If you’re a single mom who wants to start a new career and make more money, going back to school at 30 or 40 is one way to do it. However, it’s not the only way to initiate a successful career switch.
Before you start hitting the books, ask yourself:
Will a degree help me get hired in my chosen field?
Is there another similar career that doesn’t require a degree?
How will I pay for school?
How will I find time to work and support my family?
Who will take care of my kids while I’m in class?
We’ll help you answer these questions and more about going back to school as a single mom:
Do you want to make more money? Find a more fulfilling job? Have a more flexible schedule? Work from home?
Is going back to school the only or best way to get what you want?
Cindi Chanin, founder and director atRainbow EDU Consulting and Tutoring1 in Santa Monica, Calif., who recently worked in the Admissions Departments for Yale and USC, says it’s important to get to the root of why you want to go back to school to determine if it’s actually worth it.
She recommends taking online assessments and personality tests like those offered on SkillsArena2 to learn more about which fields may be the best fit for you and the skills you’ll need to get a job.
“Professional services can also help current and prospective students reassess their career, interests, and skill set, while figuring out a trajectory that’s going to be valuable for them in terms of return on investment (ROI),” Chanin says.
Speaking of ROI, one way to determine if it makes sense for you to go back to school is to calculate your potential salary increase vs. the cost of obtaining an education. Chanin recommends using this equation:
Anticipated salary divided by the total cost of tuition
Multiply by 100
If you attend school for $50,000 and your starting salary afterward is $60,000, your ROI would be 120%.
Chanin says an ROI of more than 100% is advisable since it means you’ll be earning more than what you invested to go back to school.
“However, taking out an $80,000 loan for a Ph.D. program in liberal arts is not recommended, since the salaries coming out of that program will not justify the cost of your degree,” Chanin says.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,3 the average starting salary for a liberal arts career is $50,000 (62.5% ROI).
If you’ve determined that going back to school is the right choice for you, getting a degree online may be a more flexible option than enrolling in a traditional on-campus program.
Going back to school at 30
According to the National Center for Education Statistics,4 nearly half of all U.S. students enrolled in colleges and universities are over 25. At least 22% of undergraduate students are also raising children.5
No — 30 is not too old for college, as long as your prospective career is worth the time, money, and hassle of going back to school as a working adult. Considering the average U.S. retirement age is 64,4 if you go back to school in your 30s, you likely still have about 30 more years to work in your chosen career.
Think about whether you’d be happy and financially secure in your current career for the next 30 years. If the answer is no, it may be worth going back to school in your 30s.
Of course, money is a major determining factor in whether or not you can go back to school. If you can’t afford college tuition, consider other high-paying careers that don’t require a college degree, including these six-figure jobs.
Hear from real people who went back to school in their 30s:
Financial advisors work with clients one-on-one to help them manage their finances. Common services include investment advice, estate planning, tax filing, and retirement planning.
To become a financial advisor, it helps to have a degree in finance or accounting. You will also need to take classes and earn a certification to earn the title of Certified Financial Planner (CFP). To offer investment advice to clients, you will also need to pass a Series 63 and Series 65 exam.
For those interested in furthering their education, online doctoral degrees in finance or related fields offer flexible options to gain advanced knowledge and enhance career prospects.
Human resources
Salary potential: $80,500+
Education requirements: 4-year degree or Master’s Degree in Human Resources
There are several opportunities in human resources, ranging from a Recruiter or Employment Specialist to a Human Resources Manager or Employee Relations Manager.
While you can earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in HR, there are also several certifications you can earn to boost your earning potential in this field.
The HR Certification Institute and The Society for Human Resource Management are two popular places to obtain HR certifications.
Graphic designer
Salary potential: $56,251 to $94,106 depending on experience
Education requirements: A degree in design is helpful but not required to start a career in graphic design. Certifications and hands-on experience are also helpful.
Graphic designers create visual artwork and effects, including:
Logos
Website designs
Advertisements
Brochures
Book covers
Magazines
To become a graphic designer, you may want to take a few college courses or work toward becoming certified with certain software vendors. For example, you could earn your Adobe Photoshop Certification online for about $150.
Going back to school at 40
The idea of going back to school at 40 can be daunting, but many college and university programs have flexible options designed for working adults.
Is 40 too old for college?
According to a recent Indeed.com survey, the average person switches careers at age 39. So no, 40 is not too old for college, as long as the career you’re seeking is worth the money and time it will take to earn a degree.
Is it worth it to go back to school at 40?
Though you may have less time to “climb the ladder” in your chosen field, going back to school may be worth it if you choose a career with opportunities for quick growth or fields that are in high demand.
Here’s what real people who went back to school in their 40s had to say:
Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field
An information security analyst, also known as a cyber security analyst, is someone who monitors networks for security breaches and investigates if one occurs. This role may involve using different software systems like firewalls and data encryption programs to protect users’ private information online.
Working as an analyst in the tech field can also provide valuable experience, as will obtaining certifications in cyber security.
Nursing
Salary potential: $43.18 per hour or $92,147 per year
Education requirements: Attend an accredited nursing program and pass the licensing test.
Nursing is a field that’s always in demand. After obtaining your license, additional certifications are optional but may help increase your employment options and salary.
Real estate
Salary potential: $96,629
Education requirements: Attend real estate training program and pass licensing exam (requirements vary by state)
Going back to school doesn’t have to mean attending a 2- or 4-year college program. There are several jobs in real estate, including administrative work, real estate marketing, and even working as an agent or broker. Agents get paid mostly through commissions, and success in this field heavily depends on what you put into it.
You can obtain a real estate license in just a few months. Requirements vary by state, but you will need to complete a certain number of hours in coursework and pass a state licensing exam to get started.
It’s also important to have a healthy savings in place if you become an agent, since it might take a while to make your first sale.
What is it like for a single mom going back to school?
Going back to school can be a major adjustment, especially for single moms. If you’re wondering how moms juggle work, kids, the household, and school, they often don’t do it alone or without a clear plan.
Here’s what some moms on Reddit have to say about going back to school:
To successfully go back to school in your 30s or 40s, Chanin says single moms have to have the following “soft skills” and arrangements in place:
Time management skills: “It’s important to be able to prioritize because not everything can be top priority.” Chanin recommends creating a consistent schedule that includes dedicated study time, work, child care, and personal time. She suggests using planning tools, like digital or physical planners/calendars and reminder or project management apps to help keep track of deadlines and responsibilities.
Money management: Estimate your costs per semester or class, and research scholarships, financial aid, and grant opportunities. Then, factor this into your budget. In addition to scholarships and grants, many students rely on federal or affordable private student loans to help cover tuition costs.
You may also want to cut back on certain expenses while you’re in school to free up money. Chanin adds that aside from scholarships, Employer Tuition Reimbursement can be a viable option if it’s available to you. You can check to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement or partners with any specific colleges that can provide discounted tuition rates.
The Wealthysinglemommy Single Mon grant gives $500 monthly to a self-motivated single mom struggling with money, health, stress, child care, illness or loneliness — no strings attached.
Qualifications are simple:
1. You're a single mom.
2. You need the money right now.
Fill out this form to apply:
Child care: If possible, schedule classes or homework while your kids are in daycare or at school. Otherwise, you may need to get a babysitter or see if family and friends can help with child care.
