No. 9 best: Occupational therapist

No. 9 best: Occupational therapist

No. 9 best: Occupational therapist, > Annual median wage: $80,150
> Projected job growth, 2014-2024: 27%
> Total employment: 118,070

Occupational therapists work with patients that have a range of disabilities and afflictions. They help the patients to accomplish everyday tasks and expand their capabilities. Employment opportunities for occupational therapists are projected to increase by 27% between 2014 and 2024 -- more than triple the projected 7% employment growth rate across all occupations. Not only are occupational therapists in demand, but they are also well compensated. The median salary in the field of $80,150 a year is more than double the $37,040 median salary across all occupations.