80 Low-Stress Jobs that Can Be Done Remotely

It’s a bit of an understatement to say that balancing a career with life’s daily demands can be stressful. Between work assignments and the daily responsibilities of being an adult, stress and burnout can quickly follow, which can spell trouble for your mental and physical health. Thankfully, remote work can alleviate some of those struggles.

But considering low-stress jobs doesn’t necessarily help you find one. How do you determine which industries and roles offer manageable stress levels? Believe it or not, there’s an official list for that very thing.

Discover the List of Low-Stress Jobs

We consulted the online careers database O*Net, run by the U.S. Department of Labor. One of O*Net’s resources is a list of occupations rated by their level of required “stress tolerance,” defined as how much a given job “requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.”

Jobs are rated from 0 to 100. Jobs with higher ratings are considered more stressful and require more stress tolerance from professionals.

We compared O*Net’s list of hundreds of low-stress jobs (jobs with a ranking less than 80) with the FlexJobs database to compile a list of the least stressful jobs. These jobs are marked as having a bright outlook (expected to grow rapidly in the next several years or will have large numbers of job openings) and offer remote work options.

We’ve also sorted out a few low-stress, high-paying jobs and low-stress jobs that don’t require a degree to help you find jobs that meet your work-life balance and career goals. Take a look.

60 Least Stressful Jobs

Whether you’re looking to switch careers or are just starting out, this list is tailored to help you find roles that are both professionally rewarding and kind to your well-being.

10 Low-Stress, High-Paying Jobs

The idea of a low-stress job often brings images of modest pay, but this doesn’t always have to be the case. The following is a list of low-stress jobs that offer competitive salaries.

10 Low-Stress Jobs Without a Degree

Not having a degree shouldn’t limit you from engaging in fulfilling, low-pressure jobs. If you’re looking for low-stress jobs that don’t require a degree, start your research with this list.

What Are High-Stress Jobs?

Typically, high-stress jobs are characterized by tight deadlines, high pressure, constant scrutiny, or intense decision-making. By understanding what roles you might want to avoid, you can steer your job search toward more serene careers. The following is a list of high-stress jobs ranked from most to least stressful.

How to Find a Low-Stress Job

Navigating the job market to find a low-stress job can seem challenging, but with a focused strategy, it’s achievable.

1. Determine Your Stress Threshold

For starters, identify what “stressful” means to you. Think back to past jobs and the tasks or situations that felt too much. Was it constant deadlines, multitasking, or dealing with difficult clients? Understanding these factors helps in pinpointing roles that fit your comfort zone.

Also, consider how different environments and job responsibilities have impacted your stress levels. This self-awareness can guide you in choosing a job that aligns with your stress tolerance, ensuring you stay within a comfortable and productive working zone.

2. Target Jobs That Match Your Career Goals

Take a moment to analyze how your stress threshold blends with your career goals. If you’re coming from a high-intensity sector, like sales or marketing, maybe pursue roles with more predictable rhythms. Look for positions where your transferable skills can be utilized but in a setting that’s less frantic.

For example, in this scenario, you might consider pivoting to areas like content creation or project management. These roles often provide a professional challenge without the high stakes and rapid pace. A more balanced approach to your work life is always a win-win.

3. Target Low-Stress Jobs

First, aim for jobs inherently designed with lower stress. Look for roles characterized by minimal emergency scenarios and smooth working conditions. These might include certain remote or freelance positions, which typically offer greater control over your work setting and pace.

Go further by focusing on industries known for their tranquil nature. Use the lists above to explore opportunities in fields like administrative support, writing, or online education. These not only align with quieter, steadier workdays but often emphasize a healthier work-life balance overall.

4. Research Company Policies

It’s a fact that company culture significantly affects stress, regardless of the overall stress level of the industry. A top priority in your job search should be exploring workplaces known to value work-life balance. Flexible hours, employee wellness programs, and a supportive atmosphere are key indicators of a low-stress environment.

Dig into reviews and networks to get a real sense of how companies handle stress and work-life balance. Prioritize those that align with your needs for flexibility, support, and a peaceful working environment.

5. Ask Questions During the Hiring Process

Advocate for yourself during the interview process to gauge the stress level of a job. Ask about workload, deadlines, team dynamics, and how the company supports employee well-being. These insights are crucial in assessing if the job will be low-stress.

Don’t shy away from discussing remote work logistics, work-life balance, and expectations around availability. The responses can tell you a lot about the day-to-day realities of the job and if it meets your criteria for low stress.

Uncover the Least Stressful Jobs

Remember, if you’re seeking a career path where your well-being is as much a priority as your professional growth, there’s a world of suitable options waiting for you. Imagine stepping into a role where the dread of Monday mornings becomes a thing of the past. This isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a very real possibility in today’s diverse job market.

When you’re ready to launch your search for a fulfilling, low-stress career, FlexJobs can be your ally. You’ll find carefully vetted job listings, creating a safe, low-stress job search, rather than having to navigate remote work scams on your own. Instead, focus your energy on finding a flexible job aligned with your career and work-life balance goals.

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