There are many jobs that pay $20 or more hourly that offer flexible schedules that allow you the freedom to work around your life. You have options to earn good money without spending years toward a degree or working more hours than you want.
Many of these $20 an hour jobs only require you to have a high school diploma (no degree!) or equivalent and some you can work online from home.
We’ve put together this list of 31 jobs that pay $20 an hour so that you can start earning money right away and get started on your path to financial freedom.
31 Jobs That Pay $20 An Hour
1. Freelance Writer
If you have a way with words, freelance writing is a great way to make money. You can write articles for websites, create blog posts, or even do copywriting from home, on the go, or even in your pajamas!
The best part is that you have complete control over what you write about and the freelance writing jobs you take. This means you can choose topics that interest you and work with clients you feel comfortable with.
However, while it’s easy to get started freelance writing, there are still some things that freelance writers should be aware of before they jump into this line of work. This introductory training with Earn More Writing will give you details to help you get started with freelance writing.
Average Pay Per Hour: $12 to $30
2. Bookkeeper
Bookkeeping is all the paperwork that has to be done for a business. A bookkeeper keeps track of everything from expenses to sales revenue to payroll checks.
Not sure how to become a bookkeeper? It doesn’t require a degree to become a bookkeeper but it is a good idea to complete certification courses from organizations like the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.
Check out this FREE bookkeeping workshop from Bookkeeper Launch to show you how to start a bookkeeping business.
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 – $25
3. Proofreader
Proofreaders read over a document to identify spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax errors. It’s also an excellent way for anyone who has strong language skills to earn money on the side.
A proofreading job can be any writing, from novels to blogs. They often look for errors in spelling and grammar and inappropriate content.
Want some more information about proofreading? This FREE workshop from Proofread Anywhere will tell you how to start proofreading and making money in no time.
Average Pay Per Hour: $16 to $25
4. Blogger
Check out blogging! It’s worth considering it as an option to make at least $20 an hour.
You can work on your blog whenever (and however) you want and blog about whatever you want. Just make sure to keep your content original and helpful to your readers.
Starting a blog is easy! You can create a website through BlueHost for $2.25 a year and learn how to optimize your blog with this FREE SEO Masterclass to grow your traffic.
The great thing about blogging is that you can make a passive income with it in various ways, including affiliate marketing, selling ad space, or sponsored posts.
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 to $35
5. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant (VA) provides administrative, technical, or other support services to help run a business, things like scheduling appointments, data entry, research, creating website content, writing articles and blog posts for marketing purposes, or performing social media management.
It isn’t hard to become a virtual assistant. It doesn’t require a degree, but many have experience in customer service or administrative work.
A VA can be one of the best high-paying jobs if you have the right skills for the job! There are many full-time opportunities to work from home, but if you’re too sure if being a VA is for you, check out this FREE workbook to become a Fully Booked VA.
Average Pay Per Hour: $10 to $70
6. Repairman/Handyman
A repairman or handyman is someone who specializes in repair and maintenance. Employers don’t typically require a degree but most employers do require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Most repairmen/handymen gain their education from trade school rather than college and start their career quickly upon completing their training.
These tradespeople have an understanding of maintenance and repair knowledge that allows them to conduct jobs such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, painting, and more. Some states require a license for these professionals to operate and conduct business as a handyman – so make sure to check whether your state is one of them!
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 to $22
7. Real Estate Agent
If you like working with people and want a high-paying job without having a college degree, this might be your perfect job!
Real estate agents are professionals who represent clients in the purchase, sale, and rental of properties. They also provide advice on property values and market trends.
A real estate agent is licensed to work independently or as an employee for a brokerage firm or other company, that deals with residential or commercial properties.
Average Pay Per Hour: $25 to $70
8. Social Media Manager
Most social media manager jobs pay $20 per hour. This is an online job that is perfect for someone who loves staying up to date on the latest trends and enjoys communicating with people online.
As a social media manager, you would be responsible for managing the company’s social media accounts, creating content, and creating ads and marketing to bring in new customers.
Average Pay Per Hour: $30 to $55
9. Computer Programer
A computer programmer is a person who researches, designs, develops, and performs programming tasks by writing and maintaining the code of computer programs.
They are involved in every step of the process, from design to testing to implementation on either large mainframe computers or small embedded devices like mobile phones and tablets.
