It’s 2024. The world around us is moving faster than ever. Technology is advancing at a fierce speed, transforming everything from how we work to how we live. The jobs that once were considered secure are being replaced by AI or automation, while leaving us wondering about the future. But in the midst of this uncertainty, there’s a golden opportunity. A chance to not just survive, but to thrive in this new era.

What’s that? High income skills. These are the skills that will set you apart, that will make you indispensable in a world where change is the only constant. 

In this blog, we’re going to explore the top 20 high income skills to learn in 2024. These aren’t just any skills; they’re the ones that will keep you ahead of the curve, ready to take on whatever comes next. So, if you’re ready to future-proof your career and secure your place in the fast-paced world of tomorrow, let’s dive in.

The Importance of High income skills

In this rollercoaster of a job market, it’s easy to feel like you’re just one technological upgrade away from being obsolete. But fear not! There’s a way to not only stay relevant but to thrive, and it all comes down to mastering high income skills.

No, these are the high income skills that make employers sit up and say, “We need you!”—the kind of skills that can put your name in lights (or at least on the top of the payroll).

Why are they so important, you ask? Well, let’s break it down:

Job Security in a World Full of Uncertainty

The World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs Report 2023” predicts that 85 million jobs could be displaced by automation by 2025. But it’s not all doom and gloom. 97 million new roles may emerge, especially in areas requiring high income skills such as data analysis, AI, and content creation. 

While the robots are great at crunching numbers and doing all the repetitive stuff, they’re not so hot at thinking outside the box, building relationships, or, you know, being human. High income skills often involve creativity, critical thinking, and specialized knowledge, things that are pretty hard to program into a machine. Mastering these high income skills makes you irreplaceable, ensuring you’re not the one getting the pink slip when the bots take over.

Higher Earning Potential

Roles that require high income skills such as software developers, data scientists, and financial managers, often come with salaries well above the national median. For example, in 2022, the median annual wage for software developers was £92114, while data scientists were pulling in a median salary of £76992. These high income skills give you the power to negotiate higher salaries, snag promotions, or even go rogue and start your own business where you call the shots

Flexibility to Roll with the Punches

Job roles requiring high income skills such as AI specialists, cloud engineers, and digital marketing experts are among the fastest-growing jobs. High income skills are often transferable across industries, meaning today’s data analyst might be tomorrow’s AI whisperer or blockchain guru. The key is having the skills that let you jump on new opportunities as they arise.

So, if you’re looking to not just survive but thrive in 2024 and beyond, high income skills are your secret weapon to tackle whatever the future throws your way whether it’s a new technology, an economic shift, or a particularly stubborn piece of office equipment.

The balance between soft skill and hard skill

To truly excel in today’s job market, it’s not enough to focus solely on technical abilities (hard skills) or interpersonal skills (soft skills). The most successful professionals understand the importance of balancing both.

• Hard Skills are technical abilities that are specific to a job or industry. These skills are often measurable, teachable, and acquired through formal education or training. Examples of hard skills include programming, data analysis, and cybersecurity expertise. In 2024, hard skills will be critical for roles that require specialized knowledge and technical proficiency, especially in fields like AI, cybersecurity, and data science.
• Soft Skills, on the other hand, are interpersonal or cognitive abilities that apply across various jobs and industries. These skills are typically developed through experience and include communication, problem-solving, leadership, and emotional intelligence. Soft skills are increasingly recognized as essential for navigating complex work environments, especially as automation takes over more routine tasks.

The most sought-after professionals in 2024 are those who can effectively integrate both hard and soft skills. For example, a data scientist who can not only analyse data but also communicate insights effectively to non-technical stakeholders will be far more valuable than one who excels only in technical analysis.

Top 20 high income skills to learn in 2024

In 2024, certain skills will stand out as the key drivers of high-income opportunities. Below is an overview of the top 20 high income skills, along with relevant job titles, average incomes, and the education or certifications needed to develop each skill.

