Georgia’s diverse and dynamic economy is powered by Atlanta — one of the Southeast’s most influential business hubs — along with growing centers like Savannah, Augusta, and Athens. The state’s high-paying jobs reflect its strengths in logistics, healthcare, information technology, corporate management, and aviation. With numerous Fortune 500 headquarters, including Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, Home Depot, and UPS, Georgia offers exceptional executive and professional opportunities.

Salaries across the state vary based on experience, qualifications, and location, with top-tier roles in medicine, technology, and finance commanding six-figure incomes and beyond. For professionals seeking career growth, Georgia provides both lucrative compensation and a relatively moderate cost of living compared to major coastal cities.

Highest-paying Jobs in Georgia – The Top Earners

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

CEOs oversee all strategic and operational functions of a company, making critical decisions that determine profitability, growth, and market position. In Georgia, many lead major corporations headquartered in Atlanta, such as Coca-Cola, Delta, and UPS. Their high compensation reflects immense responsibility, decision-making authority, and performance pressure. Success in this role demands strong leadership, financial acumen, and the ability to drive long-term business vision in a competitive and rapidly evolving economy.

2. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

CFOs manage all financial aspects of an organization, including planning, reporting, budgeting, and investor relations. Georgia’s numerous corporate headquarters rely on experienced CFOs to maintain financial stability and growth. They ensure compliance with regulations, oversee audits, and guide long-term fiscal strategy. Salaries are high because the role requires expert analytical skills, risk management, and decision-making that directly impact shareholder value, company performance, and the organization’s overall strategic direction.

3. Chief Operating Officer (COO)

COOs oversee daily business operations, ensuring departments function efficiently to meet corporate objectives. In Georgia’s logistics-driven economy, COOs are critical in optimizing supply chains, production, and workforce performance. They often translate executive strategy into actionable results, coordinating between senior leadership and operations teams. The role’s complexity and influence on company success justify its high salary, reflecting the COO’s responsibility for productivity, quality control, and profit margins across multiple divisions.

4. Chief Information Officer (CIO)

CIOs direct a company’s information technology strategy, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. In Georgia’s growing “Silicon Peach” tech ecosystem, CIOs are vital for digital transformation and innovation. They oversee IT budgets, data security, and system modernization to align technology with business goals. High pay reflects their strategic importance in maintaining operational resilience, managing digital risk, and leveraging emerging technologies such as AI and cloud computing to give companies a competitive advantage.

5. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

CTOs lead technology development and innovation, driving product design, engineering, and technical strategy. Georgia’s tech startups and Fortune 500 firms alike depend on CTOs to manage R&D, implement new systems, and ensure scalability. The position’s compensation reflects its importance in maintaining technical competitiveness, managing complex development teams, and integrating advanced technologies. In fast-moving sectors like fintech and logistics tech, CTOs shape future growth by aligning technology with corporate vision.

6. Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

CMOs oversee all marketing, branding, and communication strategies, ensuring that a company’s message resonates with consumers. In Georgia’s competitive corporate landscape, CMOs are key to driving revenue growth and market share. They manage advertising campaigns, market research, and digital engagement across multiple platforms. High pay reflects the pressure to generate measurable business results and maintain brand dominance in industries ranging from consumer goods to technology and professional services.

7. Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)

CHROs lead human capital strategy, overseeing recruitment, training, compensation, and workplace culture. In Georgia’s expanding corporate environment, these executives ensure companies attract and retain top talent while maintaining compliance and diversity standards. Their influence extends across all departments, shaping workforce performance and employee satisfaction. High salaries reflect the strategic value of effective talent management, leadership development, and alignment of human resources with overall business goals and productivity.

8. Chief Legal Officer / General Counsel

General Counsels manage all legal matters, including compliance, contracts, mergers, and litigation. In Georgia, where many corporations face complex regulatory environments, this role is crucial for risk management and strategic planning. They provide executive advice on high-stakes legal and business decisions. Their pay reflects the deep legal expertise required to protect corporate interests, minimize liability, and guide ethical business practices in a competitive and highly regulated market.

9. Vice President (VP) of Operations

VPs of Operations oversee company processes to ensure efficiency, profitability, and alignment with strategic goals. In Georgia’s diverse industries—manufacturing, logistics, and services—they manage large teams and optimize production systems. Their high earnings reflect the responsibility of maintaining operational excellence, reducing costs, and ensuring smooth interdepartmental collaboration. They translate executive vision into measurable results, playing a vital role in driving organizational growth and long-term business success.