It usually requires a degree through a four-year program in software development, information technology, or computer science.
Average Pay Per Hour: $20 to $45
10. Photographer
Photography is one of the jobs that pay $20 per hour that might be up your alley if you’re looking for something new!
Photographers often have to work odd hours in order to capture the perfect shot. They also have to be very patient, since many people don’t realize that it can take time to capture just the right shot.
You don’t need a degree to become a photographer, but you will need some experience and photos to display your work.
Average Pay Per Hour: $10 to $37
11. Tutor
It’s no secret that tutoring is a great way to make money, but it is also a business that can be started with little to no money upfront. What may not be as well known, however, is how much that money can be. You can potentially earn $20 an hour if they are talented and work hard enough to maintain their clientele.
Tutoring can be done in person, online, or over the phone. Help high school and college students with their homework or teach someone a new language. Tutors also should know the material well enough for their students to learn from them while they’re teaching.
Average Pay Per Hour: $25 to $56
12. Graphic Design
Do you love to create art and design? If so, then being a graphic designer may be a profitable business for you.
Graphic designers create logos, brochures, advertisements, and other graphics that convey a message or sell a product. It’s important to note that there are many different types of graphic designers- some focus on web design while others work with print media.
However they do it, one thing is clear: Graphic Designers make sure that what we see looks good!
Average Pay Per Hour: $18 to $38
13. Plumber
This is one of the best-paying jobs that pay $20 an hour out there, and it’s not too hard to get started. In most states, you must be 18 years old, a college degree is not needed but you do need to have a high school diploma or GED and pass a background check.
If you meet those qualifications, all you need to do is join an apprenticeship program or vocational school, and voila! You’re ready to start working as a plumber!
Average Pay Per Hour: $20 to $40
14. Electrician
Another one of the jobs that pay a median of $20 per hour is an electrician. Electrical systems are installed and maintained by electricians. They also interpret circuit layouts, conduit pathways, or wiring systems diagrams and blueprints.
Electricians typically work on their own but often work with a team of other tradespeople such as carpenters or plumbers under the supervision of a project manager on larger projects (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Average Pay Per Hour: $17 to $33
15. Retail Manager
Some people may see retail work as just a way to get by. But, there are some great benefits and compensation that come with the job. One of those is that it is a job that can pay $20 per hour potentially.
Retail managers don’t need to have a college degree. They enjoy many perks such as bonuses, commissions, and other incentives on top of their salary.
Working in retail also offers opportunities for advancement within the company- especially if you’re willing to put in extra time at your store or branch office.
Average Pay Per Hour: $27 to $36
16. Car Mechanic
If you love cars and enjoy working with your hands, then being a car mechanic might be perfect for you. Car mechanics don’t need a degree but do need to be trained to work on cars.
As a car mechanic, you will repair or replace parts in vehicles like engines, transmissions, suspensions, and brakes. You may also diagnose why certain parts are not functioning correctly.
Average Pay Per Hour: $12 to $27
17. Website Developer
Website development can be anything from designing and coding websites to maintaining existing sites or performing SEO services for clients.
It is usually office-based but is quickly becoming a remote position from home that can also be a side hustle business. This means that people who work as website developers from home must have good communication because they’ll be collaborating closely with other team members most of the time.
Average Pay Per Hour: $18 to $65
18. Transcriptionist
Another one of the jobs that pay $20 an hour is transcriptionist.
Transcriptionists type up conversations and other audio recordings. They work with professionals in many fields, including legal, medical, education, business, and government.
If you’re a good typist (and you don’t mind listening to people talk), transcription could be the perfect gig for you. You’ll need some basic computer skills and an internet connection along with the ability to listen attentively and sit for long periods.
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 to $30
19. Landscaper
Landscaping is an excellent job for those who enjoy working outside and getting their hands dirty from time to time and want a job that pays $20 an hour.
You will need to know how to use tools such as lawnmowers, weed eaters, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws if you want to be successful, though.
Another benefit? Landscape workers have some flexibility in scheduling, so they can often pick up extra work during the weekends if they want to earn more.
Average Pay Per Hour: $13 to $30
20. Fitness Instructor
A fitness instructor’s job may be in a variety of settings.
