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Not all wills are alike. There are actually four main kinds and one of them may be right for you. Sure, writing a will can be an easy task to put off until “someday.” But what if the worst were to happen before “someday?” That could mean a complicated and emotionally draining legal process for your loved ones. Creating a will not only can provide peace of mind for your loved ones after you die — it can also provide peace of mind for you right now.

The simple definition of a will is a document that states your final wishes. This alone was sufficient a century ago, when many people had limited property to pass down. But in the modern era, when “property” encompasses everything from the contents of your long-forgotten storage unit to the crypto you decided to buy on a whim, a simple will may not encompass your complex life.

Not only that, but a will is a document that only takes effect after you die. But what if you were medically unable to make decisions? Modern end-of-life documents encompass your wishes if you were medically or otherwise unable to make decisions on your own. Among these documents is one that also has the world “will” in its name.

4 Kinds of Wills

As you begin estate planning, you’ll likely come across four common types of wills. These are:

•   A simple will

•   A joint will

•   A testamentary trust will

•   A living will

Let’s look at each type of will more closely.

What Is a Simple Will?

A simple will may be the type of will that pops into your mind when you hear the word “will.” This will can:

•   State how you want your property bequeathed upon death

•   Provide guardianship specifications for minors

Upon death, a simple will is likely to go through a legal process known as probate to divide assets. Sometimes, in the case of high-net-worth individuals, probate can be expensive. (For those with complex situations and a positive net worth, a trust can help handle those what-ifs. It can transfer assets out of your estate and into the trust, which can be advantageous in terms of taxes.)

However, in many situations, a simple will can provide peace of mind for people in good health. Later, these individuals may want to take on more complex estate planning, but a will provides a good foundation when it comes to making sure guardians are named and property is divided according to your wishes.

A simple will can be created through online templates, and the cost can be zero dollars to several hundred dollars. More expensive online options may come with support from an attorney who can help answer questions. Once created, a will then needs to be made legal according to state laws. This may include signing the will in front of witnesses. You may also want to have it notarized. Having a hard copy of the will, as well as people who know how to access it in case of your death, can ensure the will is found in a timely manner.

Recommended: How to Make a Will: 7 Steps

What Is a Joint Will?

A joint will functions in much the same way as a simple will, except it is a will created by two people, usually who are married to each other. It merges their wishes into a single legal document. In many cases, this kind of will dictates that property will be left entirely to the surviving partner. Here’s the catch, though: Upon death, property will be distributed in the manner dictated by the will. The surviving person does not have the ability or authority to make changes to what the will says once the initial spouse has died.

This can sound streamlined, especially if couples were planning to leave everything to each other anyway. But this type of will can cause headaches. For example, if the surviving spouse has more children or gets remarried, it can be almost impossible to provide for additional people not named in the initial, joint will.

There could be problems even if the surviving spouse does not remarry. For example, if the marital home is considered an asset to be given to the couple’s children upon the death of both of the will’s creators, it may be impossible for the surviving spouse to sell a home to downsize.

One alternative that may suit married couples is to create two individual wills. This may provide a greater degree of flexibility and better achieve the desired effect without ruling out all of life’s what-ifs.

What Is a Testamentary Trust Will?

A testamentary trust will is usually part of big-picture estate planning. It is a document that creates a trust that goes into effect when you die. This trust can outline how certain types of property will be divided. A testamentary trust can have certain stipulations (for example, someone only inherits X piece of property when they reach Y age). This can also be used for people with minors or dependents to help ensure that wishes are followed.

What’s more, a testamentary trust can also help provide for pets. Because a pet can’t own property, naming your “fur baby” within a will can set up a legal headache. But a testamentary trust can ensure that your pet will be provided for according to your wishes.

It’s worth noting that a testamentary trust will go through the probate process, and it may not have the same tax benefits for recipients as other types of trusts. Weighing the pros and cons of different trust options can be helpful before settling on the best one for your situation.

What Is a Living Will?