1. Data Science & Analytics

Data science involves extracting insights from structured and unstructured data using statistical methods, algorithms, and machine learning. It’s essential for businesses looking to make data-driven decisions. According to a study in 2023,  the Data Science and Analytics related job roles are among the top 10 jobs expected to grow fastest between 2023 and 2027.

Average Income: £57,250 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer

Education/Certification: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, or a related field is often required. Certifications such as Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) or Google Data Analytics Certificate can enhance employability.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication

2. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

AI and ML focus on creating systems that can learn and make decisions autonomously. These technologies are increasingly integrated into various industries, from healthcare to finance. AI and machine learning roles are expected to see continued growth across industries like healthcare, finance, and autonomous vehicles.

Average Income: £79,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Research Scientist

Education/Certification: Typically requires a degree in computer science or a related field. Advanced degrees (master’s or PhD) are common. Certifications like TensorFlow Developer or AI & Machine Learning by Stanford Online are valuable.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Creativity, strategic thinking, ethical judgment

3. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity involves protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. As cyber threats grow, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to rise. The global cybersecurity market is expected to reach £500 billion by 2023,

Average Income: £47,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Information Security Analyst, Cybersecurity Engineer, Ethical Hacker

Education/Certification: A bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field is common. Certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly regarded.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Attention to detail, problem-solving, decision-making

4. Software Development & Programming

Software development involves designing, coding, and maintaining applications and systems. It’s fundamental to nearly all aspects of technology. Software development will continue to grow with the rise of digital transformation, with an increasing focus on cloud computing, AI, and mobile development.

Average Income: £48,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Software Developer, Full Stack Developer, Mobile App Developer

Education/Certification: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering is typical. Popular certifications include Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP) and Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Collaboration, adaptability, time management

5. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing involves delivering computing services like storage, processing, and networking over the internet. It’s crucial for businesses to adopt to digital transformation. Cloud adoption across industries will drive demand for cloud engineers and architects.

Average Income: £50,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Cloud Engineer, Solutions Architect, DevOps Engineer

Education/Certification: Requires a degree in computer science or IT. Key certifications include AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, and Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Problem-solving, project management, communication

6. Digital Marketing

Digital marketing leverages online platforms to promote products and services. It includes SEO, content marketing, and social media strategy. Digital marketing continues to evolve with the increasing use of AI for personalized marketing and the rise of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for brand engagement.

Average Income: £47,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Digital Marketing Manager, SEO Specialist, Content Strategist

Education/Certification: A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or business is common. Certifications such as Google Ads Certification, HubSpot Content Marketing Certification, and Facebook Blueprint are valuable.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Creativity, communication, analytical thinking

7. Financial Management & Investment

This skill involves managing financial assets, making investment decisions, and ensuring the financial health of an organization. As global markets become more complex, demand for financial analysts and investment professionals is expected to grow significantly from 2021 to 2031. The rise of fintech and decentralised finance (DeFi) will create new opportunities in this field.

Average Income: £43,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager

Education/Certification: A degree in finance, economics, or accounting is typically required. Certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) are highly respected.

Future Trends and Demand: 

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Analytical thinking, decision-making, risk management

8. Blockchain Technology

Blockchain is the technology behind cryptocurrencies and is being applied in various sectors for secure, transparent transactions. Blockchain technology is expanding beyond cryptocurrencies into areas like supply chain, healthcare, and finance.

Average Income: £61,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Blockchain Developer, Blockchain Architect, Smart Contract Developer

Education/Certification: A background in computer science or engineering is common. Certifications like Certified Blockchain Developer (CBD) and IBM Blockchain Foundation Developer are beneficial.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, innovation

9. UX/UI Design

UX/UI design focuses on creating user-friendly interfaces and enhancing user experience in digital products. As user experience becomes a key differentiator for digital products, the demand for UX/UI designers is on the rise.

