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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