Sam SmithCleveland, Ohio, stands as one of the Midwest’s most economically diverse and resilient cities, offering a blend of world-class healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and growing technology sectors. The city’s job market reflects its transformation from an industrial hub into a center of medical innovation and corporate leadership.
This list of the Cleveland metropolitan area’ highest paying jobs highlights the professions driving the region’s prosperity, with salaries based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Salary.com, Glassdoor, and Indeed.
Highest-paying Jobs In Cleveland, Ohio
1. Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists are among Cleveland’s top earners, largely due to the city’s world-renowned medical institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. They administer anesthesia during surgeries, monitor patients’ vital signs, and ensure safety before, during, and after procedures. Their expertise is critical in operating rooms and pain management centers. Long hours, high responsibility, and extensive education make this a demanding but financially rewarding role, with salaries reflecting the specialized medical skills required.
2. Surgeon
Surgeons perform complex medical procedures, from organ transplants to orthopedic repairs. In Cleveland, they thrive thanks to the city’s exceptional hospital network and medical innovation culture. Surgical specialists—particularly cardiovascular and neurosurgeons—earn top salaries due to the precision and life-or-death nature of their work. The role requires years of education, residency training, and continuous certification. Surgeons often work long, unpredictable hours but enjoy immense professional prestige and financial stability.
3. Psychiatrist
Cleveland psychiatrists address mental health conditions ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. With growing awareness of mental wellness, demand for psychiatric services has increased, especially in hospitals and private clinics. Many psychiatrists also consult for behavioral health programs or addiction treatment centers. The role requires empathy, advanced diagnostic ability, and strong communication skills. Extensive education and licensing lead to high earning potential in both hospital and private practice settings.
4. Physician (General)
General physicians, or primary care doctors, are the backbone of Cleveland’s healthcare system. They diagnose, treat, and manage common illnesses while coordinating specialist care for patients. Cleveland’s large hospital networks and suburban clinics create ample opportunities for high-earning practitioners. Their value lies in long-term patient relationships, preventive care, and chronic disease management. While not as highly paid as surgeons, general physicians enjoy steady demand, strong job security, and competitive salaries.
5. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
CEOs oversee strategic direction, growth, and profitability for Cleveland’s many corporations, including giants like Sherwin-Williams, KeyBank, and Progressive. They make high-stakes decisions on finance, operations, and company culture. Success demands exceptional leadership, vision, and business acumen. CEOs often rise through decades of executive experience and manage multimillion-dollar budgets. Compensation includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, making this one of the city’s most lucrative non-medical careers.
6. Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialize in correcting dental misalignments using braces, aligners, and advanced imaging tools. In Cleveland, strong demand for cosmetic and corrective dental care sustains excellent earning potential. Most operate private practices or partnerships. This career requires dental school plus orthodontic residency, but the payoff is substantial—steady clients, flexible schedules, and high profit margins. Cleveland’s large family population ensures ongoing demand for orthodontic treatment and long-term patient relationships.
7. Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Oral surgeons perform complex surgeries involving the jaw, mouth, and facial structures, including wisdom tooth extraction, implants, and trauma repair. Cleveland’s robust dental and hospital networks offer lucrative opportunities, especially through referrals from dentists and emergency units. These specialists undergo years of surgical and dental training, giving them high expertise and income. Their work blends precision medicine and reconstructive artistry, contributing to their top-tier earning status in the region.
8. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
CFOs lead financial strategy for Cleveland’s top corporations, hospitals, and universities. They oversee budgeting, investments, risk management, and long-term growth. With many Fortune 500 and manufacturing firms in the area, skilled CFOs are in high demand. The role requires CPA or MBA credentials, financial foresight, and leadership under pressure. High-level bonuses and stock incentives push total compensation into the upper six-figure range. Strategic decisions often shape an organization’s success or failure.
9. Pediatrician
Pediatricians care for infants, children, and adolescents, monitoring growth, vaccinations, and development. In Cleveland, they work across private practices, hospitals, and community health centers. The city’s family-friendly suburbs keep demand for pediatric care consistently strong. Beyond treating illnesses, pediatricians guide parents on nutrition, safety, and preventive health. Although their hours can be long, they enjoy meaningful work and stable, high incomes, especially when affiliated with major healthcare systems.
10. Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. Many Cleveland dentists operate independent clinics or join dental groups with modern facilities. The city’s high healthcare standards drive strong earning potential for experienced practitioners. With a balance of medical skill and business management, dentists maintain steady income streams through patient loyalty and preventive care. The profession combines autonomy, flexible schedules, and excellent work-life balance.
11. Vice President of Sales
VPs of Sales manage revenue growth, client acquisition, and sales teams for large Cleveland-based corporations. They play a key role in manufacturing, technology, and healthcare product sectors. Success depends on strategic planning, market analysis, and leadership ability. Strong communication and negotiation skills are critical. This role offers high base salaries plus significant bonuses and commissions tied to performance. Effective sales leadership directly impacts a company’s profitability, earning top-tier compensation packages.