This is a hard topic to think about, but what if you were in an accident and were knocked unconscious? What if you were undergoing treatment for a serious medical condition and couldn’t fully grasp the options offered to you? There’s a way to put a trusted relative or friend in the decision-making role. A living will, which is also known as an advance directive, specifies your wishes if you were medically incapacitated or unable to make or communicate decisions about your medical care. It also stipulates who your healthcare proxy, also known as a medical power of attorney, would be to make medical decisions on your behalf.

If you are creating a living will, you may also want to create a power of attorney document. This designates a person — who may or may not be the same person as your healthcare proxy — who has the right to make financial decisions on your behalf. Having a living will can cover unexpected situations that may occur before death and can be an integral part of end of life planning.

Recommended: How to Write a Will Online: 8 Steps

The Takeaway

While end of life planning can be a challenging or sad endeavor, it’s an important step in making sure your assets are directed where you want them to go and that other important wishes are executed as you want. There are four main types of wills to help you legally record your plans; more than one may suit your needs. And you can decide to use online services or work in person with an attorney.

In either case, making a will can give you peace of mind right now — and help smooth things along for your loved ones in the future during a difficult time.

When you want to make things easier on your loved ones in the future, SoFi can help. We partnered with Trust & Will, the leading online estate planning platform, to give our members 20% off their trust, will, or guardianship. The forms are fast, secure, and easy to use.

Create a complete and customized estate plan in as little as 15 minutes.

Photo credit: iStock/LaylaBird

SOPRO-Q425-018

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a crane and tower operator in May 2023 (the latest data available) was $68,040 per year, or $32.71 per hour. Depending on experience, industry, and location, some crane operators can make considerably more.

A crane operator is responsible for the safe and precise transportation of large loads at building sites. Crane operators play a crucial part in the dynamic world of heavy machinery and construction, and the need for people in this role is growing along with the demand for infrastructure projects.

Read on to learn more about how much a crane operator can make, typical salary ranges, where to find the top-paying jobs, and the training and experience required to get a job as a crane operator.

What Are Crane Operators?

Crane operators handle all aspects of operating a crane — a machine that is used to lift and move heavy loads, machines, materials, and goods for a variety of purposes. A trade job that is often in high demand, crane operators are vital to many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and construction.

Individuals in this role are responsible for more than just operating controls. To guarantee the safe and effective transportation of objects, crane operators also need to have a thorough awareness of load capabilities, safety procedures, and other site-specific factors.

Crane operators may use a variety of different cranes, including tower cranes, mobile cranes, and boom trucks, to perform their jobs. Though crane operators work solo, it’s not necessarily a good job for people with social anxiety, as they must be able to effectively communicate with other members of the construction team on the ground.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Crane Operators Make a Year?

The starting salary for crane operators varies depending on industry, region, prior training, and certifications, but the lowest-paid crane operators make $39,200 per year.

The earning potential of crane operators tends to improve as they gain more certificates and experience. The first few years lay the groundwork for skill development, and operators who put in the time and effort can move up the pay scale. Working overtime and overnight shifts can also boost crane operators’ salaries.

Recommended: 11 Work-From-Home Jobs for Retirees

What Is the Average Salary for a Crane Operator?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a crane and tower operator is $68,040. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,200, while the highest 10% earned more than $98,820.

How much a crane operator makes, however, will depend on the operator’s level of expertise, industry specialization, and geographic location.

Crane operators working for construction and mining companies typically earn more than those who work in warehousing, storage, and manufacturing.

How Much Money Does a Crane Operator Make by State?

As mentioned above, how much money a crane operator makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a crane operator makes per year, on average, by state.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Crane Operator Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

To become a crane operator, you first need a high school diploma or an equivalent. While not required, many crane operators attend trade school to learn practical construction skills and how to operate heavy machinery, including cranes. This is typically a one- or two-year course.

After graduating from a high school or trade school, many crane operators enroll in a general crane operator training program. These programs, which last between three weeks and three months, help prepare aspiring crane operators for the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) examination.