10. Managing Director

Managing Directors supervise business units or entire organizations, focusing on profitability, client satisfaction, and strategic performance. In Georgia’s fast-growing business landscape, they often lead major divisions of financial, consulting, or tech firms. Their high pay reflects accountability for budgets, market performance, and team leadership. Success requires strong business insight, decision-making, and communication skills to align corporate strategy with operational execution and sustainable competitive advantage.

11. Surgeon

Surgeons perform complex medical procedures requiring precision, expertise, and years of specialized training. In Georgia, top surgeons in neurosurgery, cardiovascular, or orthopedic specialties earn exceptionally high salaries due to skill demand and liability risks. They work in major hospitals like Emory or Piedmont, handling life-saving operations daily. Compensation reflects the intense education, high responsibility, and physical and emotional demands associated with performing delicate and high-risk medical procedures.

12. Physician / Specialist

Specialist physicians—such as cardiologists, anesthesiologists, and dermatologists—provide advanced medical care requiring deep expertise and board certification. In Georgia, strong healthcare systems and aging populations drive high demand. These doctors earn top salaries due to years of education, diagnostic precision, and the critical nature of their work. They play vital roles in preventing and treating complex illnesses, often balancing clinical duties with research and patient education responsibilities.

13. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental health disorders using a combination of therapy and medication. In Georgia, growing awareness of mental health has expanded demand for psychiatric services across hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Their high income reflects the need for specialized medical training and the complexity of mental health care. They address conditions such as anxiety, depression, and addiction, making their role vital in promoting emotional and societal well-being.

14. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

These dental specialists perform surgical procedures on the face, mouth, and jaw, often addressing trauma, disease, or cosmetic needs. Georgia’s expanding healthcare and cosmetic markets ensure strong demand. High compensation reflects their dual qualifications in dentistry and surgery, the technical precision required, and the high-risk nature of procedures. They often collaborate with hospitals and dental practices, combining surgical expertise with patient-care management in complex oral conditions.

15. Orthodontist

Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and correcting dental alignment issues, using braces, retainers, and other treatments. In Georgia, high patient demand for aesthetic dental care contributes to their strong earning potential. Their work improves both function and appearance, requiring years of advanced education and precise technical skill. Orthodontists’ high salaries reflect patient-driven markets, specialized expertise, and the growing popularity of cosmetic dental solutions across urban and suburban areas.

16. Physician (General Practice)

General Practitioners (GPs) provide essential primary care, diagnosing and treating a broad range of conditions while coordinating specialist referrals. In Georgia, they are especially important in both urban clinics and underserved rural areas. Their income reflects their critical role in preventive medicine and ongoing patient care. Strong interpersonal skills, long hours, and broad medical knowledge make this a respected, stable, and well-compensated healthcare profession statewide.

17. Pediatrician

Pediatricians care for infants, children, and adolescents, monitoring development and treating illness. In Georgia, they work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, often forming lifelong relationships with families. Their salaries reflect their specialized training, patience, and diagnostic skills in managing childhood diseases and developmental issues. They play a vital role in community health, providing preventive care, vaccinations, and medical guidance that ensure long-term well-being for young patients.

18. Podiatrist

Podiatrists diagnose and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower limb. In Georgia, where diabetes and sports injuries are common, their expertise is in high demand. They perform surgeries, design orthotics, and help patients maintain mobility. Their compensation reflects the specialized medical and surgical training required and their crucial role in preventive care. Podiatrists often work in private practices or collaborate with hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

19. Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications, advise on drug interactions, and ensure patient safety. In Georgia’s healthcare system, they play a central role across hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies. Their high salaries reflect deep pharmaceutical knowledge, precision, and accountability for patient outcomes. They bridge the gap between physicians and patients, providing guidance on safe medication use and dosage, particularly as prescription complexity and chronic health conditions continue to increase statewide.

20. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists administer anesthesia during surgeries and medical procedures. They are among the highest-paid nursing professionals in Georgia, working in hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient facilities. Their high earnings reflect their advanced clinical training, precision under pressure, and the critical nature of their role in patient safety. CRNAs collaborate closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists, ensuring stable anesthesia management and pain control throughout complex procedures.

Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Georgia (USA)

#	Job Title	Industry / Category	Estimated Salary Range (USD)
1	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$250,000 – $600,000+
2	Chief Financial Officer (CFO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$200,000 – $400,000+
3	Chief Operating Officer (COO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$190,000 – $350,000+
4	Chief Information Officer (CIO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$180,000 – $320,000+
5	Chief Technology Officer (CTO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$170,000 – $300,000+
6	Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$165,000 – $280,000+
7	Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)	Executive & C-Suite Management	$160,000 – $270,000+
8	Chief Legal Officer / General Counsel	Executive & C-Suite Management	$180,000 – $350,000+
9	Vice President (VP) of Operations	Executive & C-Suite Management	$150,000 – $250,000+
10	Managing Director	Executive & C-Suite Management	$160,000 – $300,000+
11	Surgeon (Neurosurgery, Cardiovascular, etc.)	Medical & Healthcare	$300,000 – $550,000+
12	Physician / Specialist (Cardiologist, etc.)	Medical & Healthcare	$250,000 – $400,000+
13	Psychiatrist	Medical & Healthcare	$230,000 – $350,000+
14	Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon	Medical & Healthcare	$220,000 – $350,000+
15	Orthodontist	Medical & Healthcare	$210,000 – $330,000+
16	Physician (General Practice)	Medical & Healthcare	$200,000 – $300,000+
17	Pediatrician	Medical & Healthcare	$190,000 – $280,000+
18	Podiatrist	Medical & Healthcare	$150,000 – $230,000+
19	Pharmacist	Medical & Healthcare	$125,000 – $150,000+
20	Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)	Medical & Healthcare	$180,000 – $250,000+
21	Law Firm Partner	Legal Professions	$200,000 – $500,000+
22	General Counsel	Legal Professions	$170,000 – $300,000+
23	Judge / Magistrate	Legal Professions	$150,000 – $220,000+
24	Lawyer	Legal Professions	$130,000 – $200,000+
25	Patent Attorney	Legal Professions	$140,000 – $230,000+
26	Investment Banker (Director/VP)	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$160,000 – $350,000+
27	Financial Manager / Director	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$130,000 – $220,000+
28	Actuary (Fellow)	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$120,000 – $190,000+
29	Portfolio Manager	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$130,000 – $250,000+
30	Chief Investment Officer (CIO)	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$180,000 – $320,000+
31	Treasury Manager / Director	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$115,000 – $180,000+
32	Financial Analyst (Senior)	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$95,000 – $140,000+
33	Personal Financial Advisor (Senior)	Finance, Investment & Actuarial	$100,000 – $180,000+
34	IT Director / Manager	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$130,000 – $210,000+
35	Cloud Architect	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$125,000 – $190,000+
36	Cybersecurity Manager / Analyst (Lead)	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$120,000 – $185,000+
37	Data Scientist (Principal/Lead)	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$115,000 – $175,000+
38	DevOps Engineer (Lead)	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$110,000 – $170,000+
39	Software Development Manager	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$120,000 – $190,000+
40	Enterprise Architect	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$130,000 – $200,000+
41	AI / Machine Learning Engineer	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$115,000 – $170,000+
42	Network Architect	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$110,000 – $165,000+
43	IT Security Director (CISO)	IT, Software & Cybersecurity	$160,000 – $250,000+
44	Engineering Manager	Engineering & Architecture	$130,000 – $190,000+
45	Petroleum Engineer	Engineering & Architecture	$125,000 – $180,000+
46	Chemical Engineer (Senior)	Engineering & Architecture	$110,000 – $155,000+
47	Aerospace Engineer	Engineering & Architecture	$105,000 – $150,000+
48	Electrical Engineer (Senior)	Engineering & Architecture	$100,000 – $145,000+
49	Computer Hardware Engineer	Engineering & Architecture	$105,000 – $150,000+