Self-motivation and self-discipline: You’ll need a lot of self-motivation and discipline as a returning student in order to stay on track. Plan your weekly schedule ahead of time and limit distractions so you can stay on top of your coursework.
Flexibility: Most single moms still need to work while going to school, so consider online classes, evening classes, Saturday classes, or even fully online degrees for more flexibility.
Support/resources: Whether your circle includes family, friends, or other moms in your area, everyone needs a circle of support to lean on in times of need. Some schools even have a college parent support group and offer information on community resources and programs such as child care assistance, tutoring, and career counseling. If you’re thinking about going back to school, start building your support system and letting others know how you might need them to help.
What are some reasons I shouldn’t be going back to school?
If you cannot financially support your family while you go back to school, you may want to consider another career that doesn’t require a degree.
Likewise, if going to school would add a lot of stress in terms of planning your schedule or having adequate child care and support, you may want to revisit the idea at a better time in the future.
Will going back to school as an adult help my finances?
It depends heavily on your unique situation and career prospects. Ideally, you want to pursue a program or career that allows you to start making money right away and will result in limited (or no) debt. Low-cost, high-earning jobs are the best options.
Should I go back to college in-person or online?
Going to school online is a more flexible option, but both types of schooling come with pros and cons. In-person classes can be more hands-on and allow you to receive more direct help from the instructor. However, online classes can save you time and possibly money since you don’t have to commute to the classroom.
Do I need to go back to school full-time?
Unless you have a large amount of money saved, you’ll likely need to work while attending school. That can make being a full-time student nearly impossible. You will likely need to balance work with part-time classes, so it may take a little longer to get your degree, license, or certification.
Bottom line: Is going back to school worth it?
There are several solid career options for single moms in their 30s and 40s looking to go back to school. Keep in mind that not all new careers require a college degree, so “returning to school” may look different for each person depending on the career track you choose.
Consider one of these alternative careers that doesn’t require a degree:
If you’re going to go back to school, start researching the program you’re interested in and the career prospects. Plan out your finances so that you can either start saving up for courses in advance, get on a payment plan, or secure other funding options like scholarships.
SOURCES
Rainbow EDU Consulting and Tutoring. https://rainboweduconsulting.com/
Skills Arena. https://skillsarena.com/
“Field of degree: Liberal arts.” Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/field-of-degree/liberal-arts/liberal-arts-field-of-degree.htm
“It's back-to-school time—what do we know about our nation’s students and schools?” 2023. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=372
“Evaluating the Role of Campus Child Care in Student Parent Success.” October 2021. IWPR. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://iwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Evaluating-the-Role-of-Campus-Child-Care_FINAL.pdf
So you’ve made the decision to end your marriage — but how do you start the conversation with your spouse?
Avigail Lev, PsyD, founder of Bay Area CBT Center in San Francisco, specializes in working with couples as they navigate conflict and interpersonal problems, recommends setting the precedent of open communication, transparency, and collaboration from the time you ask for divorce.
“Collaborating together to find the best way to move forward can help ease the transition and minimize conflicts,” says Lev, who is also a certified mediator.
This means:
Being honest with your spouse about why you want to end the marriage (and avoiding pointing fingers)
Working together to set the terms of your divorce — asset/debt division, custody, support payments, etc.
That said, even if you’ve been openly having doubts, your spouse may be blindsided or have an extremely negative emotional response to you asking for a divorce — which is likely to amp up the conflict during and after the divorce and is especially toxic if you will co-parent going forward.
If you are concerned that your partner may retaliate in an abusive way, Lev says you should connect with professionals — like an attorney or licensed therapist — before talking to your spouse.
If you're wondering how to start the conversation about divorce with your spouse, keep reading.
Considering high-conflict and collaborative situations alike, we talked to Lev and New York City divorce attorney Jaqueline Newman to get their advice on how to ask for a divorce.
Here’s what they had to say:
1. Be sure divorce is what you want
Before you ask your spouse for a divorce, make sure you’re 100% ready to walk away. If you have any doubts, consider alternatives such as couples therapy or a trial separation.
You prefer to spend time with your friends or family over your husband or wife
You stop making future plans
You regret getting married
You have reason to be secretive about your phone
You start worrying about money in the event you find yourself single
2. Prepare to have the conversation
If it helps you get your thoughts together, write down what you want to say ahead of time. You can even practice having the conversation first with a trusted friend, or with a therapist.
Another part of preparing for the conversation is getting into the right mindset that will allow you to remain as level-headed as possible.
“Try to stay away from accusations and attacks,” says Newman, who is also the author of The New Rules of Divorce. If unresolved feelings of anger and blame are coming up as you prepare to talk to your spouse, consider consulting with a therapist on how you can process these feelings and have a civil conversation.
3. Understand where your spouse is emotionally
While there may be a lot of conflict when you ask for a divorce, it’s also possible that your partner will agree that dissolving the marriage is in both of your best interests.
If the latter is true, you and your partner may be able to save thousands of dollars and lots of time by filing for divorce online and not involving attorneys — except to review the divorce agreement you agree to on your own.
Our No. 1 recommendation for online divorce is 3StepDivorce because:
Quick, self-paced process
High third-party ratings
One of the oldest divorce-help companies on the market
Have helped more than 10 million people get divorced
Featured by Forbes, CNN, USA Today and NPR
Excellent customer service
Print your divorce papers immediately
100% money-back guarantee if your courthouse does not accept the papers because of something 3 Step Divorce was responsible for
However, having a collaborative divorce doesn’t mean that there won’t still be difficult emotions to process. As you prepare to have the conversation, think about how your spouse is likely to react.
How do they usually approach conflict? How do they manage painful or challenging emotions? Let this inform how you approach them.
Lev warns, “Individuals with personality disorders may be resistant to change, lack empathy, or exhibit manipulative behavior that can hinder a fair and reasonable divorce negotiation.”
In this case, you may want to make a plan ahead of time with a lawyer and/or therapist that protects your safety and assets. Newman says she evaluates the whole of someone’s specific situation to determine potential legal risks.
“I thought I was being the nice guy by telling him before I filed,” says Jessica, a divorcee. “A week later, his mother filed a lawsuit against me in probate court to take our family home. If I had served him first, the suit would have been pushed over to family law. I spent two years defending that lawsuit.”
As for serving divorce papers, Newman says that would be done by a process server, an unbiased third party who delivers legal documents, or an attorney.
While you may not jump into the logistical next steps right away, Lev recommends getting familiar with the conversation topics that often come next. These include:
Planning asset division
Negotiating child custody
Reorganizing financial arrangements
Addressing shared debt
Managing passwords and shared accounts
Updating beneficiaries
Evaluating divorce fees and costs
Keep in mind that, as the person asking for divorce, you have already had time to process this change, while your spouse has not.
Read over the list of talking points you’ve made and consider them through your spouse’s eyes. What questions would he or she ask? On which subject might your spouse press you for more information, or even disagree?
Thinking ahead can help you address any potential conflicts in a rational way. Ultimately, it will be up to you to decide how much you want to disclose and discuss.
5. Choose the right time and place
One of the most important factors in peacefully asking for a divorce is choosing an appropriate time and location to do it. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Make sure that the conversation isn’t hasty. Choose a time when you know neither of you has anything going on afterward. You’ll both need time to process the conversation.
If you have children, choose a time when they are out of the house. Think about arranging an activity for them in the care of friends and/or relatives.