It’s necessary for crane operators to hold the certification relevant to the types of cranes they operate. Some states and cities also require crane operators to hold a local license.

Once you have a job as a crane operator, you can not only earn competitive pay but also benefits. Many companies supplement the base pay with perks like paid time off, health insurance, and retirement programs.

When thinking about a career as a crane operator, it’s important to take into account the whole range of compensation and benefits that come with the job.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of a Crane Operator Salary

As with any profession, working as a crane operator comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the pros and cons of this role will help you determine if you’re well-suited for this career path.

Pros

•  Competitive salary: While you may not earn a $100,000 a year salary as a crane operator, this is generally a well-paid position.

•  Opportunities for overtime: Since construction projects often take longer than originally anticipated, crane operators frequently have the opportunity to make extra money by working overtime.

•  Industry need: The need for construction projects is ongoing, which helps to maintain a solid job market for crane operators and a constant flow of employment prospects.

•  Opportunities for advancement: As crane operators gain knowledge and specialized skills, they may be able to negotiate higher wages.

Recommended: The Pros and Cons of Salary vs Hourly Pay

Cons

•  Physically demanding: Operating a crane can be physically taxing since it involves standing or sitting for extended periods of time.

•  Safety concerns: Working with heavy machinery at significant heights is a necessary part of the profession, which has inherent safety concerns. Strict adherence to safety procedures is essential to avoiding accidents.

•  Variable working conditions: Crane operators are often exposed to a range of weather conditions and terrain. Work conditions can be challenging.

•  Training and certification requirements: You can’t just get a job as a crane operator right out of high school. Training and certification is necessary, which means you may need to invest some time and money into the career before you can start making a good salary.

The Takeaway

Crane operator jobs are one of the most coveted positions in the construction business, thanks to the competitive pay. On average, crane operators earn $68,040 per year, but certain jobs in competitive areas can pay considerably more. Crane operators often have the opportunity to work overtime and typically get benefits on top of their base pay.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To ensure your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

Can you make $100K a year as a crane operator?

The average annual salary for a crane operator is $68,040. However, a highly skilled and experienced crane operator may be able to make a six-figure salary, especially those employed in high-demand industries or areas.

Do people like being a crane operator?

Many people find a job as a crane operator rewarding due to its competitive pay, diverse work environments, and opportunities for skill development and advancement. For some, however, the physical demands and safety risks lower overall job satisfaction.

Is it hard to get hired as a crane operator?

Working as a crane operator can provide ample job opportunities for people who are qualified to work with these machines safely. To get a good job as a crane operator, you typically need to take trade school courses, complete general operator training, and gain apprenticeship experience.

Photo credit: iStock/ewg3D

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SORL-Q425-048

The median annual wage for speech pathologists in the U.S. is $95,410, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). But salaries can vary significantly, ranging from less than $60,480 to more than $132,850.

How much money you can make as a speech-language pathologist may depend on several factors, including the industry in which you work, the level of education you attain, and where you live.

Here’s a look at what speech pathologists do and how they are paid.

What Is a Speech Pathologist?

Speech pathologists are health care providers who evaluate, diagnose, and treat children and adults who are experiencing communication difficulties because of speech, language, or voice problems. They also may treat clients who are struggling with developmental delays, memory issues, or who have trouble swallowing.

Speech pathologists typically work in a school, hospital, or rehabilitation/nursing home setting, or they may open their own practice. They often work as part of a multi-disciplinary team that also provides occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other types of care.

All speech pathologists must be licensed. While the qualifications can vary by state, a master’s degree from an accredited university is often required, along with several hours of supervised clinical experience, a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), and a passing grade on a state exam.

Depending on the work you plan to do, other certifications may be required by your employer, including a teaching certificate if you practice in an educational setting.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Speech Pathologists Make a Year?