50	Civil Engineer (Senior/Manager)	Engineering & Architecture	$95,000 – $140,000+
51	Architect (Senior/Principal)	Engineering & Architecture	$95,000 – $140,000+
52	Mechanical Engineer (Senior)	Engineering & Architecture	$95,000 – $135,000+
53	Industrial Engineer (Manager)	Engineering & Architecture	$100,000 – $145,000+
54	Sales Director / VP of Sales	Sales & Marketing	$140,000 – $250,000+
55	Business Development Manager	Sales & Marketing	$115,000 – $190,000+
56	Marketing Director	Sales & Marketing	$110,000 – $180,000+
57	Pharmaceutical Sales Director	Sales & Marketing	$120,000 – $200,000+
58	Technical Sales Manager	Sales & Marketing	$105,000 – $165,000+
59	Channel Sales Director	Sales & Marketing	$100,000 – $160,000+
60	Airline Pilot / Copilot / Flight Engineer	Aviation & Logistics	$150,000 – $300,000+
61	Air Traffic Controller	Aviation & Logistics	$110,000 – $160,000+
62	Supply Chain Manager / Director	Aviation & Logistics	$100,000 – $170,000+
63	Logistics Manager / Director	Aviation & Logistics	$95,000 – $155,000+
64	Aviation Manager	Aviation & Logistics	$105,000 – $160,000+
65	Management Consultant (Senior/Partner)	Consulting & HR	$120,000 – $250,000+
66	Compensation & Benefits Manager	Consulting & HR	$115,000 – $170,000+
67	Human Resources Manager	Consulting & HR	$100,000 – $150,000+
68	Project Management Manager	Consulting & HR	$105,000 – $160,000+
69	Training & Development Manager	Consulting & HR	$100,000 – $145,000+
70	Natural Sciences Manager	Specialized & Scientific	$130,000 – $190,000+
71	Physicist	Specialized & Scientific	$120,000 – $170,000+
72	Economist	Specialized & Scientific	$110,000 – $160,000+
73	Political Scientist	Specialized & Scientific	$100,000 – $150,000+
74	Mathematician	Specialized & Scientific	$105,000 – $155,000+
75	Commercial Pilot	Aviation	$85,000 – $130,000+
76	Power Plant Manager	Energy & Utilities	$110,000 – $165,000+
77	Radiation Therapist	Medical & Healthcare	$90,000 – $125,000+
78	Elevator Installer / Repairer	Skilled Trades	$80,000 – $120,000+
79	Media & Communication Manager	Media & Communications	$100,000 – $150,000+
80	Nurse Practitioner (NP)	Medical & Healthcare	$105,000 – $130,000+
81	Physician Assistant (PA)	Medical & Healthcare	$110,000 – $135,000+
82	Construction Manager	Construction & Real Estate	$95,000 – $140,000+
83	Real Estate Manager (Commercial)	Construction & Real Estate	$95,000 – $145,000+
84	Advertising & Promotions Manager	Marketing & Media	$95,000 – $140,000+
85	Public Relations Manager	Marketing & Media	$95,000 – $140,000+
86	Financial Examiner	Finance	$90,000 – $130,000+
87	Database Architect	IT & Data	$100,000 – $145,000+
88	Information Security Analyst (Senior)	IT & Cybersecurity	$95,000 – $140,000+
89	Software QA Manager	IT & Software	$100,000 – $145,000+
90	Web Developer (Lead/Manager)	IT & Software	$90,000 – $130,000+
91	Environmental Engineer (Manager)	Engineering	$90,000 – $130,000+
92	Industrial Production Manager	Manufacturing	$90,000 – $130,000+
93	Market Research Manager	Marketing & Research	$90,000 – $135,000+
94	Medical & Health Services Manager	Healthcare Administration	$95,000 – $140,000+
95	Postsecondary Education Administrator (Dean)	Education	$100,000 – $160,000+
96	Art Director	Media & Design	$90,000 – $130,000+
97	Actuary (Non-Fellow)	Finance & Risk	$85,000 – $120,000+
98	Underwriter (Senior)	Finance & Insurance	$80,000 – $120,000+
99	Cost Estimator (Senior)	Construction & Project Management	$80,000 – $115,000+
100	Loan Officer (Commercial, Senior)	Finance & Banking	$85,000 – $130,000+

Closing

In summary, Georgia’s job market rewards expertise, leadership, and technical proficiency across a broad range of industries. Executives and specialists in sectors like healthcare, finance, and IT remain among the highest earners, while the continued expansion of Atlanta’s tech scene — often called the “Silicon Peach” — creates increasing demand for data, cybersecurity, and software experts. Meanwhile, the state’s robust logistics and aviation infrastructure sustain strong salaries in transportation and supply chain management. Whether aiming for a top corporate role or a specialized professional career, Georgia offers competitive salaries, career stability, and economic diversity that make it one of the most promising employment landscapes in the American South.