Make sure that you don’t launch the conversation in the heat of an argument or while tensions are particularly high. Pick a calm moment when you can try to remain as neutral as possible.
Again, if you fear for your safety asking for a divorce, consider talking in a public location and/or seeking professional counsel about how to approach your spouse.
If you are still feeling nervous, you can also find support in therapy. Chloe says, “Ask first for couples therapy. The therapy will help to clarify that a divorce is needed.”
6. Use “I” statements
If your goal is to have a peaceful conversation, resist the urge to list every grievance and/or place blame on your spouse. Speak in “I” statements that reflect your experience. Starting sentences off with “you” will likely put your spouse on the defensive.
Still, finding the right words can be challenging. Newman offers these tips for starting the conversation:
When the timing seems appropriate, ask your spouse, “Is now a good time to have a difficult conversation?”
“You need to both be in the best mindset possible to start talking about divorce to keep the conversation as peaceful and productive as possible,” Newman says.
Start off the conversation by acknowledging that you are unhappy and that you want happiness for you both. Let your spouse know that you want to make all efforts to end things in the most civilized and respectful way possible.
Lev provides a formula to follow:
Express the observations that have led to you wanting a divorce (again, avoiding pointing fingers).
Describe your needs and requests in relation to how you'd like to move forward.
“Recognize that you both deserve to be happy and (if you have children) that you want to role model a good and healthy marriage for your children to replicate, not an angry and toxic one,” Lev says.
She offers an example:
“Even though we've been in couples therapy for years and have worked on our relationship, it seems that we're still both unhappy and dissatisfied in this relationship.
“Given that we've both given it our best, I’d like to move forward with separation and moving gradually towards getting a divorce. I'm needing us to be collaborative, cooperative, empathic, and respectful throughout this process. Would you be willing to attend mediation for us to negotiate the decisions regarding our separation?”
Below are other conversation starters you can use that are rooted in Lev and Newman’s advice:
Is now a good time to have a difficult conversation about our marriage?
I’d like to talk about the future of our marriage in couples therapy. When can we set aside time for that?
I’ve noticed that we’ve both seemed unsatisfied for a while now, and I want us both to be happy. I’d like to explore what divorce would mean for us.
I’ve been feeling unhappy in our marriage, and I imagine it’s been hard for you, too. I’d like to talk about getting a divorce.
We’ve both tried hard to make this work, but I’d like to move forward with getting a divorce.
Divorcees on Reddit also share the conversation starters they’ve successfully used:
Newman suggests letting the person have their reaction, walking away and continuing the conversation once emotions have settled.
In practice, this will mean stating your points, then refraining from interrupting and getting defensive when your spouse responds. Practice active listening. This will be one of many conversations to come — everything does not need to be said at once.
No matter how gently you approach your spouse, keep in mind that he or she may still react negatively or make the process challenging.
As you and your spouse have ongoing conversions, Lev says you shouldn’t be afraid of enlisting professionals to help you along the way.
“Marriage counseling or mediation can facilitate constructive discussions and ensure both parties' needs are considered,” she says.
8. Establish and maintain boundaries
Whether your spouse is on the same page or needs time to accept you will be getting a divorce, Lev says you should both establish and maintain healthy boundaries. Respect each other’s need for space while maintaining open and transparent communication.
These are some boundaries you may need to determine:
Where you’ll live
How and how often you’ll communicate
Where your children will live temporarily (if you have children)
How you’ll handle ongoing expenses (groceries, utility bills, loans, etc.)
9. Discuss next steps with your spouse
Asking for a divorce is one of many hard conversations to come. Now, you and your spouse will have to start deciding what each of you wants in the divorce.
If you want a peaceful or amicable divorce with your spouse, you may opt for working with a mediator or therapist and decide not to file with an attorney.
These are some things you’ll need to discuss:
Asset and debt division
Living arrangements (Will one of you keep the house or sell it and divide the profits?)
If you are in a difficult or unsafe situation, consider reaching out to an attorney, therapist, or other professional to guide you safely through the process.
“Each divorce case is unique, and the process can vary depending on the specific circumstances,” Lev says. “It's crucial to prioritize your well-being throughout the journey.”
The federal government contracts with organizations and companies to get tablets and iPads to low-income people. Typically, having an EBT card is the qualifier.
These deals have spawned a lot of scammers (big surprise).
In this post, we’ll explain how you can get free or discounted iPads or mobile tablets and how to avoid scams.
Also, check out our list of sites where you can get free audiobooks.
How to avoid “Free iPad” scams
Yes, there are lots of ways to get a free iPad, including from government programs and agencies, wireless companies, nonprofits, and schools.
Legit free iPad, tablets and phone programs will often:
Have strict eligibility requirements — typically your Medicaid or EBT card
Have limited quantities
Require proof of identity
But be careful. If you’re required to share personal information such as your social security number, bank account information, or date of birth in exchange for a free iPad, use caution.
Scammers claim to offer free iPads to steal data or take advantage of individuals who are eager to get one.
Unfortunately there are many free iPad scams online. So, how do you spot a scam?
A general rule of thumb: If you have to pay money to get an advertised free iPad — even with the promise of having the money returned to you — then it’s not free.
Signs of a “Free iPad” scam:
Pop-up ads: Don’t click on flashy ads that pop up when you are online with words like: “Win a new iPad Pro” or “Congratulations you won a free iPad!”
Email addresses you don’t recognize: Be wary of opening emails from unknown senders with the subject line “Free iPad”
Website address is spelled differently: If the online offer claims to be from a well-known store like Walmart but instead of taking you to walmart.com, the website URL is either completely or slightly different (i.e. walmart.net, wallmart.com, etc.)
News story about the offer: Some scammers use logos from news outlets to try to add credibility to their offers, but the web address is not the official news source’s web address
Misspelled words, poor grammar, or hype language: Be wary of offers that use incorrect spelling, all capital letters, or words like “crazy”
Requesting personal information: Beware if the online offer asks for personal or sensitive information, such as your social security number
Requires credit card information: Be careful of “just pay shipping” offers or offers that require you to make a purchase or buy a subscription to get an iPad
Overall, be careful where you click. Sometimes just clicking on a scammer’s ad or link can introduce malware or a virus to your laptop or smartphone.
Legit free tablet programs if you have EBT benefits
If you have EBT, SNAP or Medicaid benefits, you may be eligible to receive free or discounted electronics, including tablets, smartphones, and laptops:
1. Lifeline Program
Lifeline is another way to get free or low-cost electronics. Lifeline-eligible low-income families can sign up for free and discounted phone and free and discounted internet services from participating providers. The program offers up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service or $34.25 per month for those on Tribal lands3.
Eligible families have an income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in one of the government programs noted above (such as SNAP or Medicaid).
Some wireless providers that work with Lifeline and offer discounted iPads or tablets for about $10:
Easy Wireless – 8-inch tablet for $10.99, but tablets options and pricing may vary by state and availability
StandUp Wireless – 10-inch tablet for a co-pay of at least $10.01
QLink – Tablet for $10.01 and it comes with a free smartphone for eligible customers
Cintex Wireless – iPad Mini for a co-pay of $10.01
Call the United Way’s at 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find programs in your area.
3. Veterans Affairs iPad program
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) collaborates with Apple to lend iPads to veterans who previously weren’t able to attend telehealth appointments due to a lack of internet or an internet-connected device.