Speech-language pathologists earn an average of $95,410, with the lowest 10% earning less than $60,480. The states with the highest salaries include California, Colorado, New York, and Hawaii. Those that are employed in states with higher average salaries should earn more starting out than states that pay less-than-average.

Recommended: 22 High-Paying Vocational Jobs

What Is the Average Salary for a Speech Pathologist?

So how much can you expect to make per year if you stay with a career as a speech pathologist? While the median salary is $95,410 ($43.87 hourly), the top 10% earn more than $132,850.

Several factors can have an impact on speech pathologists’ earnings, including job duties, the type of facility where they’re employed, if they work full- or part-time, if they’re paid a salary vs. hourly wage or on a per-visit basis, and whether they work in a region with a higher cost of living.

Here are the mean annual salaries for speech pathologists by state.

Mean Speech Pathologist Salary by State

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Recommended: Cost of Living by State

Speech Pathologists Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

If you decide speech pathology is the right fit for you, you may not need to worry about job security. The BLS is projecting that employment of speech pathologists will grow by 15% over the next decade, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Therapists are needed more than ever to assist aging baby boomers and others who’ve experienced a stroke, hearing loss, dementia, or other health-related issues. And there is an increasing need for those who wish to work with kids and adults on the autism spectrum. Therapists are also needed to help children overcome speech impediments and other communication issues.

Of course, the pay and benefits you receive will likely be tied to the job you choose. If you’re employed by a public school district in a rural community, for example, you may not earn as much as a department head at a large health facility in a major city. Still, you can expect to receive benefits similar to other workers in the health-care field, including health insurance, a retirement plan, vacation pay, etc.

According to the BLS, the median wages in the top industries were:

•  Nursing and residential care facilities: $106,500

•  Hospitals; state, local, and private: $101,560

•  Offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists: $98,470

•  Educational services; state, local, and private: $80,280

As you weigh your career decisions, consider using online tools to ensure you’re staying on track with your personal and financial goals. A money tracker app, for example, can help you create a budget and keep an eye on your spending and your credit score.

Pros and Cons of a Speech Pathologist’s Salary

One big downside of choosing a career as a speech pathologist is the amount of time and money it can take just to get started. After getting your bachelor’s degree, it may take two or more years to complete your master’s degree and clinical training. Depending on the career path you choose, you also may need to earn certain certifications along with your state license to practice. And it may take some time to pay off your student debt.

On the plus side, you’ll be helping others in a career that can be extremely fulfilling, and you can earn a comfortable living while doing so.

Here are some more pros and cons to keep in mind.

Pros:

•  As a speech pathologist, you will be helping others and, in many cases, changing lives.

•  You’ll be working and networking with other professionals who will allow you to continue learning.

•  You may be able to design a schedule that fits your needs (especially if you have your own practice).

Cons:

•  You may have an overwhelming caseload, and the work could be frustrating and stressful at times.

•  You may have to work nights and weekends (even with a job in education or in private practice).

•  The paperwork can be daunting and may require working overtime or taking work home to keep up.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

The median pay for speech pathologists is $95,410 per year, and the job outlook is highly positive, with 15% growth predicted over the next decade. How much you earn — especially when starting out — can depend on several factors, including the specialty you choose, who your employer is, and where you’re located.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

Can you make $100,000 a year as a speech pathologist?

Yes. The median annual wage for speech-language pathologists in the U.S. is $95,410, with the highest 10% of earners in this category making more than $132,850.

Do most speech pathologists enjoy their work?

Many speech pathologists find their work rewarding, as they help individuals improve communication and oral function. The satisfaction of seeing progress in patients, the variety of cases, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on people’s lives contribute to a high level of job enjoyment.

Is it hard to get hired as a speech pathologist?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for speech pathologists is much faster than average, and should be solid for the next decade. If you get the proper education and training, and you have a passion for helping others, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find work in this profession.

Photo credit: iStock/akinbostanci

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SORL-Q425-050

Nutritionists make $73,850 a year on average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the highest 10% earning more than $101,760 per year.

