The economy has been rather shaky in recent years. For that reason, many individuals are prioritizing job stability in their career choices. As it happens, certain industries and job sectors are proving to be recession-proof so far in 2023.
Whether you are looking to switch careers or are entering the job market for the first time, you’re seeking an occupation that is secure and poised for growth. Fortunately, if you start a search online today, you can learn more about the careers that are in high demand this year.
Top Trends
The demand for medical professionals is trending upward for 2023 and beyond. Over the coming years, the number of job opportunities available for physicians and surgeons alone is expected to grow by 27 percent. Meanwhile, the number of openings for nurses is set to increase by 45 percent.
The vast professional hub that is known as the data sciences is also growing by leaps and bounds. The field is set to grow by more than 30 percent in 2023 alone. Careers ranging from data analysis and digital marketing to social media management are all in high demand. Now, let’s get to those recession-proof jobs!
Anesthesiologists
Median annual salary: $208,000
Anesthesiology is a highly lucrative career option in 2023. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 400 anesthesiologists positions are set to open between now and 2031. If that statistic doesn’t blow your mind, here’s some context: the unemployment rate among anesthesiologists is just 0.3%. Talk about job security!
Virtually all trained and certified anesthesiologists are employed, and we mean gainfully employed. With the average salary sitting at over $200,000, it’s hard to refute that the investment of medical school is paying off for these professionals.
Surgeons and Physicians
Median annual salary: $208,000
The Anesthesiology field is a microcosm of the medical profession as a whole, which continues to grow at an incredible rate. Approximately 21,400 surgeon and physician positions are set to open by 2031. Interestingly, their median salary is just as competitive as anesthesiologists, sitting at an identical $208,000 per year.
As this list proves, the medical sector is a great place to secure recession-proof jobs. As the American population ages, more positions will flourish in maxillofacial surgery and health service management. In a stunning example, home health aide and personal care aide positions are set to increase by a million jobs by 2031.
Psychiatrists
Median annual salary: $249,760
Moving on to a different kind of physician, psychiatrists are proving just as valuable to the job economy in 2023. According to BLS, psychiatry jobs are projected to grow 8.7 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
This demand is driven by several factors. Increasing awareness of mental health issues, plus the expansion of services under the Affordable Care Act, have galvanized psychiatry. And with a median annual salary sitting at nearly a quarter of a million dollars, the psychiatry field is a very safe career bet.
Software Developers
Median annual salary: $120,990
Moving from the medical field to the tech scene, software developers are projected to increase in numbers by 26 percent over the next decade. That jump of roughly 370,000 software developers should make it clear that this is one of the fastest growing careers. For what it’s worth, U.S. News ranks software development as not only the top career in the tech sector, but the top career overall!
Software developers are instrumental for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. As more industries – like healthcare, finance, and retail – become dependent on computer systems, these jobs will become plentiful and lucrative.
IT Managers
Median annual salary: $159,010
Speaking of increased reliance on technology, careers in information technology are also on the rise. As cyber threats and data breaches become more common, IT managers play a key role in managing the risks associated with technology. For that reason and more, the profession is projected to grow 16 percent from 2021 to 2031.
IT managers aren’t only responsible for overseeing the implementation of new computer systems, but also managing teams. Unsurprisingly, all of those technical and leadership skills translate into a generous average salary of $159,010.
Future-Proof Careers
Pursuing a recession-proof job is a wise career choice, especially during these uncertain economic times. While a variety of job sectors are showing steady growth, the medical and tech industries are leading the pack.
Research professions that appeal to you and carefully evaluate your skills, interests, and long-term goals. By choosing a career in a secure industry, you can position yourself for long-term success and stability. On top of that, you can make a valuable contribution to the workforce and the economy as a whole!