The iPads have cellular service so that veterans can access virtual health care services even if they don't have internet access.
To determine your eligibility for a free iPad, you will need a VA Digital Divide Consult, which you can schedule by contacting your local VA.
Some local government agencies offer programs for free or discounted iPads, including free ipads for students. You can start research by looking for “free tablet with EBT near me,” as well as variations on “free tablet with food stamps” and “free tablet with Medicaid” near you.
For example, in 2022, the California Department of Aging4 collaborated with local health and human service agencies to provide free iPads to adults over 60 and those with disabilities who had no devices to access the internet.
For example, the Wayne County Committee for Crippled Children and Adults7 in Wooster, Ohio, gives free iPads to people who are nonverbal or experience development delays that make it hard to communicate without assistive technology.
To find resources near you, contact your local United Way by dialing 2-1-1.
Schools offering free tablets and iPads
Many K-12 schools offer free tablets to their students for classwork and continued learning at home — especially schools that are in low-income neighborhoods.
For example, Gary Community School Corp. in Gary, In. provides a 10.1-inch tablet and free monthly internet service to all students who attend the school district in the 2022-2023 school year and apply for the tablet.8 The school district receives the USDA Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), a meal option for schools in low-income areas.
Public Wireless is working with K-12 and colleges across the nation to provide free tablets to qualified students. For example, the University of Maryland Global Campus is partnered with Public Wireless to provide a 10-inch tablet and 4G service to students who complete the FAFSA and show financial need.9
Some colleges and universities offer free tablets or iPads for students, including:
The University of Kentucky: As an Apple Distinguished School, this university is providing an iPad Air, keyboard and Apple Pencil to all first-time undergrads in a degree program to help them level up in learning, graduating and increasing technology skills to help them pursue careers 10
Delaware State University: As part of its Digital Student Universe program, all first-year students who graduated high school in May 2018 or later will receive an iPad or Macbook, protective case, smart keyboard, Apple Pencil, and Applecare+11
Moravian University: This Apple Distinguished School gives all incoming freshmen receive a Macbook, iPad, and Apple Pencil to encourage the use of technology in education12
To find out if your prospective school offers free iPads, contact the office of the registrar.
“Affordable Connectivity Program” 2023. Federal Communications Commission. https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
“HHS Poverty Guidelines for 2023.” January 19, 2023. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines
“Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications” 2023. Federal Communications Commission. https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
“Disabled adults and adults 60+ may be eligible for free iPad in Shasta County.” October 17, 2022. KRCR. https://krcrtv.com/news/local/disabled-adults-and-adults-older-than-60-might-be-eligible-for-free-ipad
Wayne County Committee for Crippled Children & Adults. https://wcccca.org/
“Gary Community Schools Offer Students Free tablets, Internet.” September 15, 2023. Government Technology https://www.govtech.com/education/k-12/gary-community-schools-offer-students-free-tablets-internet
“Public Wireless: No-Cost Tablet & Internet Access For Eligible Students.” University of Maryland Global Campus. https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/finances/financial-aid/public-wireless
“iPad Initiative.” University of Kentucky Smart Campus. https://smartcampus.uky.edu/ipad-initiative
“Digital Student Universe.” Delaware State University. https://www.desu.edu/about/administration/information-technology/digital-student-universe
“Apple Technology at Moravian.” Moravian University. https://www.moravian.edu/academics/apple-technology
Christian dating sites help lonely Christians connect with people with similar values and find meaningful partnerships with other Christians. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed, confused, and shy about the many dating apps on the market.
Believers want to know what are the best Christian online dating sites. This guide will help you find the highest quality dating app in which to invest your hard-earned dollars, time, and vulnerable heart:
Our #1 dating app recommendation for Christians is actually not branded as Christian at all. eharmony is the leading dating site for those seeking long-term partnership, with an emphasis on religious affiliation.
We like eharmony for Christian dating because:
A Better Business Bureau rating
Scientifically proven to assist with more marriages and very low divorce rates when compared with other dating sites, quantified in a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Matches based on a deep personality questionnaire that emphasizes spirituality and religion
eharmony's founder Neil Clark Warren is a Christian theologian and seminary professor who developed the app based on his belief in the value of partnership and marriage
Also, if you're looking for Christian content in audio format, check out our list of resources for free audiobooks
Now that you know our favorite dating app, here are reviews of popular Christian dating sites/Christian dating apps:
1. Big Church
Big Church lives up to its name in that its extensive user base is active. Elaborate, detailed profiles help with getting to know your potential mate.
The “Relationship Readiness” test quantifies and rates your values, aspirations, and family attitude to closely match you with a mate. Couples that share commonalities are more likely to stay committed. “Color Code” is another tool that color-codes your personality and makes it easier to stand out.
Unfortunately, the mobile site could stand tremendous improvements. Besides a handful of glitches, Big Church claims it has an iPhone app (using the Friend Finder Network app to log in), the result is disappointing. Once you try to download the app, it's not available “in your country or region.”
Is BigChurch.com legit?
Yes, Big Church is legit. People put work into their profiles, and most interact with sincerity and are transparent with their goals. However, as with any app, exercise caution and make sure that a friend/family member knows where you are at all times.
There are no strict requirements for identity verification. Simply sign up with a valid email address and to create an account.
Also, it may seem disturbing to some that Big Church's parent company, Friend Finder Network, also owns Penthouse magazine and other niche dating sites, including Adult Friend Finder (used exclusively for hookups, threesomes, and fetishes). In other words, a profit-driven company owns Big Church and not a team of devoted Christians. Big Church's parent company (Friend Finder Network) is not accredited on BBB and currently has no rating.
Is Big Church Dating free?
In the free version of Big Church Dating, you can make matches. However, you are unable to communicate unless you pay to subscribe. If you are looking for free apps (or even try an app before committing), this is not the app for you. You will not meet a potential match for free. On the bright side, since you must pay to connect, the quality of singles is superior to free sites.
Big Church Dating pricing
1 Month Silver
$15.95
3 Months Silver
$29.95 ($9.98 per month)
1 Month Gold
$19.95
3 Months Gold
$39.95($9.99 per month)
Big Church pros
Thorough profiles and tons of features
Straightforward, intuitive design
Big Church cons
Cannot send/receive messages in the free version
No app, and the mobile and regular site malfunctions/inconvenient
Big Church reviews
From datingsitesreviews.com:
I canceled my membership a few months back, yet Bigchurch.com is STILL DEBITING MY BANK CARD.!!!! Please help!! — Anonymous
HUGE SCAM SITE. Big CHURCH. I am a member of Big Church. I wish I had never joined. Christian Mingle is way better. Big Church has so many fake accounts it is ridiculous. If someone is beautiful, you automatically assume they are a fake, foreign person. The clues are apparent when they can't write English past a middle school level. Not even that. But when you talk with them on the phone, they try to muffle their voice. CREEPY. This site is charging you to view fake foreign accounts w fake good-looking pictures mostly. Terrible. — Anonymous
With 2.2 stars out of 5 on the App Store and 3.2 on Google Play, Christian Café is not the highest-rated Christian dating app (it also has fewer members than Christian Mingle). The sign-up process is straightforward, and the site/app offers outstanding search filters. You can narrow down your search by faith commitment, app activity, and so much more. The site also takes the guesswork from searching with the Quick Match feature, a customized match-list catered to your preferences.