Average Income: £38,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: UX Designer, UI Designer, Product Designer

Education/Certification: A degree in design, computer science, or a related field is common. Certifications like Nielsen Norman Group UX Certification and Google UX Design Certificate are useful.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Empathy, creativity, collaboration

10. Sales & Business Development

Sales and business development involve generating leads, closing deals, and expanding business opportunities. The shift towards digital sales and the importance of customer relationship management (CRM) tools will increase the demand for skilled sales professionals.

Average Income: £45,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Business Development Manager, Sales Executive, Account Manager

Education/Certification: A degree in business, marketing, or communications is often required. Sales training programs like Certified Professional Sales Person (CPSP) and Sandler Sales Certification can boost credentials.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Communication, negotiation, relationship-building

11. Project Management

Project management involves planning, executing, and closing projects, ensuring they meet deadlines and budgets. With the rise of complex and cross-functional projects, agile methodologies and digital project management tools will become increasingly important.

Average Income: £52,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Project Manager, Program Manager, Scrum Master

Education/Certification: A degree in business, engineering, or management is common. Certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) are highly valued.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Leadership, organization, problem-solving

12. Copywriting & Content Creation

Copywriting and content creation involve crafting compelling content that engages audiences and drives conversions. The demand for content creators is expected to grow as brands increasingly rely on digital content for marketing.

Average Income: £50,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Copywriter, Content Strategist, Marketing Writer

Education/Certification: A degree in English, communications, or marketing is typical. Certifications in content marketing, such as HubSpot’s Content Marketing Certification, are advantageous.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Creativity, storytelling, time management

13. Health & Wellness Coaching

Health and wellness coaching involves helping individuals achieve their health goals through guidance and support. Increasing awareness of mental health and preventive care will drive demand for health and wellness coaches in 2024 and beyond.

Average Income: £26,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Wellness Coach, Health Coach, Fitness Trainer

Education/Certification: A degree in health sciences, nutrition, or kinesiology is common. Certifications like Certified Health Coach (CHC) or National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) are essential.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Empathy, motivational skills, communication

14. Real Estate

Real estate professionals manage, sell, and develop properties, benefiting from commissions and market appreciation. Despite market fluctuations, real estate remains a lucrative field. The rise of proptech and smart buildings will create new opportunities in this field.

Average Income: £39,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Real Estate Agent, Property Manager, Real Estate Developer

Education/Certification: A high school diploma is often sufficient, but obtaining a real estate license is mandatory. Advanced certifications like Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) can lead to higher earnings.

Remote Work Potential: Partially (depends on role)Soft Skill Integration: Negotiation, relationship-building, financial acumen

15. Video Production & Editing

Video production and editing involve creating visual content for various platforms, from film to social media. The demand for video content is rising rapidly and is creating a strong demand for video production and editing professionals.

Average Income: £31,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Video Editor, Film Producer, Multimedia Specialist

Education/Certification: A degree in film, communications, or related fields is common. Certifications from Adobe (e.g., Adobe Certified Expert in Premiere Pro) can enhance skills.

Remote Work Potential: Yes

Soft Skill Integration: Creativity, attention to detail, time management

16. E-commerce & Dropshipping

E-commerce involves managing online stores, while dropshipping is a model where sellers don’t hold inventory, focusing on marketing and customer service instead. Dropshipping and direct-to-consumer models continue to grow in popularity, increasing demand for e-commerce managers.

Average Income: 42,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: E-commerce Manager, Digital Store Owner, Supply Chain Manager

Education/Certification: A degree in business, marketing, or IT can be helpful. Certifications like Shopify Academy or Google Analytics are useful for mastering e-commerce platforms.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Analytical thinking, customer service, digital marketing

17. Public Speaking & Communication

Public speaking and communication involve effectively conveying ideas to an audience, essential for leadership roles and advocacy. As businesses continue to value effective communication, the demand for skilled public speakers and communicators is expected to grow. Virtual presentations and online training will drive this demand further.

