10 Jobs That Paid Surprisingly Well in the ’80s
Some jobs in the '80s offered salaries that might seem shocking today, proving that high pay sometimes comes from unexpected places.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Some jobs in the 1980s paid more than people might think. Some took skill, some were risky, and some just had high demand. A good paycheck was not just for executives and celebrities. Plenty of regular jobs brought in big money, too.
1. Court Stenographer
Harris & Ewing Collection on Wikimedia Commons
With fast fingers and keen ears, court stenographers earned impressive salaries in the ’80s. Legal proceedings required meticulous transcription, making these professionals indispensable. Their ability to keep up with rapid speech and produce accurate records put them in high demand.
2. Commercial Airline Pilot
behrouz sasani on Pexels
Flying the skies in the ’80s came with a hefty paycheck, especially for experienced pilots. With airlines expanding globally, pilots were highly valued for their expertise. High salaries and travel perks made this a dream job for many.
3. TV Repair Technician
U.S. Navy photo on Pexels
Before streaming took over, TVs were household staples, and repairs were a big business. Skilled technicians could charge hefty fees for fixing picture tubes, antennas, and internal components. A well-established shop often brought in a steady stream of high-paying customers.
4. Underwater Welder
Felipe Silva on Pexels
Welding under the ocean was not just dangerous—it was highly profitable. Industrial projects, including bridge and oil rig construction, required skilled divers with welding expertise. The combination of risk and skill led to massive paychecks.
5. Radio DJ
Anna Pou on Pexels
The golden era of FM radio made DJs the voice of a generation, and the best ones got paid well. Popular radio personalities earned lucrative salaries through sponsorships and on-air gigs. Some even became local celebrities, boosting their earnings through endorsements.
6. Oil Rig Worker
Oleksiy Ukraine, Crimea 🌻🇺🇦🌻 on Pexels
Oil rig jobs are tough, grueling, and well-paid. They attract workers willing to take on extreme conditions. With long hours and high-risk environments, companies compensate employees generously. Those who stick with it often walk away with hefty paychecks.
7. Celebrity Photographer
ANTONI SHKRABA production on Pexels
The rise of tabloid culture in the ’80s made celebrity photographers some of the highest-paid professionals. Exclusive photos of movie stars, musicians, and scandals could fetch a fortune. A single snapshot of a famous face could mean instant financial success.
8. Stockbroker
AlphaTradeZone on Pexels
The fast-paced world of Wall Street created massive opportunities for stockbrokers. With the right connections and market knowledge, brokers earned commissions that dwarfed traditional salaries. The ’80s stock boom meant some brokers made millions overnight.
9. Casino Dealer
Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels
High rollers and big tips made casino dealing a surprisingly profitable gig. Skilled dealers at top casinos earned generous salaries, especially in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Those with a knack for handling cards and customers often walked away with substantial earnings.
10. Long-Haul Truck Driver
Alex Surd on Pexels
Driving across the country was not just about the miles—it was about the money. Demand for goods transport skyrocketed in the ’80s, and companies paid top dollar for reliable drivers. With long hours and cross-country hauls, the paychecks made the journey worthwhile.