If you are a social butterfly, you will love the extra community features (including a question/topic and prayer forums). Christian Café truly lives up to its name by creating much more than a dating app. It's a community with life/relationship advice forums.
Is Christian Cafe legit?
Christian Café is legit in that it delivers on what it promises. Its Trustpilot rating is 2.7/5. It as an A+ rating on BBB. Developed and owned by Christians, it prioritizes its Christian customers.
Christian Café does not verify identity but it does employ technology that disables profiles that engage in fraudulent activity such as scammers who try to get money from other members.
What is the Cost of Christian Café?
Christian Café offers a 7-day free trial with access to all membership features, which is a plus considering its slightly elevated prices. However, you must subscribe to retain access to any features after the trial.
Christian Café pricing
PREMIUM
1 month
$39.97 per month
3 months
$59.97 ($19.99 per month)
6 months
$99.97 ($16.67 per month)
1 year
$109.97 ($9.99 per month)
Christian Café pros
Owned and Funded by Christians
App for iOS
Christian Café cons
No practical free features after the initial trial
Outdated interface
Christian Cafe reviews
From Trustpilot:
CC is a true Christian dating site
Sadly, this dating site doesn't have more reviews. I love the site because it is truly a Christian dating site. There are very few Christians willing to go on a dating site. Yet, you will find all kinds of “carnal” Christians on POF or Match. If values didn't matter to them, why someone would call themselves a Christian is a mystery to me? It is the same situation for me in that there are very few Christian men from my state (Washington) in my age range (50-55) on there, which makes it that much harder. But, I'm a firm believer that if it's meant to be, it will be.” —3/5 stars, by Jazzgirl
Needs Better Messaging & Options
The app needs to have better messaging functionality (previously reviewed) and more filter options. — 3/5 stars, by Jason N.
3. Christian Cupid
Christian Cupid provides an expanding platform for Christian singles to meet a potential mate. While the site is easy to navigate and sign up for, it is bare-boned and standard in features/fun of use. You can search manually or go with the site's faith-based recommendations.
Is Christian Cupid legit?
Operated by the Cupid Media network of 33 niche dating sites, Christian Cupid is trustworthy. While matches are arranged based on Christian principles, it's good to double-check as married individuals are also welcome. Its Trustpilot rating is 2.6/5.
While Christian Cupid does not require a valid I.D. when signing up, you may be asked to present a photo I.D. to verify your identity if you are locked out of your account.
How much does Christian Cupid cost?
Christian Cupid offers limited free features, including sending a “wink” to potential interest, browsing profiles, and interacting on chat with paid members only.
The paid subscription (Gold, Platinum or Diamond) offers an ad-free experience, chatting, and live messaging. In addition, the Platinum subscription enables further emails, profile priority in search results, and instant messaging. The Diamond subscription unlocks premium customer service, higher ranking in search results, priority messaging and other benefits. While the whole experience is somewhat limited, it is an excellent app to try if you live near an urban area or would consider relocating.
Christian Cupid pricing
Platinum Membership
1 Month
$29.98
3 Months
$59.99 ($20.00 per month)
12 Months
$119.98 ($10 per month)
Gold Membership
1 Month
$24.98
3 Months
$49.98 ($16.66 per month)
12 Months
$99.96 ($8.33 per month)
Christian Cupid pros
International platform/multi-lingual
Straightforward
Allows you to search for male/female profiles
Christian Cupid cons
No iOS app (Only Android)
Limited free and other features
Christian Cupid reviews
From Google Play:
Honestly, those could be a great app. But the distance filter seems almost predatory in how it works. If I wanted to talk to or date someone from Nairobi, I would get that app. I specifically selected to omit that area as I got bombarded with messages from women there, and I'm just not interested. And still, it's all that comes up. The areas I do want to search are almost non-existent. Especially in my own state. Hard pass. Fix the issues, and I'll try again. But no thanks. — Robert Duncan
Cupid Media reply:
We're sorry to hear you're not fully satisfied. Your input is crucial, so please take a moment to share your thoughts on how we can enhance your experience using the Contact Us page. If you need help to update your match preferences or how to set up an email filter, please reach out to us on our Contact Us page.
4. Christian Mingle
Considering that religious dating is a niche market, the number of single/quality profiles on Christian Mingle is impressive. However, given the 1.5/5 Trustpilot rating, many fake profiles, horrid customer service, email malfunctions, and unclassified disasters occur.
In 2016 Christian Mingle was forced to become an inclusive community and allow varied search options due to a lawsuit by the LGBT community. Now the site boasts over four million LGBT users.
According to the site, Christian Mingle is single-handedly responsible for over 30 percent of all Christian marriages. So read on and decide: whom do you believe?
Is Christian Mingle legit?
Yes, Christian Mingle is legitimate and has been around since 2001 to target Christian singles. With its male-to-female ratio being close to equal, it's a unique platform in a dating world where women typically have their pick.
In addition, seniors (over 50) make up close to a quarter percentage of all clients. However, in the free version, you cannot message or have your profile approved (this means no visible picture), so you will either think yourself terribly unpopular or not get a good idea of how the app works.
Christian Mingle reviews member profiles but does not use identity verification tools such as background checks or criminal screenings.
Christian Mingle starts at $24.99 per month for a three-month contract. The free features are limited, and you will not score a date without paying.
Christian Mingle pricing
1 Month
$49.99 per month
3 Months
$34.99 per month
6 Months
$24.99 per month
Christian Mingle pros
App iOS and Android
Blog
Multi-lingual options
Christian Mingle cons
No free chat/profile “pending review” until subscription purchase
Numerable fake profiles
Christian Mingle reviews (sitejabber.com)
“One star is way too many
After my husband passed, I reluctantly decided to try online dating. Thinking a Christian website might be a bit more genuine than others, I paid $50 for a month of fake profiles, fake contacts, fake people, and fake customer service. There is NOTHING real about this website. Just scammers are trying to take advantage of vulnerable people wanting to make a genuine connection. — Beth D.
A Total Scam
A total scam! I received dozens of smiles every day from women all over the U.S. and other countries. I'm 53 years old, and I know my playing field. There's no way on God's green earth these women would be interested in me. Not to mention the numerous messages stating they have a friend “Not on the site” that is perfect for me, and she's really into my profile, and here's how you contact her, really? Do not join this site! The owners of this site have lots of control, just don't care if they are part of the scam. — Shawn K.
5. Crosspaths
Crosspaths is a steadily growing platform for Christian singles looking for love. While the number of local profiles is limited, you are not limited to your geographical location (even though you must allow location tracking on your phone). In addition to the app experience, Crosspaths offers social events where local singles mingle. With over 110,000 members across the US, Crosspaths is growing exponentially. The biggest age group are males between the mid-20s to early 30s.
Is the Crosspaths dating app legit?
Crosspaths is a legitimate app (available for iOS or Android) although simple without many features. Fake profiles are minimal due to a stringent sign-up process. You can only create an account using either your Apple ID or Facebook, and this is the extent of identity verification. One downside is that you may end up swiping on the same profiles multiple times, presumably due to a limited database of active users.
Is Crosspaths dating app free?
Signing up is free, and you can browse profiles without paying. The process is easy and intuitive. You answer the standard questions and specify your denomination and level of Christian devotion. Your answers to the faith question allow Crosspaths to pair you with like-minded matches.
