Dec 23, 2024
Forget the four-year degree and crushing student loans. The hottest sought-after job in America right now, according to Google, doesn’t require college — and it could have you earning six figures a year.
New research from the search engine giant says real estate agent is the most sought-after profession in the U.S., offering flexibility, independence, and sky-high earning potential for those willing to hustle. It’s a telling sign of the times: as more Americans question the value of traditional four-year college degrees, career paths like real estate — where skills and ambition matter more than diplomas — are taking center stage.
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Is this the career pivot you’ve been waiting for? Here’s what it takes to get started, how the job connects to ongoing housing-market challenges, and how to financially prepare to make a big move in 2025.
Why a college degree isn’t the only path to success
For decades, a four-year degree was considered the golden ticket to a successful career, but that narrative is shifting. A recent Wall Street Journal/NORC survey found 56% of Americans now believe college degrees aren’t worth the cost, especially with rising tuition and student loan burdens.
This attitude shift has fueled interest in jobs that offer flexibility, high earning potential, and a clear path to success without a diploma. Google’s data highlights this trend, revealing that roles like real estate agent — where drive and skills often matter more than formal education — are topping the list of America’s most sought-after jobs.
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What does it take to become a real estate agent?
Becoming an agent doesn’t require a college degree, but it does involve obtaining a license. The process typically includes:
Pre-licensing courses: Depending on your state, you’ll need to complete between 60 and 160 hours (maybe more) of real estate coursework, which can often be done online or in person.
Passing the licensing exam: States require prospective agents to pass an exam covering real estate principles, contracts, and laws.
Finding a brokerage: Once licensed, new agents must work under a supervising broker in order to legally practice real estate.
The entire process can take as little as a few months and often costs less than $1,000 — a stark contrast to the $38,000-plus average price tag for a single year of college tuition.
Real estate agents and housing market challenges
The real estate profession is directly tied to the state of the U.S. housing market, and challenges in the market are creating both opportunities and obstacles. High home prices, tight inventory, and rising mortgage rates have made buying and selling more complex. As a result, skilled agents who can navigate these hurdles are in high demand.
While the market can be tough, the rewards are significant. Top-performing real estate agents earn substantial incomes. Average first-year salaries for real estate agents fall between $30,000 and $50,000 but can escalate as an agent closes more sales, according to U.S. Realty Training, an agent training firm. Higher-earning agents — particularly those who specialize in luxury properties or operate in hot markets like California or New York — can pull in well over $100,000 annually.
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Never too late for a career change
If you’re considering becoming a real estate agent — or making any career shift — it’s essential to prepare financially for the transition. Money is often the biggest hurdle for career changers, especially if your new role doesn’t provide immediate income. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
- Start by building up your emergency savings. Have at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses set aside. Real estate agents often work on commission, so it may take time to earn your first paycheck.
- Consider side gigs or freelance work to bring in cash while you establish yourself. Driving for rideshare apps, tutoring, or offering part-time services can keep money flowing. You’ll also want to cut unnecessary expenses and prioritize the essentials. Cutting back on dining out or subscriptions can free up funds to invest in your new career.
- You’ll probably also need to plan for upfront costs. Would-be agents need to cover licensing fees, exam prep courses, and marketing materials. Understanding these costs in advance will help you avoid any surprises.
- And even after you get your license, success in real estate comes from networking, marketing, and negotiation skills. Consider affordable and on-going training programs to boost your competitive edge.
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Chris Clark is a Kansas City–based freelance journalist covering personal finance, housing and retirement. A former Associated Press editor and reporter, he writes plainspoken stories that help readers make smarter financial decisions.
