The healthcare industry remains one of the strongest and fastest-growing sectors in the U.S. economy. Driven by an aging population, expanded access to care, and ongoing investment in medical services, healthcare offers stable, meaningful career opportunities for both new job seekers and experienced professionals.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034. About 1.9 million openings are expected each year, on average, driven by both new job growth and the need to replace workers who leave the field permanently.
Whether you’re entering the workforce, upskilling, or transitioning from another industry, this overview highlights key in-demand healthcare roles, required education, and what you can expect from the job market today.
Where the Jobs Are: Healthcare
Healthcare continues to see rising demand across hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, dental offices, and medical support organizations. Many roles show strong growth and consistent annual openings, especially in patient care and administrative support.
According to Workforce Solutions’ Where the Jobs Are report, key occupations include:
- Registered Nurses (RNs) — Provide and coordinate patient care, support physicians, and may engage in clinical research.
Median Hourly Wage: $44.68 | Projected Openings: 4,500+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree - Nursing Assistants — Assist patients with daily living tasks, measure vital signs, and support nursing staff in hospitals and long-term care settings.
Median Hourly Wage: $17.14 | Projected Openings: 3,000+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award - Medical Assistants — Perform a blend of clinical tasks (taking vitals, preparing patients) and administrative tasks (scheduling, records management) in outpatient clinics and specialty practices.
Median Hourly Wage: $18.63 | Projected Openings: 2,800+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award - Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants — Manage patient scheduling, medical records, billing, and general administrative operations within healthcare facilities.
Median Hourly Wage: $18.39 | Projected Openings: 1,700+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent - Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LPNs/LVNs) — Deliver basic nursing care under the direction of RNs and physicians, often in long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health settings.
Median Hourly Wage: $28.37 | Projected Openings: 1,200+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award - Medical and Health Services Managers — Oversee daily operations in hospitals, clinics, medical practices, or healthcare organizations. Responsible for budgeting, staffing, regulatory compliance, and efficiency.
Median Hourly Wage: $52.00 | Projected Openings: 1,400+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree - Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary — Teach and train the next generation of healthcare professionals in colleges, medical programs, and professional schools.
Median Hourly Wage: $66.37 | Projected Openings: 1,000+ annually | Education: Doctoral or professional degree - Pharmacy Technicians — Assist pharmacists with preparing prescriptions, managing inventory, and supporting medication safety.
Median Hourly Wage: $20.92 | Projected Openings: 1,000+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent - Dental Assistants — Support dentists during procedures, prepare equipment, take X-rays, and maintain patient records.
Median Hourly Wage: $18.40 | Projected Openings: 1,300+ annually | Education: Postsecondary nondegree award - Occupational Health and Safety Specialists — Promote safety, reduce workplace hazards, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations—often used in hospitals, health systems, and public health agencies.
Median Hourly Wage: $38.46 | Projected Openings: 800+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree
Start Your Career in Healthcare
From patient care to administrative support to clinical instruction, the healthcare industry offers a wide range of fulfilling, high-impact roles. Many positions require short-term training programs or industry certifications, making healthcare accessible to first-time job seekers and career changers alike.
Local community colleges, technical programs, and healthcare employers provide training options designed to prepare workers for high-need roles—including nursing pathways, medical assistant programs, and health administration tracks.
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