While people can add their specifics and other data, the search filters are minimal. For example, you cannot narrow down your choices by height range. However, once you match, you are free to connect. Unpaid features include browsing profiles, swiping left/right, one “super-like,” messaging matches, changing search location. Surprisingly, the app allowed us to “undo” swipes in the free version.
The paid version includes extra features such as message read receipts, and choice of location, seeing who liked you, and access to the “most eligible” profiles.
Crosspaths pricing
1 month
$24.99
3 Months
$44.99 ($14.99 per month)
6 Months
$59.99 ($9.99 per month)
Crosspaths pros
More legitimate profiles given the Facebook/Apple ID sign-ups
The free version is enough to meet and date.
Crosspaths cons
No website
Limited features and a still-growing base of users
Crosspaths reviews
From Google Play:
FB login is completely broken. I can't even make an account. With 2+ years of this being a problem (at least according to reviews), the devs need to implement another way to log in, such as email. If the only response is “we're working with FB directly to fix the issue asap” for over a year, it's time to find another solution. The app is unusable as is. I would've loved to try Crosspaths, as I know people who have had great experiences years ago. — Laura Hendrickson
This app doesn't work. I can not set up an account. The review responses show working with Facebook, but if it's been going on that long, the developers should consider old-fashioned internal logins without depending on other platforms. Or at least give an option of multiple platforms. There's a lot of dollars being lost. — J Mack
Found my match, and it is going well between us. However, we should be careful with the fake profiles, and Crosspaths should act on that. It hasn't reached very well in India, and the users were also fewer. But somehow, things worked out in my life. — Balaji Baskaran
6. Upward Christian Dating
The Upward dating app is best suited for people who want to date only fellow Christians. This app is available on Android and iOS platforms. You can sign up for a free membership (enough to meet people and possibly date). You can also subscribe to premium or elite memberships.
To minimize fake accounts, Upward verifies all accounts with a phone number. Considering most members are looking for long-term relationships or marriages, this may be the app for you.
Is Upward legit?
Yes, Upward is a legit dating site. While you will come across fake profiles, it's best to exercise caution. You can report any profiles that do not adhere to the community regulations.
Like many other apps, mutual “likes” result in a match and the ability to send messages. You cannot see who “likes” you in the free version until you match someone. You can “super-like” potential mates to let them know you're interested.
You may start chatting once you match and mutually “like” each other. Potential profiles derive from a computer algorithm and your search preferences. If you include faith and other criteria in your search preferences, you can narrow your results. The free membership offers enough value to make it possible to meet potential matches.
Upward does not perform identity checks on its members.
How much does Upward cost?
The free version is sufficient to swipe through profiles, chat and meet. However, Upward offers premium and elite plans if you wish to splurge.
Upward pricing
Premium
1 week
$8.99
1 month
$14.99
3 months
$22.49
6 months
$35.99
Elite
1 week
$17.99
1 month
$29.99
3 months
$44.99
6 months
$71.99
Super-likesand boosts
5-pack of Super-likes
$1 each
25-pack of Super-likes
$0.60 each
60-pack of Super-likes
$0.40 each
1 boost
$3.99
5-pack of boosts
$2.79 each
10-pack of boosts
$2.00 each
Upward pros
Faith-based profiles with a clean, intuitive interface
Priority on lasting relationships
Free membership offers value
Upward cons Upward is still developing, and its' user base/features are in the improvement phases
Substandard quality of matches
Upward reviews
From the Apple app store:
God used Upward in my story.
Hey I wanted to come on here and write a review now that I’m getting married to the man I met here on Upward in May 2025. I had gone on and off of dating apps before I met my now fiancé. I will say that my heart was not always right and that in some ways I was trying to “control” Gods timing with this specific blessing. But eventually after some failures in dating I realized until God made it happen it wasn’t gonna be a success. Now this realization didn’t make my fiancé appear but it made the time before meeting him through the app more bearable. I was about to delete the app again when I matched with my fiancé. After our first conversation I knew we clicked, but I still took my time since I had rushed into things to quickly before. Eventually we went on our first date, which lasted 8 hours. As I got to know him more and more in how our values and paths aligned I knew he was the one for me! I am so blessed and I can’t wait to see how God will use our marriage.
My advice if your going on a dating app: take your time and don’t rush. Understand that not finding someone instantly has nothing to do with your worth and all to do with God’s timing.
The app itself is pretty simple and easy to use, though I will say that the people you swipe on do reappear if your on the app swiping too long. — Kariing200
Worked for me.
The glory belongs to Christ and Christ alone because all good gifts come from above. I downloaded Upward in late December of 2020 and didn't have high hopes. I prayed about my search and meticulously read bios before swiping left or right. Eventually, I started to chat with a few dudes, but the conversations faded out. I got stood up once, but a very successful series of dates quickly overshadowed that event. One date resulted in an engagement/marriage. So, in summary: I downloaded Upward, met a man who aims to put God first, fell in love with him, and got married (in less than a year). Our timeline may be faster than yours, but hopefully, the results are similar. Thanks Upward ☺️— Ginabinabop
Mixed feelings. I love and dislike it.
I downloaded this during quarantine. I noticed you couldn't see who likes you unless you match. I wish there were a way to see who liked me. There may be people I skipped over and never noticed. I have matches, but people barely message on there. So, it's a little discouraging (maybe offer a video chat feature). Also, I noticed that there aren't that many Christian people, even though it's a Christian dating app. People are “spiritual” that don't consider themselves Christian… that's weird to me. I would think on a Christian Dating app that people dating are not casual. I've noticed some people are on there looking to get their freak on… like, go on Tinder. I'm sure the creators of the app have great intentions. I'm an African American woman and barely saw any black men. I don't discriminate and love them all, but it would be nice to see people like me. Most people are hunters, fishermen, etc. I love Jesus, but man, I am discouraged by who I see. In sum, can there be a paid feature about $2.99 to see who liked you? — Djkay9815
7. Christian Dating for Free
Christian Dating for Free (CDFF), owned by E Dating for Free, Inc., is a free online dating site for Christian singles. It’s available for iOS and Android devices and through a web browser like Google Chrome. Membership is 100% free and includes features like live chat and messaging. You can also see who is currently online.
You must completely fill out your profile to use the app. A picture is mandatory, though you can choose to hide it from your public profile if you wish. Christian Dating for Free draws users from all over the world.
Is Christian Dating for Free legit?
Yes, Christian Dating for Free is legit. To sign up, you’ll need to provide identifying information such as your email address, date of birth, mobile phone number, and geographic location. You can also sign up through Facebook or Apple.
However, CDDF doesn’t run background checks or screenings on its users. It claims to constantly monitor profiles for “indecent communication,” but encourages users to follow online dating safety rules1 and report any suspected scammers or con artists.
Is Christian Dating for Free really free?
Yes, Christian Dating for Free is really free. You can create an account and use it to connect with like-minded Christian singles without paying any money. However, you will see ads as you use the service. It’s how the site remains free.
If you wish to have an ad-free experience, you can sign up for an Elevate membership. It offers a verification badge on your profile, priority placement for your profile, unlimited messaging, notifications when your favorite users are online, and more.
