the lowest and highest 10% in the nation earned.  There is also a breakdown for the difference in salary between union and non-union workers. That leads to another source where you can find a list of salaries for careers: the local union.  Most union representatives would be more than happy to share the minimum salary their members accept.

If your dream job isn't part of the union world, check your local newspaper and job boards. Call an employment agency that specializes in your field and create your own list of salaries for careers.. If you want to work a different city, explore the resources there. Make a list of potential employers and follow their job listings over time. Don't forget to offset salaries by the cost of living in a new city. You may be willing to accept a smaller salary in a rural area if the cost of living is comparatively low and changes for advances greater than in an urban setting. There are many lists of salaries for careers online but the most important and relevant list is the one you create for yourself. Do the research - your future will be much brighter for your efforts.