Average Income: £46,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Public Speaker, Corporate Trainer, Communications Manager

Education/Certification: Degrees in communications, English, or public relations are common. Certifications like Toastmasters’ Competent Communicator can improve public speaking skills.

Remote Work Potential: Yes

Soft Skill Integration: Confidence, clarity, persuasion

18. Foreign Language Proficiency

Proficiency in foreign languages is crucial for roles in international business, diplomacy, and translation. With globalisation, the need for translators and bilingual professionals is expected to grow by 2031, languages like Mandarin, Spanish, and Arabic are particularly in demand.

Average Income: £35,000 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Translator, Interpreter, International Sales Manager

Education/Certification: A degree in linguistics or a foreign language is typical. Certifications like the ATA Certification (American Translators Association) can enhance job prospects.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Cultural sensitivity, communication, adaptability

19. AR/VR Development

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) development involves creating immersive digital experiences, with applications in gaming, education, and retail. AR/VR development is rapidly expanding beyond gaming into education, healthcare, and retail.

Average Income: £47,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: AR Developer, VR Developer, Game Developer

Education/Certification: A degree in computer science, game design, or a related field is common. Certifications like Unity Certified Developer or Certified VR Developer can be beneficial.

Remote Work Potential: Yes

Soft Skill Integration: Creativity, problem-solving, technical proficiency

20. Social Media Management & Strategy

Social media management involves creating and executing strategies to engage audiences and build brand presence across platforms. The continuous evolution of social platforms and influencer marketing will drive demand for social media strategists.

Average Income: £42,500 per year

Relevant Job Titles: Social Media Manager, Digital Strategist, Content Manager

Education/Certification: A degree in marketing, communications, or journalism is common. Certifications such as Hootsuite Social Marketing Certification or Facebook Blueprint Certification can enhance expertise.

Remote Work Potential: YesSoft Skill Integration: Creativity, communication, strategic thinking

How to choose the right skill for you?

Choosing the right high-income skill to develop depends on several factors:

• Personal Interests: Start by identifying what genuinely interests you. Passion for a subject can sustain your motivation through the challenges of learning.
• Market Demand: Research which skills are in high demand within your industry or in the fields you’re interested in. Look at job postings, industry reports, and salary surveys to get a sense of what employers are looking for.
• Transferability: Consider how transferable a skill is across different industries. Skills like data analysis, project management, and communication are valuable in almost any field.
• Future-Proofing: Choose skills that are likely to remain relevant despite technological advancements. For example, while specific programming languages may evolve, the ability to learn and adapt to new technologies is a timeless skill.
• Learning Curve: Assess the time and resources required to learn the skill. Some skills may require formal education or certification, while others can be self-taught.

How to develop high income skills

Once you’ve identified the skills you want to develop, follow these steps to build expertise:

• Formal Education: Consider enrolling in courses or certification programs offered by universities or online platforms like Janets, Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning. These can provide structured learning and credentials that employers recognize.
• Self-Study: Utilise free resources such as blogs, YouTube tutorials, and open-source projects to learn at your own pace. Self-study is particularly effective for skills like coding or digital marketing.
• Practice and Application: The best way to solidify your skills is by applying them in real-world scenarios. Take on freelance projects, internships, or personal projects to gain hands-on experience.
• Networking and Mentorship: Connect with professionals in your field through networking events, social media, or professional organizations. Finding a mentor can provide valuable guidance and accelerate your learning process.
• Continuous Learning: The job market is constantly evolving, so make a habit of regularly updating your skills. Stay informed about industry trends and new technologies to remain competitive.

Conclusion

And there you have it! The top high income skills that can shape your future in 2024 and beyond. The choice is now yours. Stick with what you know or dive into something new and exciting. The road to mastering a new skill might have a few bumps, but the rewards, higher income, job security, and career satisfaction are worth the effort.

So, choose your preferred high income skill, take the first step, and get ready to thrive in a fast-changing world. Your future success is in your hands. Make it count!