For September 2025, Christian Dating for Free pricing:
1-month membership:
$39.99/month
3-month membership:
$16.66/month billed at $49.99
6-month membership:
$13.33/month billed at $79.99
CDFF pros:
Free
Easy to use
Lots of features in the free version
CDFF cons:
Must pay to remove ads
Claims of unresponsive customer service
Some users complain of scammers
Christian Dating for Free reviews
Christian Dating for Free is not currently rated or reviewed by users on the Better Business Bureau. It has a 1.5 rating on Trustpilot. It is rated 4.1/5 on the App Store, 3.6/5 on Google Play, and 1.0 on Sitejabber.
From the App Store:
Very simple and user friendly
I want to start off by saying that it’s a very simple app. When you get on. The layout is a very simple design, which can be a good or a ehhh not so good thing. It’s very easy to navigate, and see where to go from the main menu. It asks a decent amount of questions when you first set up the account, to make sure that your account accurately describes who you are and what you want people to know. Within my first few minutes on I had a few “winks” from people. I met a few friends and even joined a Christian chat. It is very interesting to say the least. It’s a very laid back app and great for Christians trying to find friends or partnerships or a listening ear that is religious just as they are. I give the app a 4 start just for the fact it’s still a very simple set up from my opinion. It’s great just wish it was a little more of a elegant design. I also enjoyed the fact I could see people who viewed me. It does however seem there is a few scammers making there way around on the app. As well as it seems to be mostly people in their Middle Ages. Overall I give this app a 4/5! — chrlug
Thank you
From Google Play:
I have been a member for almost 6 years on and off. It's a hollow shell now….It has so many ads…hookup ads, limited in communication, how many messages you can send, and how many people you can view and search…not to mention its not free like it was in the past. The app never used to be like this…it's gone downhill in its free functions to the user and has become money driven. — Joshua Lunz
Just downloaded the app. However, I am noticing some things that make the user experience a bit frustrating. First, ads pop up consistently, even when you're simply scrolling. I think you could allow them to watch a video and then get 5 minutes of unterruptible time. You can still require them to view ads if they want to see messages, winks, or their last time they were active. Second, people that are boosted, I assume the ones highlighted in yellow, appear consistently when scrolling. — Christopher Ball
From Sitejabber:
This is a free Christian Dating website. It lets you send messages to people on the site for free but then sometimes when you do sometimes it gives you a virus. I met a few guys on this site and things did not work out with them so I kept looking and two times when I sent messages to guys I clicked send and the website gave my laptop a virus! I emailed them about it and I got no good explanation for why and no apology. This is not a good site to use. It gives viruses. Not worth it. Try another dating site. — Anonymous A.
8. Christian Connection
Launched in 2000, Christian Connection is a London-based dating service with an international user base. The app is available on iOS, Android, and via computer browser. Christian Connection claims it’s helped 100,000+ people find love, friendship and even marriage.
The app received multiple awards from The Dating Awards, a dating industry-recognized award show that ran from 2014-2017. You can join and connect with new people with a free 3-day trial. After the trial, you’ll need a membership to get to know other users.
Is Christian Connection legit?
Yes, Christian Connection is legit. It’s been around for 20+ years and is a founding member of the Online Dating Association (ODA). The site is supported by other well-known ODA-affiliated dating apps including Hinge, Match, Tinder, and Elite Singles.
There is no profile verification or screening. You can sign up with a valid email address. Add your birth date, answer a few questions about your preferences, and you’ll have access. Christian Connection claims to monitor profiles daily to ensure real profiles.
How much does Christian Connection cost?
Christian Connection offers a free three-day trial to try the dating app. During or after the trial, you can upgrade to a paid membership to unlock all of Christian Connection’s features. If you decide not to upgrade, you will only have profile access. This means you can log in, search, wave, and upload photos but cannot communicate with other users.
Paid memberships have unlimited messaging, video chats, visibility of who is online, and more.
For September 2025, Christian Connection pricing:
1-month membership
$24.99/month
3-month membership
$17/month billed at $49.99
6-month membership
$13/month billed at $74.99
Christian Connection pros:
Free three-day trial
Affordable memberships
Easy-to-use site
Online and local meetup events
Christian Connection cons:
Free profile membership has few features
Users complain of inactive profiles
Restrictions on searching by age
Christian Connection reviews
Christian Connection does not currently have a profile with the BBB. It has 3.5/5 stars on Trustpilot, a 3.7/5 rating on Google Play and a 4.1/5 on the App Store.
From Trustpilot:
From Google Play:
Not bad. Interface isn't the most modern or hi-tech. You are not able to adjust your criteria unless you have a paid subscription, something that must be new since I last used it. Not able to respond to messages or matches unless you are subscribed either. I like the wave feature and there is a lot of space to put as much info on your profile as you would like. — Marcella Ferguson
I've had a fairly decent experience using this app, and I've been speaking with a lovely girl I met on the app for about a week at the time of writing. Both myself and the girl I'm speaking with have experienced terrible lagging with the app loading messages and the notifications not showing up on the app interface itself and or the text / email is often delayed by 10-15 minutes or longer which makes it difficult to have conversations. Disappointing considering we need to pay for the privilege.— Vincent Rodriguez
From the App Store:
Dead App
It’s built fine, but the only issue is that it is DEAD, everyone hasn’t been online in more then a month… unless the activity goes up there is no reason to join. Personally I would delete all profiles that haven’t been online in 3mo, that might help a bit, but it might be too late. Again it is coded well, but dead — TheFlagen430297
9. eharmony
While eharmony is not branded as a Christian dating site, its roots are in Christian, as founder Neil Clark Warren is a psychologist, Christian theologian and seminary professor who developed the app based on his belief in the value of partnership and marriage. A number of the 150+ questions as part of its compatibility test focus on religion, spirituality, morals and values.
Is eharmony legit?
eharmony is one of the oldest dating sites, and has long been accredited by the Better Business Bureau where it enjoys an A rating as of September 2025. The site is very active with hundreds of millions of members.
eharmony uses SMS (text message) verification to confirm the identity of its members. Members who use this verification feature have an SMS Verified symbol on their profile. eharmony also has a Trust & Safety Team that reviews profiles for legitimacy.
eharmony has proven success connecting singles with long-term partners, according to researchers at the University of Chicago and Harvard who conducted a study of marriages, breakups and divorces. The researchers broke down online dating site where the couple met, and found that couples who met on eharmony had the highest marriage rate, highest marriage satisfaction rate, and the lowest breakup and divorce rates. eharmony had the best results out of all the major dating sites:
25% of the more than 19,000 marriages studied by the University of Chicago started at eharmony
3.86% divorce rate, (vs. national U.S. average of ~50%, per Census data)
“How to stay safe on online dating apps,” Kaspersky https://usa.kaspersky.com/resource-center/preemptive-safety/dating-app-safety
What is the best Christian dating site?
Top popular features include convenience, portability, significant user base (less of an issue if you live near an urban center), quality/completeness of profiles, esthetic appeal, and sufficient free features to promote chatting, meeting, and mingling. If partnership is a priority in your dating, and you hope to meet a Christian, check out eharmony.com.
Overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff in your home? Are you relocating and managing the estate of someone who passed? Getting rid of old stuff — even very nice stuff — has become difficult.