12. Law Firm Partner
Law firm partners in Cleveland enjoy substantial income through profit-sharing and client portfolios. They handle complex corporate, real estate, or litigation cases, often representing regional businesses and major hospitals. Becoming a partner requires years of practice, proven client development, and exceptional legal expertise. Many partners also manage junior associates and oversee firm operations. The role offers prestige, influence, and strong financial rewards, particularly in corporate and healthcare law.
13. Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
CMOs guide the clinical strategy and quality standards for hospitals and healthcare systems like Cleveland Clinic and MetroHealth. They balance administrative leadership with medical insight, ensuring patient safety, staff performance, and regulatory compliance. With years of experience as physicians, they transition into executive roles combining medicine and management. Their decisions directly shape healthcare outcomes, innovation, and efficiency—hence the exceptional pay. The CMO role is both demanding and highly respected.
14. Pharmacist
Pharmacists in Cleveland dispense medications, counsel patients, and ensure safe prescription practices. Many work in hospitals, retail pharmacies, or research facilities. The city’s large healthcare ecosystem offers stable, high-paying opportunities. Pharmacists require a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and state licensure. With increasing emphasis on patient education and chronic disease management, pharmacists play a vital healthcare role while earning solid six-figure salaries and maintaining reliable career stability.
15. Software Engineering Manager
Cleveland’s growing tech and industrial automation sectors fuel high demand for software engineering managers. They lead development teams, oversee coding projects, and align software systems with business goals. These professionals combine technical expertise with leadership skills, often managing multimillion-dollar initiatives. Many work for healthcare tech, manufacturing, or financial firms modernizing operations. Salaries reflect their strategic importance in driving innovation, data security, and system efficiency across Cleveland’s digital economy.
16. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are essential members of surgical teams, providing anesthesia care before, during, and after operations. Cleveland’s high surgical volume and advanced hospitals make this one of the city’s most lucrative nursing roles. CRNAs require a master’s or doctoral degree and extensive clinical training. Their responsibilities are high-stakes, demanding precision and calm under pressure. The role offers autonomy, excellent pay, and strong professional respect within the healthcare hierarchy.
17. Vice President of Marketing
VPs of Marketing develop brand strategies, advertising campaigns, and digital initiatives for major Cleveland companies such as Sherwin-Williams and Progressive. They translate market trends into revenue growth through creative direction and data-driven decision-making. Success requires a mix of strategic vision, leadership, and industry insight. Bonuses and performance incentives can be substantial. These executives shape brand identity and customer engagement in competitive markets, securing them high compensation and professional prestige.
18. IT Director
IT Directors oversee all aspects of technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital transformation across corporations and hospitals. In Cleveland, many work in healthcare, banking, and manufacturing sectors that rely on secure, efficient IT systems. They manage teams of engineers, ensure compliance, and implement innovations that enhance productivity. The role demands both technical expertise and leadership skills. With digital operations at the heart of business success, IT Directors earn high salaries and strong job security.
19. Engineering Manager
Engineering Managers supervise technical projects and coordinate multidisciplinary teams across Cleveland’s strong industrial base, including aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing. They ensure designs meet performance, safety, and cost standards. This role bridges engineering precision and business leadership. Years of experience as engineers, often coupled with PE or MBA credentials, are required. High demand for infrastructure modernization and advanced manufacturing ensures top compensation and long-term career stability in Cleveland’s economy.