Nutritionists guide people on how to eat for better health or to meet specific goals, such as losing weight or lowering blood pressure. Some work one-on-one with clients in clinical settings, while others design meal plans and wellness programs for schools, community centers, or public health organizations.

Read on to learn more about how much a nutritionist can make per year and per hour, which states pay the highest salaries, and other compensation and occupational benefits nutritionists enjoy.

What Are Nutritionists?

A nutritionist is an expert in using food to improve health and to prevent and manage disease. Nutritionists often advise people on what to eat to address a particular medical issue, such as hypertension, diabetes, or obesity. They may also be called upon to come up with a plan of action in situations where a treatment protocol, such as chemotherapy, impacts an individual’s overall diet or creates particular food sensitivities. Their exact role will depend on their specialization.

Being a nutritionist is not an ideal job for antisocial people, since you generally don’t work alone. Nutritionists can work in a variety of work settings, including:

•   Hospitals and doctors’ offices

•   Nursing homes

•   Gyms and recreation centers

•   Foodservice organizations

•   Food and beverage companies

•   Pharmaceutical companies

•   Government organizations

While the terms “nutritionist” and “dietitian” are often used interchangeably, there are some key distinctions between them. A registered dietitian (R.D.) is qualified to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions. Nutritionists, on the other hand, tend to focus on general nutritional aims and behaviors.

While every dietitian can be called a nutritionist, not every nutritionist is a dietitian.

How Much Do Starting Nutritionists Make a Year?

While the average nutritionist’s salary is $73,850 a year, someone just starting out in the field may not be able to earn that figure as an entry-level salary. The lowest 10% of nutritionists made less than $48,830 per year.

That said, a nutritionist coming into the profession with an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctorate, and a license or other credentials, may be able to command a higher-than-average salary even when they are just starting out.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

What Is the Average Salary for a Nutritionist?

While salaries for a nutritionist can range anywhere from $48,830 to $101,760, the average annual pay for a nutritionist in the U.S. is $73,850 a year.

Nutritionist’s typically get paid an annual salary but some may make money by the hour, which averages $35.50.

How much a nutritionist makes, however, can vary significantly by education, credentials, experience, industry, and location.

Recommended: Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

Average Nutritionist Salary by State for 2025

As mentioned above, how much money a nutritionist makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a dietician makes per year, on average, by state.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Nutritionist Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

To get a job as a nutritionist or dietitian, you may need:

•   A bachelor’s degree, ideally in dietetics, nutrition, food service systems management, clinical nutrition, or a related area

•   An advanced degree (such as a master’s or doctoral degree)

•   Supervised training through an internship

•   A license (many, though not all, states require licenses for dietitians and nutritionists to practice)

•   Certification (many dietitians earn the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist credential, which requires a bachelor’s degree and a completed dietetic internship program)

Nutritionists who work on staff typically receive not only competitive pay but also a suite of benefits, which may include:

•   401(k)

•   Dental insurance

•   Disability insurance

•   Employee assistance program

•   Flexible spending account

•   Health insurance

•   Life insurance

•   Paid time off

•   Retirement plan

•   Vision insurance

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Nutritionist

As with any profession, becoming a nutritionist comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a closer look at the job’s pros and cons.

Pros

•   Opportunity to help people: Nutritionists help people by guiding them in their food choices and assisting them in reaching their health and nutritional goals, which can be highly rewarding.

•   Varied tasks and responsibilities: A nutritionist can enjoy meeting a variety of people in different contexts. No client or situation will be the same, and each will bring new challenges.

•   Can work in a variety of settings: Nutritionists can choose where they want to work, such as a hospital, nursing home, school, or gym. With extensive experience, a registered dietitian might open a private consulting practice and offer specialized services to their patients.

•   Strong job outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment of dietitians and nutritionists to grow 6% between 2024 and 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Recommended:Top 10 Fastest-Growing Jobs

Cons

•   May need an advanced degree and certification: Depending on where you want to work, you may need to obtain a master’s and/or certain certifications (on top of a bachelor’s degree).