Some fitness instructors teach yoga or Pilates classes, while others instruct one-on-one or small groups of athletes to participate in particular sports such as running races and triathlons. They may work at gyms, health clubs, schools, parks, community centers, or even people’s homes.
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 to $30
21. Private Investigator
One of the jobs that pay a median of $20 an hour is a private investigator. Private investigators have all sorts of responsibilities.
They may be hired to find missing persons, investigate insurance fraud, or conduct background checks. They typically need a college degree in a related field and must be licensed in most states.
Average Pay Per Hour: $17 to $25
22. Carpenter
Carpentry is a field that requires patience, knowledge, and skill. It takes years of hard work to become a carpenter who can create beautiful pieces of furniture from rough lumber.
The demand for skilled workers is high, and there aren’t enough qualified people to fill all the positions making it one of the jobs that pay a median of $20 an hour.
Average Pay Per Hour: $14 to $28
23. Video Editor
Video editing is the process of selecting, arranging, and assembling shots to create a finished video. This is one job you can use to supplement your income as a side hustle- earning you an extra $1000 a month or more!
Video editors are responsible for producing footage into a cohesive sequence, determining which images to use and how they should be ordered. They also may perform tasks such as adding motion effects, titles, and audio tracks.
Average Pay Per Hour: $27 to $35
24. HVAC Technician
To make $20 an hour as an HVAC Technician, you will likely need some experience in the field.
Many technicians start as apprentices, working their way up to a higher wage. Many HVAC Technician schools can provide you with the education you need to start your career.
Average Pay Per Hour: $11 to $35
25. Interior Designer
Interior design requires creativity, a good eye for color and design, and an understanding of architecture principles.
Interior designers often work in teams with architects, engineers, and other professionals to create beautiful and functional spaces.
Average Pay Per Hour: $19 to $28
26. Paralegal
Paralegals are legal secretaries who work under the direction of a lawyer. They help with legal research, organize paperwork, and prepare for court hearings or trials.
Paralegals are usually trained on the job by more experienced paralegals or lawyers, but you do need a degree to get a foot in the door at any firm.
Average Pay Per Hour: $22 to $35
27. App Developer
Experienced app developers could easily get jobs that pay $20 an hour or more. There are some things you can do a few things to increase your chances of finding a job as an app developer.
First, have a strong portfolio of apps that you’ve developed. You can also join online communities and forums where app developers gather to discuss projects and job opportunities. Finally, keep up with the latest trends in app development to offer your clients innovative solutions.
Average Pay Per Hour: $33 to $59
28. Police Officer
A police officer has many expectations. Their main role is to uphold the law, arrest lawbreakers/criminals, and investigate those cases.
To become a police officer, you will need to apply for an open position with the local department, take physical tests such as pushups and running, take written exams on laws and procedures, undergo background checks, psychological exams, and medical examinations.
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 to $31
29. Bartender
Bartending is a job that people often turn to when they need flexible hours and an enjoyable environment. Bartenders are typically required to have some level of customer service experience and knowledge about drink recipes and how to make them quickly.
After nightly tips, the median could be $20 per hour, but not all bartenders make $20 hourly at every job opportunity.
Average Pay Per Hour: $9 to $13 plus tips
30. Personal Trainer
As long as you have some experience in exercise programs and can instruct individuals or groups of people, being a trainer can be one of the most rewarding jobs out there.
You get paid well for your time, but more importantly, you help people improve their lives and become healthier. Your job also means you can focus on your own health and well-being while helping others!
Average Pay Per Hour: $15 to $44
31. New Energy Technician
Hmm, new energy probably sounds new to you. It’s well-paying, stable, and flexible, but what does this $20 an hour job involve?
It involves installing and maintaining a renewable energy system for clients. There’s a high demand for these jobs as people look to incorporate clean energy into their homes and businesses.
A new energy technician is responsible for ongoing system maintenance, including monitoring performance and installing new components for wind and solar green energy installations when necessary.
Average Pay Per Hour: $20 to $30
Key Takeaways
This blog post has given you some solid job ideas that pay $20 an hour, many of which are high-paying jobs that require no experience!
If you are looking for a new career or want to start a business, this list will give you plenty of options to explore, many of which you may have the education and skills to start today.
So take your time and explore the top jobs that pay $20 per hour that are out there!