Sam SmithArkansas may be known for its scenic landscapes and affordable cost of living, but it also offers a surprisingly diverse and lucrative job market. From healthcare and engineering to logistics, finance, and technology, the state provides strong opportunities for professionals seeking financial stability and career growth. In particular, fields such as medicine, law, and management dominate the top tiers of pay, while skilled trades and technical specialists also enjoy solid earnings due to high demand.
This comprehensive list highlights the 100 highest-paying jobs in Arkansas, detailing salary ranges, job security levels, and the reasons behind each profession’s earning potential. Whether you’re a student planning a career path, a professional considering a transition, or simply exploring the economic landscape, this guide offers valuable insight into where the best income opportunities lie in the Natural State.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Arkansas
1. Anesthesiologists
These specialized physicians administer anesthesia and manage patient vital signs during surgery. They are responsible for preoperative evaluation, intraoperative care, and postoperative pain control. Requiring extensive medical training, including medical school, a residency, and often a fellowship, they bear significant responsibility for patient safety, justifying their position among the state’s top earners in major hospital systems.
2. Surgeons
Surgeons perform operations to treat diseases, injuries, and deformities. They lead surgical teams, making critical decisions in high-stakes environments. This career demands exceptional precision, deep medical knowledge, and the ability to manage complex procedures. Their extensive education and the immense pressure of the role place them at the very top of the earning scale in Arkansas’s healthcare sector.
3. Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)
These physicians specialize in women’s reproductive health, including childbirth, prenatal care, and surgical procedures like cesarean sections and hysterectomies. They provide essential, lifelong care from puberty through menopause. The combination of surgical skill, clinical expertise, and the high-risk nature of delivering babies makes this a highly demanding and well-compensated field within the state.
4. Psychiatrists
As medical doctors specializing in mental health, psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental illnesses through therapy, medication, and other interventions. They manage complex conditions like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Their unique ability to prescribe psychotropic medications and their medical expertise differentiates them from psychologists, placing them among Arkansas’s highest-paid professionals.
5. Family Medicine Physicians
These primary care doctors provide comprehensive health care for individuals and families across all ages. They are often the first point of contact for patients, managing chronic conditions, performing routine check-ups, and making specialist referrals. Their critical role in community health, especially in rural areas, commands a high salary.
6. Internists
Internal medicine physicians, or internists, specialize in the diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of adult diseases. They are experts in managing complex, multi-system illnesses and often serve as primary care physicians for adults. Their deep knowledge of internal medicine and their role in treating severe chronic conditions ensure high earnings.
7. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
These highly specialized dentists perform complex surgeries on the mouth, jaws, and face. Procedures include tooth extractions (like wisdom teeth), dental implants, and corrective jaw surgery. Their work requires additional years of hospital-based surgical residency after dental school, blending medical and dental expertise for a top-tier salary.
8. Chief Executives (CEOs, CFOs, COOs)
These top-tier corporate leaders set strategic direction and oversee overall operations for companies. In Arkansas, home to Fortune 500 giants like Walmart and Tyson Foods, these roles carry immense responsibility for financial performance, corporate culture, and market strategy, resulting in compensation packages that rank among the highest in any field.
9. Architectural and Engineering Managers
These professionals plan, coordinate, and direct activities in architectural and engineering companies. They lead teams of engineers and architects on complex projects, managing budgets, timelines, and technical specifications. Their role requires deep technical expertise coupled with strong business and leadership skills, making them vital to Arkansas’s manufacturing and construction industries.
10. Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)
CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia without direct physician supervision. They work autonomously in various settings, providing critical care before, during, and after procedures. This high level of responsibility, combined with a demanding Master’s or Doctoral-level education, makes this one of the highest-paying nursing professions in Arkansas.
11. Pharmacists
These healthcare professionals dispense prescription medications and advise patients on their safe use. They work in retail, hospitals, and clinics, ensuring drug therapy effectiveness and checking for interactions. Their doctoral-level education (Pharm.D.) and critical role in patient safety and healthcare management secure their position as top earners.
12. Podiatrists
Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs) diagnose and treat medical and surgical conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They perform surgeries, treat infections, and manage conditions related to diabetes and sports injuries. Their specialized surgical medical training places them among Arkansas’s well-compensated healthcare providers.
13. Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
These professionals are responsible for navigating and operating aircraft to transport passengers and cargo safely. The role demands rigorous training, extensive flight hours, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Major cargo carriers like FedEx and Amazon Air create high-paying opportunities for aviators in the state.
14. Physician Assistants (PAs)
PAs are medical professionals who diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and often serve as a patient’s principal healthcare provider. They work under the supervision of physicians but with a high degree of autonomy. Their Master’s-level education and versatility in various medical specialties lead to high demand and strong salaries.
15. Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
NPs are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty healthcare. They can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications, often operating their own clinics in collaboration with physicians. Their advanced education and ability to improve healthcare access, particularly in rural Arkansas, make them highly valued and well-paid.
16. Optometrists
These eye doctors perform vision tests, diagnose sight problems, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system. They prescribe glasses, contact lenses, and medications. Holding a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, they run private practices or work in healthcare networks, earning a high income for their specialized care.
17. Veterinarians
These medical professionals diagnose, treat, and research diseases and injuries in animals. Their work ranges from companion pets to livestock, which is crucial in Arkansas’s significant agricultural sector. The required Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and the responsibility for animal health and food safety justify their high earnings.
18. Physical Therapists
PTs help patients improve movement and manage pain after injuries or illnesses. They develop individualized recovery plans using exercises, stretching, and hands-on therapy. Their doctoral-level education (DPT) and essential role in rehabilitation within hospitals, clinics, and sports facilities make this a high-paying, in-demand career in Arkansas.
19. Occupational Therapists
OTs help patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities develop or recover the skills needed for daily living and working. They use therapeutic exercises and adaptive equipment. Their Master’s or Doctoral-level training and critical role in helping people regain independence lead to strong compensation and job growth.
20. Speech-Language Pathologists
These specialists diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. They work in schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Their Master’s degree and certification, combined with their expertise in a critical area of rehabilitative medicine, place them among the state’s higher-paid healthcare professionals.
The Complete Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Arkansas
| # | Job Title | Estimated Salary Range | Job Security | Key Notes & Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologists | $230,000 – $350,000+ | Very High | Top of the medical field. Requires extensive residency and certification. Critical for surgical centers. |
| 2 | Surgeons | $220,000 – $340,000+ | Very High | Specialized surgical skill demands premium compensation. High stakes and long training period. |
| 3 | Obstetricians and Gynecologists | $210,000 – $310,000+ | Very High | Essential surgical and primary care for women. High malpractice costs offset by high demand. |
| 4 | Psychiatrists | $200,000 – $280,000+ | Very High | Critical shortage area, especially in rural states. Ability to prescribe medication ensures high demand. |
| 5 | Family Medicine Physicians | $190,000 – $260,000+ | Very High | Foundation of primary care. High demand statewide, with incentives for rural practice. |
| 6 | Internists | $190,000 – $250,000+ | Very High | Specialists in adult medicine. Manage complex diseases, leading to high compensation. |
| 7 | Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons | $200,000 – $300,000+ | High | Blend of medical and dental surgery. Requires highly specialized residency after dental school. |
| 8 | Chief Executives | $150,000 – $400,000+ | Medium | Highly variable. Tied to company performance. High in corporate centers like Bentonville. |
| 9 | Architectural and Engineering Managers | $130,000 – $170,000 | High | Lead technical teams. Crucial for Arkansas’s manufacturing and construction industries. |
| 10 | Nurse Anesthetists | $170,000 – $210,000 | Very High | Advanced practice nurses with high autonomy. Critical for hospital surgical services. |
| 11 | Pharmacists | $120,000 – $150,000 | High | Doctorate-level role. Demand remains steady in retail, hospitals, and clinics. |