•   Can be emotionally draining: Though generally a low-stress job, nutritionists may need to have frequent interactions with seriously ill patients, which can be emotionally challenging.

•   You constantly have to stay up to date: Nutrition is an evolving science, which means you’ll need to stay current on the latest nutritional guidelines, regulations, and research, and adjust your practice based on new developments.

•   Competition for top-paying jobs: While the job outlook is strong for nutritionists, jobs with competitive pay may receive a lot of applicants. Obtaining more than the minimum education and training required by the state, however, can set you apart from other job competitors.

Recommended: How Much Does a Nurse Make a Year?

The Takeaway

Working as a nutritionist can be a rewarding career for people who want to help others improve their health and lifestyle. Nutritionists can choose where they want to work and who they want to work with. A nutritionist’s salary can range from $48,830 to $101,760 or more depending on their certification, experience, and employer.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To confirm your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a basic budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a nutritionist?

Yes, you can earn $100,000 a year as a nutritionist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10% of earners make more than $101,760 per year.

Do people like being a nutritionist?

People who want to help others and who have an interest in the science of food will enjoy being a nutritionist. There are plenty of opportunities for nutritionists in a variety of contexts.

Is it hard to get hired as a nutritionist?

Nutritionists and dieticians are currently in demand and job opportunities are expected to grow 6% between 2024 and 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Photo credit: iStock/Candle Photo

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SORL-Q425-046

The median annual wage for psychologists in the U.S. is $94,310, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). But salaries can vary significantly, ranging from less than $55,000 to more than $155,000.

How much money you can make as a psychologist may depend on several factors, including the industry you choose to work in, the level of education you attain, and where your job is located. Here’s a look at what psychologists do and how they are paid.

What Are Psychologists?

Psychologists are mental health professionals who are trained to help individuals and groups understand and address various behavioral, emotional, and organizational challenges. There are several different types of psychologists, including:

•   Clinical and counseling psychologists, who evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders such as depression, anxiety, grief, anger, and addiction. The majority of psychologists fall into this group.

•   Industrial/organizational psychologists, who help organizations solve workplace issues and improve work-life balance.

•   School psychologists, who specialize in dealing with problems that can affect students’ behaviors and learning.

•   Neuropsychologists, who study how damage to a person’s brain or body can impact behavior and cognition.

•   Forensic psychologists, who may collaborate with various law enforcement agencies, attorneys, judges, and others on certain aspects of a legal case.

It’s important to note that a psychologist is not the same thing as a psychiatrist, though they are often confused. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medications. A psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology, which is a social science .Similarly, while a psychologist may be considered a therapist, not all therapists are psychologists, since therapists are not typically required to hold doctoral degrees.

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What Does It Take to Become a Psychologist?

Do you have good observational skills? Are you a problem solver? Do you pride yourself on your ability to build a rapport with others? Do you have empathy for people who are experiencing emotional or behavioral issues?

If so, you may find you’re well-suited for a career as a psychologist. But you’ll also have to get the education and training necessary for the job.

Psychologists usually must have at least a master’s degree to get into the field, and depending on what type of work you hope to do, you may need a doctoral degree as well. Clinical and counseling psychologists, for example, typically need a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree.

Industrial-organizational psychologists usually earn at least a master’s degree, with coursework that focuses on understanding how people behave in the workplace. School psychologists also may need at least a master’s degree with a focus on student development and other educational issues. And most degree programs can also require an internship and clinical experience.

Most states also require psychologists to obtain a license. And there are several certifications available that specific employers may require.

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How Much Do Starting Psychologists Make a Year?

According to ZipRecruiter, as of late 2025, entry-level salaries for clinical psychologists may range from $69,000 to $159,000 or more.

Of course, the work you do, your education level, your certifications, and even your work location can impact how much you might earn as a beginning psychologist.

What Is the Average Salary for a Psychologist?

