In today’s world, earning a decent living doesn’t always require a college degree or years of experience. Many people are now seeking jobs that pay $20 an hour, especially with the rising cost of living. Whether you’re looking for full-time employment, part-time flexibility, or a side hustle to supplement your income, there are several opportunities available across industries that pay well and don’t demand advanced education.
Let’s discover the kinds of jobs that pay $20 an hour or better, how to qualify for them, and where to find them.
Why $20 an Hour Matters
Earning $20 an hour won’t set you up in luxury, but it does offer a better standard of living than minimum wage. Here’s a quick math calculation:
$20/hour x 40 hours/week = $800/week
$800/week x 52 weeks/year = $41,600/year
For individuals or small families, this can cover rent, bills, food, and even allow for savings, depending on your location. It’s no wonder so many people are searching for jobs that pay $20 an hour—it’s a solid benchmark for financial stability.
Industries Offering $20/Hour Jobs
Several industries regularly offer roles that pay $20 an hour or more. Here are some key sectors to consider:
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Skilled Trades
Trade jobs are also well-paid, with little need for a degree. Most pay more than $20 an hour after you’ve gained some experience or a certification.
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Electricians – Once out of an apprenticeship, most electricians can make more than $25/hour.
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Plumbers – New plumbing helpers can start at around $18–$20/hour.
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HVAC Technicians – Heating and air conditioning technicians can make more than $20/hour in no time.
Bonus: They are high-demand jobs that typically have long-term job security.
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Delivery and Driving Jobs
The rise of food delivery and e-commerce has turned driving into a lucrative source of income.
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Amazon Delivery Drivers – Amazon Flex and other courier gigs tend to start at $20/hour.
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Food Delivery (DoorDash, Uber Eats) – Rates are unpredictable, but drivers tend to earn about $20/hour, including tips.
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Rideshare Drivers (Uber, Lyft) – Busy periods can see income rise over the $20/hour threshold.
They have flexible schedules, which make them perfect for individuals who need to balance work with school or another employment.
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Healthcare Support Roles
Though doctors and nurses need decades of education, most healthcare support careers do not.
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Medical Assistants – Salary varies depending on the facility and state but is usually $18–$24/hour.
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Phlebotomists – Following brief training, some make more than $20/hour collecting blood in clinics or hospitals.
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Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) – With experience and the right work location, CNAs can equal or exceed $20/hour.
Healthcare is a field that’s growing, so it means more opportunities for employment and consistent work.
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Tech and IT Support
The technology field is not only for computer programmers. Support positions are sought after and pay well.
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IT Support Specialist – For general certifications such as CompTIA A+, initial pay will typically start around $20/hour or higher.
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Data Entry & Remote Admin Work – As much as salaries may fluctuate, specialized admin or data entry work for computer companies can reach the $20/hour plateau.
Remote positions abound in this arena, allowing employees location independence.
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Office and Administrative Jobs
Administrative jobs tend to offer stable hours and decent pay without demanding a degree.
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Executive Assistants – Generally pay $20–$30/hour based on the firm and experience.
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Bookkeepers – Part-time bookkeepers are usually hired by small businesses at $20+/hour, particularly if you are familiar with QuickBooks.
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Virtual Assistants – Most VAs with niche skills (marketing, tech, finance) make $20/hour and more.
These gigs are perfect for you if you’re an organized, detail-oriented, and communicative person.
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Part-Time and Gig Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour
Not all people are in search of full-time work. There are gigs available for part-time workers who want to earn $20 an hour.
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Freelancing
Freelancers determine their own rates and can earn much more than $20/hour working in such fields as:
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Writing
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Graphic Design
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Social Media Management
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Web Design
Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal are good places to begin.
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Tutoring
Online tutors, particularly for popular topics such as math, science, or SAT prep, can charge $20–$50/hour. Companies such as VIPKid or Wyzant bring tutors and students together.
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Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Services such as Rover and Wag provide flexible work opportunities, and many pet sitters can earn $20/hour or more, particularly with more than one pet or overnight stays.
How to Qualify for $20/Hour Jobs
Most of these jobs need skills more than education. Here’s the way to improve your prospects:
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Obtain Certification
Temporary certifications can lead to better pay:
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CPR/First Aid (excellent for healthcare or childcare work)
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Forklift Operator License (warehouse work)
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Google IT Support Certificate
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Real Estate License
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Create a Resume Focused on Transferable Skills
Even if changing careers, highlight skills such as:
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Customer service
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Time management
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Computer literacy
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Communication
These are precious across industries.
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Utilize Job Platforms That Screen by Pay
Sites such as Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and Glassdoor enable users to search for $20-per-hour jobs specifically. Utilize filters to limit opportunities that fit your requirements.
Where to Find These Jobs
In addition to popular job boards, these are additional sources to look for high-paying hourly jobs:
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Company Websites – Apply directly to companies such as UPS, FedEx, Costco, and others that offer competitive hourly pay.
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Government Job Portals – Many city or state jobs offer solid pay and benefits.
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Local Facebook Groups – Many communities post gig or part-time work opportunities in your area.
Don’t overlook word-of-mouth either—tell friends and family you’re looking for jobs that pay $20 an hour.
Entry-Level Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour
Surprisingly, there are entry-level positions that start at or quickly grow to $20/hour:
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Warehouse Workers – Retailers such as Amazon and UPS tend to pay $20+/hour with bonuses and shift pay.
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Security Guards – With the proper guard card and employer, pay can begin at $20/hour.
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Customer Service Representatives – Particularly in technical or finance industries, wages can go up to $20/hour.
These jobs tend to provide on-the-job training, which makes them ideal for first-time workers.
Remote Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour
Home job opportunities keep on increasing. Several individuals enjoy work-from-home employment for the freedom and absence of commute.
Certain remote work for $20/hour are:
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Technical Support Representatives
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Home-based Chat Agents
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Content Writers
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Medical and Legal Transcriptionists
Even the lowest level of virtual work, when paired with the proper employer or industry, can reach past the $20/hour milestone.
Advice to Get a $20/Hour Job
The following are a few last pointers to assist you in securing an excellent-paying hourly job:
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Make Your Resume Stand Out – Tailor it for every position you go for.
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Accentuate Soft Skills – These are sometimes more powerful than experience.
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Apply Regularly – Job seeking is a full-time job until you get one.
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Follow Through – A telephone call or note can put you at the forefront.
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Be Willing to Start Slightly Lower – Starting at $18 but receiving a raise after several months is not a bad idea either.
Final Thoughts
There’s an ever-lengthening list of $20-per-hour jobs, and most of them are more within reach than individuals may think. Whether starting over, seeking better, or simply desiring additional money on the side, these jobs create a bridge to financial gain without requiring a college degree.
Take the time to assess your skills, explore the right industry, and apply to roles that fit your lifestyle and goals. With the right approach, that $20/hour job you’re seeking might be just around the corner.