| 12 | Podiatrists | $120,000 – $160,000 | High | Surgical specialists for foot/ankle. Important for diabetic care and sports medicine. |
| 13 | Airline Pilots, Copilots | $110,000 – $180,000+ | High | High training requirements and responsibility. Major cargo hubs in AR create demand. |
| 14 | Physician Assistants | $110,000 – $140,000 | Very High | High demand for cost-effective primary care. Versatile across all medical specialties. |
| 15 | Nurse Practitioners | $105,000 – $135,000 | Very High | Key solution for primary care shortages. Can run clinics independently in many cases. |
| 16 | Optometrists | $100,000 – $130,000 | High | Doctorate-level eye care. Stable demand from aging population and chronic conditions like diabetes. |
| 17 | Veterinarians | $95,000 – $130,000+ | High | Crucial for both companion animals and the state’s large livestock industry. |
| 18 | Physical Therapists | $85,000 – $105,000 | Very High | Doctorate-level role. High demand due to aging population and sports medicine. |
| 19 | Occupational Therapists | $80,000 – $100,000 | Very High | Essential for rehabilitation. Strong demand in schools, hospitals, and geriatric care. |
| 20 | Speech-Language Pathologists | $75,000 – $95,000 | Very High | Critical for rehab and educational services. Consistent demand across multiple settings. |
Other High-Paying Jobs in Arkansas (Continued — #21–50)
| # | Job Title | Estimated Salary Range | Job Security | Key Notes & Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | Marketing Managers | $110,000 – $150,000+ | High | Drive revenue and brand strategy. Especially high-paying at Fortune 500 HQs. |
| 22 | Sales Managers | $105,000 – $145,000+ | High | Directly tied to company income. Critical in logistics, retail, and manufacturing. |
| 23 | Financial Managers | $100,000 – $140,000+ | Very High | Manage corporate financial health. A stable, essential role in every industry. |
| 24 | Human Resources Managers | $95,000 – $130,000 | High | Vital for talent management and compliance. Stable demand in corporate settings. |
| 25 | Compensation & Benefits Managers | $95,000 – $125,000 | High | Specialized role crucial for attracting and retaining talent in a competitive market. |
| 26 | Actuaries | $90,000 – $120,000 | Very High | High demand for managing risk in insurance and finance. Requires rigorous certification. |
| 27 | Lawyers | $85,000 – $150,000+ | Medium | Varies by specialty. Corporate, healthcare, and intellectual property law pay best. |
| 28 | Financial Analysts | $75,000 – $100,000 | High | Key for business and investment decisions. Strong demand in corporate and financial services. |
| 29 | Management Analysts | $75,000 – $105,000 | High | Companies constantly seek efficiency. Consulting roles are project-based but plentiful. |
| 30 | Purchasing Managers | $80,000 – $110,000 | Medium-High | Crucial for supply chain and cost control, especially in manufacturing. |
| 31 | Computer/Information Systems Managers | $115,000 – $155,000 | Very High | Every company relies on tech. This role is critical for infrastructure and strategy. |
| 32 | Petroleum Engineers | $105,000 – $145,000 | Medium | Tied to volatile energy market. Pay is high, but security depends on oil/gas prices. |
| 33 | Chemical Engineers | $90,000 – $120,000 | High | Strong presence in Arkansas’s chemical and food processing industries. |
| 34 | Electrical Engineers | $85,000 – $115,000 | High | Needed for power systems, electronics, and manufacturing. Consistent demand. |
| 35 | Mechanical Engineers | $80,000 – $110,000 | High | Broad field with applications in aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. Stable. |
| 36 | Industrial Engineers | $75,000 – $100,000 | High | Focus on efficiency. Highly valued in Arkansas’s logistics and manufacturing sectors. |
| 37 | Civil Engineers | $75,000 – $100,000 | Very High | Constant need for infrastructure (roads, bridges). Funded by public and private works. |
| 38 | Software Developers | $75,000 – $115,000 | Very High | Extremely high demand across all industries. Remote work opportunities expand prospects. |
| 39 | Data Scientists | $85,000 – $120,000 | Very High | One of the fastest-growing fields. Crucial for data-driven decision-making. |
| 40 | Information Security Analysts | $80,000 – $110,000 | Very High | Cybersecurity threats are constant and growing. Exceptional job security. |
| 41 | Air Traffic Controllers | $95,000 – $130,000+ | High | Federal job with intense training. High stress but excellent pay and benefits. |
| 42 | Elevator Installers/Repairers | $70,000 – $95,000 | High | Skilled trade with high licensing barriers. Constant need for maintenance and new construction. |
| 43 | Power Plant Operators | $65,000 – $90,000 | High | Essential role for community infrastructure. Requires specialized training but is very stable. |