20. Data Science Manager
Data Science Managers lead analytics teams that turn complex data into business intelligence for companies in finance, healthcare, and logistics. In Cleveland’s evolving digital landscape, they’re instrumental in predictive modeling, machine learning, and strategic planning. Combining technical skill with business acumen, they deliver insights that drive profits and innovation. Demand for this role has surged as firms embrace data-driven decision-making. Competitive pay reflects their value in shaping smart corporate strategies.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Cleveland, OH – Full List
| Rank | Job Title | Estimated Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologist | $340,000 – $490,000+ |
| 2 | Surgeon | $320,000 – $470,000+ |
| 3 | Psychiatrist | $250,000 – $380,000 |
| 4 | Physician (General) | $220,000 – $340,000 |
| 5 | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | $200,000 – $340,000+ |
| 6 | Orthodontist | $190,000 – $300,000 |
| 7 | Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon | $185,000 – $290,000 |
| 8 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $170,000 – $270,000 |
| 9 | Pediatrician | $165,000 – $240,000 |
| 10 | Dentist | $160,000 – $240,000 |
| 11 | Vice President of Sales | $155,000 – $230,000 |
| 12 | Law Firm Partner | $150,000 – $290,000+ |
| 13 | Chief Medical Officer | $145,000 – $220,000 |
| 14 | Pharmacist | $120,000 – $145,000 |
| 15 | Software Engineering Manager | $120,000 – $185,000 |
| 16 | Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | $115,000 – $175,000 |
| 17 | Vice President of Marketing | $115,000 – $185,000 |
| 18 | IT Director | $115,000 – $180,000 |
| 19 | Engineering Manager | $115,000 – $175,000 |
| 20 | Data Science Manager | $110,000 – $170,000 |
| 21 | Optometrist | $105,000 – $165,000 |
| 22 | Chief Information Officer (CIO) | $105,000 – $175,000 |
| 23 | Vice President of Operations | $105,000 – $170,000 |
| 24 | Physician Assistant (PA) | $100,000 – $140,000 |
| 25 | Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $95,000 – $135,000 |
| 26 | Senior Software Engineer | $95,000 – $135,000 |
| 27 | Financial Manager | $95,000 – $145,000 |
| 28 | Supply Chain Director | $95,000 – $150,000 |
| 29 | Construction Manager (Large Projects) | $90,000 – $135,000 |
| 30 | Management Consultant | $90,000 – $135,000 |
| 31 | Civil Engineer (Project Manager) | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 32 | Marketing Director | $85,000 – $130,000 |
| 33 | Human Resources Director | $85,000 – $130,000 |
| 34 | Aerospace Engineer (Senior) | $85,000 – $125,000 |
| 35 | Compensation and Benefits Manager | $83,000 – $125,000 |
| 36 | Database Architect | $83,000 – $125,000 |
| 37 | Actuary (Fellow) | $83,000 – $125,000 |
| 38 | Cybersecurity Engineer | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 39 | Mechanical Engineer (Senior) | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 40 | Electrical Engineer (Senior) | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 41 | Sales Director | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| 42 | Project Manager (IT) | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 43 | Financial Advisor (Senior) | $80,000 – $115,000+ |
| 44 | University Professor (Senior) | $80,000 – $115,000 |
| 45 | Nurse Manager | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 46 | Logistics Manager | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 47 | Procurement Manager | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| 48 | Dental Hygienist | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| 49 | Solutions Architect | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| 50 | Data Engineer | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 51 | Cloud Engineer | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 52 | Commercial Loan Officer | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 53 | Physical Therapist | $70,000 – $95,000 |
| 54 | Software Developer | $65,000 – $100,000 |
| 55 | Occupational Therapist | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 56 | Accountant (CPA, Senior) | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 57 | Physician (Resident) | $50,000 – $60,000 |
| 58 | Web Developer | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 59 | Sales Manager | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 60 | Financial Analyst | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| 61 | Operations Manager | $60,000 – $90,000 |
| 62 | Construction Superintendent | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| 63 | Project Manager (Construction) | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 64 | Civil Engineer (Entry-Mid) | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| 65 | Mechanical Engineer (Entry-Mid) | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| 66 | Electrical Engineer (Entry-Mid) | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| 67 | Data Analyst | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| 68 | Registered Nurse (Staff) | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| 69 | Librarian | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 70 | Social Worker (Licensed) | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 71 | Chef / Head Cook | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| 72 | Restaurant Manager | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 73 | Hotel Manager | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 74 | Real Estate Agent (Residential) | $40,000 – $95,000+ |
| 75 | Insurance Agent | $45,000 – $70,000 |
| 76 | Loan Officer | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| 77 | Claims Adjuster | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 78 | Customer Success Manager | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 79 | Technical Writer | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 80 | Graphic Designer | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 81 | Administrative Services Manager | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| 82 | Cost Estimator | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| 83 | Market Research Analyst | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 84 | Human Resources Specialist | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 85 | Speech-Language Pathologist | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| 86 | Physical Therapist (Staff) | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| 87 | High School Teacher | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 88 | Police Officer | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 89 | Firefighter | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 90 | Paralegal | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 91 | Electrician | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| 92 | Plumber | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| 93 | HVAC Technician | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| 94 | Airline Pilot (First Officer) | $65,000 – $115,000 |
| 95 | Airline Pilot (Captain) | $75,000 – $160,000 |
| 96 | Marine Engineer / Naval Architect | $70,000 – $105,000 |
| 97 | Commercial Real Estate Developer | $75,000 – $145,000+ |
| 98 | Aerospace Engineer (Entry-Mid) | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| 99 | Marketing Manager | $65,000 – $95,000 |
| 100 | Chemical Engineer (Senior) | $85,000 – $125,000 |
Closing
Cleveland’s employment landscape demonstrates how the region’s economy continues to evolve—anchored by its renowned healthcare systems, robust engineering sector, and expanding corporate presence. Professionals in fields like medicine, finance, technology, and executive leadership enjoy exceptional compensation and career stability, supported by a low cost of living that amplifies their earnings potential. Whether pursuing a career in healthcare, technology, or management, Cleveland remains one of the Midwest’s most rewarding cities for high-skilled professionals seeking both opportunity and quality of life.