One of the most frustrating elements of trying to decide on a career path can be determining what degree or in what location your chosen profession will earn you the highest possible salary.

Recently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released a list of the 15 highest paid careers in America. Although some of these professions do not require advanced degrees, most have high earning potential because they require considerable amounts of schooling, responsibility, and believe it or not — work.

The crowning careers on this list should come as no surprise. Doctors and surgeons typically lead the pack when it comes to highest paid occupations in the country, followed by orthodontists and dentists, all earning an average annual salary between $161,750 and $234,950.

However, being at the bottom of this particular list is still nothing to sneeze at. Coming in at number 15, pharmacists are earning an average annual salary of nearly $113,000.

Highest Paid Careers in America

1. Doctors and Surgeons
Average annual salary: $168,650-$234,950
Best Location for Highest Salary: Arkansas

2. Orthodontists and Dentists
Average annual salary: $161,750-$204,670
Best Location for Highest Salary: New Hampshire

3. Chief Executive Officer
Average annual salary: $176,550
Best Location for Highest Salary: Connecticut

4. Petroleum Engineer
Average annual salary: $138,980
Best Location for Highest Salary: Texas

5. Lawyer
Average annual salary: $130,490
Best Location for Highest Salary: District of Columbia

6. Architectural and Engineering Managers
Average annual salary: $129,350
Best Location for Highest Salary: Alaska

7. Natural Science Manager
Average annual salary: $128,230
Best Location for Highest Salary: North Carolina

8. Marketing Manager
Average annual salary: $126,190
Best Location for Highest Salary: Massachusetts

9. Computer and Information Systems Manager
Average annual salary: $125,660
Best Location for Highest Salary: Washington, DC

10. Industrial Organizational Psychologist
Average annual salary: $124,160
Best Location for Highest Salary: N/A

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