| 44 | Radiation Therapists | $75,000 – $95,000 | High | Specialized healthcare role in cancer treatment. Demand grows with an aging population. |
| 45 | Nuclear Medicine Technologists | $70,000 – $90,000 | High | Specialized diagnostic imaging role. Stable within hospital and clinical settings. |
| 46 | Commercial Pilots | $65,000 – $100,000+ | Medium-High | Varies widely (cargo, tourism, agriculture). Strong in logistics but can be cyclical. |
| 47 | Police Supervisors | $60,000 – $85,000 | High | Management-level public service roles with strong benefits and pension plans. |
| 48 | Detectives/Criminal Investigators | $55,000 – $80,000 | High | Federal and state-level roles offer strong job security and government benefits. |
| 49 | Construction Managers | $70,000 – $100,000 | Medium-High | Tied to the health of the construction industry. Can be cyclical but always in demand for projects. |
| 50 | Farm Managers | $60,000 – $90,000+ | Medium | Highly dependent on commodity prices and weather. Can be lucrative for successful operations. |
Important Jobs in Arkansas (Continued — #51–75)
| # | Job Title | Estimated Salary Range | Job Security | Key Notes & Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | Personal Financial Advisors | $70,000 – $100,000 | High | Growing demand for retirement and wealth management. Often commission-based. |
| 52 | Accountants and Auditors | $65,000 – $90,000 | Very High | Essential for all businesses. CPAs and corporate accountants earn a significant premium. |
| 53 | Credit Analysts | $60,000 – $85,000 | High | Key roles in banking and financial services. Demand tied to lending activity. |
| 54 | Loan Officers | $65,000 – $95,000 | Medium-High | Highly dependent on the real estate and interest rate environment. Can be commission-based. |
| 55 | Logisticians | $65,000 – $85,000 | High | Backbone of Arkansas’s massive transportation and logistics sector. Stable corporate demand. |
| 56 | Cost Estimators | $60,000 – $80,000 | High | Vital for profitable operations in construction, manufacturing, and government contracting. |
| 57 | Technical Sales Representatives | $75,000 – $110,000+ | Medium-High | High earning potential with commission. Tied to performance and industry health. |
| 58 | Registered Nurses | $60,000 – $85,000 | Very High | Constant, critical demand. Specialized ICU, ER, or OR nurses can earn at the top end. |
| 59 | Dental Hygienists | $70,000 – $90,000 | High | High pay for an associate degree. Consistent demand for preventive dental care. |
| 60 | Diagnostic Medical Sonographers | $65,000 – $85,000 | High | Specialized imaging skill. Essential for obstetrics, cardiology, and radiology departments. |
| 61 | Radiologic Technologists | $55,000 – $75,000 | High | Core members of the medical imaging team. Stable hospital and clinic employment. |
| 62 | Clinical Laboratory Technologists | $55,000 – $75,000 | High | Perform essential diagnostic tests. Steady demand in labs and hospitals. |
| 63 | Biochemists/Biophysicists | $75,000 – $100,000 | Medium | Often require PhD. Roles in research, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals can be competitive. |
| 64 | Epidemiologists | $70,000 – $95,000 | Medium | Public health roles. Demand can be project-dependent or tied to government funding. |
| 65 | Environmental Scientists | $60,000 – $80,000 | Medium-High | Work in consulting, government, and for large corporations on compliance and sustainability. |
| 66 | Computer Systems Analysts | $75,000 – $95,000 | High | Bridge between business and IT. Crucial for implementing and optimizing technology. |
| 67 | Network/Computer Systems Administrators | $70,000 – $90,000 | High | Responsible for core IT infrastructure. Constant need for maintenance and security. |
| 68 | Web Developers | $60,000 – $85,000 | High | Front-end, back-end, and full-stack developers are in high demand for businesses of all sizes. |
| 69 | Database Administrators | $80,000 – $105,000 | High | Manage and organize critical company data. Specialized skill with high responsibility. |
| 70 | Computer Programmers | $65,000 – $90,000 | Medium-High | Role is evolving but remains critical for writing and maintaining code for specific applications. |
| 71 | Environmental Engineers | $75,000 – $95,000 | High | Focus on water/wastewater, pollution control, and site remediation. Growing field. |
| 72 | Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technicians | $55,000 – $75,000 | High | Hands-on role supporting engineering projects. Vital in manufacturing and utilities. |
| 73 | Mechanical Engineering Technicians | $50,000 – $70,000 | High | Support design, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical devices and systems. |
| 74 | Electrical Power-Line Installers/Repairers | $65,000 – $85,000 | High | High-skilled, high-risk trade. Essential for utility infrastructure, with strong union presence. |