So, how much can you make per year if you choose a career as a psychologist?

The BLS lists a mean annual salary of $106,850 for clinical and consulting psychologists. The majority of psychologists fall into this category, but there are also specialists like industrial-organizational, school, and forensic psychologists.You can expect your specialty to influence how much you earn. According to BLS statistics, industrial-organizational psychologists currently earn the highest salaries, with a mean of $134,400, while school psychologists earn the least, with a mean of $93,610 per year.

Staying up to date by continuing your education and training may help boost your salary as well. And building a reputation through research and publishing can also make a psychologist more valuable to employers and clients.

If you’re hoping to negotiate for a more competitive paycheck, it’s important to remember that salaries — or how much a psychologist makes an hour — may be affected by the cost of living or demand in a particular region.

Here’s how clinical and counseling psychologists’ average annual salaries break down by state, according to the BLS. (Data is not available for all states.)

Average Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary by State

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Psychologist Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Besides a pretty good paycheck, another plus to becoming a psychologist is that you may not have to worry about job security. The BLS is projecting overall employment of psychologists will grow by 6% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations combined. And job growth for those who specialize in clinical and counseling psychology is projected to grow by 11%.

Of course, the pay and perks you’ll receive as a psychologist will likely be tied to the specialty you choose and the salary negotiation tactics you use. Whether you’re a school psychologist or work for a major corporation, you can expect to be offered benefits such as health insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off, and opportunities for continuing education.

Depending on the type of work you do, you may also be able to participate in profit-sharing, receive regular bonuses, work a flexible schedule, or earn income from consulting or writing books.

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Pros and Cons of a Psychologist’s Salary

Probably the biggest downside of choosing a career as a psychologist is the amount of time and money it can take just to get started. After getting your bachelor’s degree, it may take two or more years to complete your master’s degree, and then another four to seven years to earn your doctorate degree. Add on even more time for training — and to study for your license — and it could be several years before you can pursue the job you want. And by that time, you may have some substantial student debt to pay down.

On the plus side, you’ll be in a career that can be both personally and financially rewarding.

Here are some more pros and cons to consider:

Pros

•  You’ll be helping people. As a psychologist, you can have a meaningful impact on others, whether you’re working with children or adults.

•  The demand (and respect) for psychological services is increasing, as mental health is now considered an important part of our overall well-being.

•  Whether you’re drawn to research, counseling, or clinical practice, a career in psychology can offer a wide array of job options. You may even be able to design a job and flexible schedule that suit your needs.

•  You may benefit personally from skills like empathy, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving that you gain as a psychologist.

Cons

•  Trying to help people who have behavioral and emotional issues can be stressful. It may be difficult to leave work at work.

•  You may run into ethical dilemmas that make dealing with a client and/or employer a challenge.

•  If you decide to open your own practice, you’ll have to deal with the business side of things as well as the work you’re doing with clients.

•  Depending on the type of work you do, your job may be dangerous at times. You may have to counsel a person with anger issues, for example, or someone who has committed a violent crime, which could put you at risk.

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The Takeaway

Working as a psychologist can be a fulfilling career, and finding and keeping a job in this growing field shouldn’t be too difficult. But you can expect to make a substantial investment in time and money before you finally get the job you want. And how much money you make as a psychologist can depend on several factors, especially when you’re starting out. The specialty you choose, who your employer is, and where your job is located can all affect your earning potential.

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FAQ

Can you make $100,000 a year as a psychologist?

Yes. According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, psychologists make a median annual salary of $94,310, which suggests that a significant number of psychologists make more than $100,000 a year.

Do people like being a psychologist?

Psychologists who responded to the website CareerExplorer’s ongoing survey on job satisfaction rated their career happiness a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Is it hard to get hired as a psychologist?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for psychologists is expected to be strong through the next decade. If you get the proper education and training, and have a passion for helping others, it shouldn’t be too hard to find work in this profession.

Photo credit: iStock/Dean Mitchell

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