| 75 | Industrial Machinery Mechanics | $50,000 – $70,000 | High | Keep production lines running. High demand in Arkansas’s manufacturing sector. |
| # | Job Title | Estimated Salary Range | Job Security | Key Notes & Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | Elevator Installers and Repairers | $75,000 – $100,000 | High | Specialized technical trade with strong union representation. Physically demanding but lucrative. |
| 77 | Construction Managers | $75,000 – $110,000 | High | Oversee major building projects. Income rises sharply with experience and project scale. |
| 78 | Architects | $70,000 – $95,000 | Medium-High | Design and supervise buildings. Requires licensure; income depends on project complexity. |
| 79 | Urban and Regional Planners | $65,000 – $90,000 | Medium | Govern land use and city development. Demand tied to local government projects. |
| 80 | Real Estate Brokers | $70,000 – $120,000+ | Medium-High | Commission-based income; top earners in commercial real estate earn six figures. |
| 81 | Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers | $60,000 – $85,000 | High | Manage rental and community properties. Stable returns in growing housing markets. |
| 82 | Insurance Underwriters | $65,000 – $90,000 | High | Assess and manage financial risk. Stable corporate positions with benefits. |
| 83 | Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators | $55,000 – $75,000 | High | Core roles in the insurance industry. Consistent work volume and security. |
| 84 | Purchasing Managers | $75,000 – $105,000 | High | Manage procurement and supply contracts for organizations; critical in manufacturing. |
| 85 | Human Resources Managers | $80,000 – $110,000 | Very High | Oversee workforce strategy and compliance. Core leadership function in large organizations. |
| 86 | Training and Development Managers | $75,000 – $100,000 | High | Manage employee growth and upskilling. Demand rising with corporate talent retention goals. |
| 87 | Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $70,000 – $100,000 | Medium-High | Shape public image and donor outreach for businesses and nonprofits. |
| 88 | Marketing Specialists and Analysts | $60,000 – $85,000 | High | Data-driven role crucial for business strategy. Salaries grow rapidly with experience. |
| 89 | Graphic Designers | $50,000 – $70,000 | Medium | Creative professionals in marketing, media, and web design. Freelance work is common. |
| 90 | Writers and Editors | $50,000 – $75,000 | Medium | Content creation and communication roles. Pay varies widely by employer and niche. |
| 91 | Interpreters and Translators | $45,000 – $65,000 | Medium | Growing demand in healthcare, legal, and business settings. Fluency-based income potential. |
| 92 | Occupational Health and Safety Specialists | $65,000 – $85,000 | High | Ensure workplace safety compliance. Critical in construction and manufacturing. |
| 93 | Fire Inspectors and Investigators | $60,000 – $80,000 | High | Enforce fire codes and investigate incidents. Steady government roles with benefits. |
| 94 | Police Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $65,000 – $95,000 | Very High | Law enforcement specialists with risk and experience-based pay increases. |
| 95 | First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $70,000 – $100,000 | Very High | Senior law enforcement leadership roles with pension benefits and job stability. |
| 96 | Correctional Institution Managers | $60,000 – $85,000 | High | Manage prison and correctional facilities. Stressful but steady government role. |
| 97 | Transportation Inspectors | $65,000 – $90,000 | High | Regulate and ensure safety compliance in freight and passenger transport. |
| 98 | Commercial Pilots (Non-Airline) | $80,000 – $120,000 | Medium-High | Charter, crop-dusting, and corporate pilots earn high pay with variable schedules. |
| 99 | Flight Instructors | $60,000 – $85,000 | Medium | Instruct new pilots at academies or universities. Pay depends on experience and flight hours. |
| 100 | Power Plant Operators | $70,000 – $100,000 | High | Monitor and maintain energy production. Excellent stability and benefits in utilities. |
Closing
The Arkansas job market blends opportunity with balance — offering solid salaries in sectors that value skill, education, and experience. While major metropolitan areas like Little Rock and Fayetteville lead in professional and technical careers, rural regions also provide strong pay for healthcare workers, educators, and tradespeople. Ultimately, the highest-paying roles reward specialized expertise, leadership ability, and consistent performance across industries.
From surgeons and executives to engineers and power plant operators, these 100 jobs reflect the state’s evolving economy — one that continues to grow through innovation, infrastructure, and investment. For Arkansans ready to aim higher, the possibilities are not just promising — they’re well within reach.