Even thrift stores are overwhelmed with cast-off items and are getting picker and pickier about what they take.1
Wealthysinglemommy.com founder Emma Johnson faced this issue on several occasions: Moving out of her New York City apartment, she couldn't find any takers for a gorgeous Roche Bobois sectional and was forced to put it on the street.
Clearing out her mother's estate, lovely antiques, Lenox china and fine linens were given to Good Will. In both occasions, time and stress were of the essence.
“Both situations — relocating to another city, dealing with my mom's passing and her estate — was so overwhelming already,” Johnson said. “Scrounging around to find someone to take these very nice things really added to the burden. I was also stunned to realize that no one wants your stuff — no matter how nice you think it is.”
Fortunately, there are a lot of free and cheap junk disposal options.
Keep reading to learn about other junk hauling companies and places where you can donate or sell your items for cash:
AMVETS (American Veterans) is a nonprofit organization supporting veterans who have served in all branches of the U.S. military. The organization runs a chain of thrift stores that sell quality used clothing, household goods, and toys in communities throughout the country. Proceeds support programs that directly help U.S. veterans.
AMVETS also offers a convenient service when you’re looking to get rid of your used items: free pickup. Simply scroll the AMVETS Thrift Stores directory to find a location near you and schedule a pickup date and time. Each location will list items it needs, but you are welcome to get in touch to see if the organization will accept other donations not on the list.
The Buy Nothing Project is a global initiative started in 2013 that aims to reduce the impact of junk on the environment. Buy Nothing Facebook groups exist for communities around the world, where neighbors can gift items they no longer want to other people in their communities.
Note that you will not be able to make money off your possessions on Buy Nothing groups. Rather, everything offered is given freely with no money, barter, or strings attached.
To get started, download/join the BuyNothing app or search Facebook for a local Buy Nothing group and share photos of your unwanted items. Then wait to see if anyone in your community is interested in taking them off your hands.
Craigslist is helpful to both post your items for sale or free, especially or furniture and other large pieces that can’t easily be shipped or brought into a shop. Also check out our 27 sites like Craigslist.
When selling items online, there are some general best practices to keep in mind:
“Make sure to take clear photos of the item from different angles,” says Diana Bazic, founder of minimalismbasics.com, a website dedicated to simple living, downsizing, and decluttering. “It will make it much easier to sell things if potential buyers can see what they are buying.”
A Craigslist “curb alert” post will alert others in the community that you are leaving your used items outside on the curb, free for them to pick up.
Create a post under the “for sale/wanted,” “free stuff” category and write “Curb Alert” in the title, along with a description and photos of the items. Also include a general description of the location they will be placed at the curb, such as the cross streets near your home (don’t give out your home address for obvious reasons). Once the items have been taken, remove the ad from Craigslist so no one comes by it unnecessarily.
Similar to Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace allows you to sell your items directly to people in your community — or give it away free.
To visit the Marketplace, tap on the shop icon at the bottom of the Facebook app. Here you will see an option to list your items and start selling your things.
Simply upload a photo of your item, enter the product name, description, and price, confirm your location, select a category, and post. You can arrange to meet people locally or ship your items.
Furniture banks are nonprofit organizations that provide gently used household furnishings to families in need at little or no cost. The Furniture Bank Network can connect you with a local furniture bank near you.
Many organizations provide pick up and delivery service within a set radius and for a fee. If your donation is not accepted, furniture banks can work with you to help recycle your unwanted items to keep waste out of landfills.
Perhaps the most well-known chain of thrift stores, Goodwill is always a solid option when you need to downsize or make room for new items in your home.
Most Goodwills make house calls for furniture or other large items that are difficult to transport. Contact your local Goodwill to find out if they offer pick-up services in your community.
Goodwill and other organizations like the Salvation Army and Planet Aid also place donation bins outside of stores and other points of interest where you can drop off donated items.
Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept both small and large donations of new or gently used furniture, appliances, housewares, building materials, and household goods. The home improvement stores then resell these items, and the money raised helps families in need build affordable homes.
Many Habitat ReStores offer free pickup for large items. Contact your local ReStore to see if they offer this service, and arrange a time to get rid of your junk.
Local thrift stores
Thrift stores are typically run by charities and will give you a tax deduction receipt for your items. Generally, thrift shops will accept items that are less valuable though in good condition.
Pro tip: Call ahead to inquire about what thrift stores will take before showing up with a truckload of stuff. As more and more junk is produced in the world, these organizations are forced to be more and more selective.
Nextdoor is a social media platform that connects individuals, businesses, and organizations at the neighborhood level throughout the country. Through the platform, neighbors can exchange information, give and get help, and sell or give away unwanted items. It's known for catty gossip, but can also be helpful when you're clearing crap out of your home.
To post an item on Nextdoor, upload at least one photo of your item, include a description, set a price (or choose to give it away for free), and select a category. You can also choose if you want the ad to be visible only to your nearby neighborhoods or if you want to post it to your broader local area so neighbors a bit further away can see it. If your item doesn’t sell, you can alter the price.
If you’re having a tough time contacting local organizations to pick up your unwanted items, try PickUpMyDonation.com. This site acts as a middle man, serving as a connection point between donors and pickup providers.
Simply head to PickUpMyDonation.com, enter your zip code, and answer a few questions about your donations. If the service is able to connect you with a nonprofit that can pick up your items, you will be contacted to arrange a date and time. If none are available, you will be connected to a paid junk removal service.
PickUpPlease.org allows you to schedule a pickup of charitable contributions of clothing, shoes, books, household goods, jewelry, toys, electronics, and small appliances. In many locations throughout the U.S., pickups can be scheduled within 24 hours.
The Vietnam Veterans of America then sells donated items, and the proceeds fund its local, state, and national programs.
Donated goods to the Salvation Army are sold at their chain of thrift stores. Proceeds fund the organization’s Adult Rehabilitation Centers for those struggling with drug and alcohol disorders.
Many Salvation Army Thrift Stores offer free pickup. Contact your local store to arrange a pickup or head to the Salvation Army website to schedule a time online.
If your unwanted items aren’t fit to be donated or you can’t connect with a local charity, you’ll probably need to consider junk removal.
Below are four options for free or low-cost junk removal or cheap junk removal services:
1-800-GOT-JUNK?
1-800-GOT-JUNK is a full-service junk removal company that offers services across the United States and has a B+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Simply schedule a time, and representatives from the company will come to your home and do all the heavy lifting for you. Your junk will be donated or recycled where possible.
To determine how much it will cost to remove your junk, staff members will need to be able to access the items and determine how much space they’ll take up in their truck.
When they arrive at your home and look at your items, 1-800-GOT-JUNK will offer a quote. If you wish to move forward, 1-800-GOT-JUNK will remove your items, load their truck, and sweep up the area.
College Hunks Hauling Junk is a team of young men who come straight to your door and remove old furniture, appliances, electronics, yard waste, and most other junk you have accumulated over the years.
The company is committed to removing non-hazardous junk in an eco-friendly way, reporting that 70% of all items removed are donated or recycled.
College Hunks Hauling Junk operates a pricing-per-volume model by how much room your junk takes up in their truck. You will be given a price after team members assess your junk, and you can choose whether or not to move forward with the removal
Junk King claims they will beat any written estimate from a competitor. Their website also states they recycle up to 60% of every job to keep waste out of landfills.
In addition to on-site pricing (when reps come to your home and assess how much removing your stuff will cost), you can get an online price estimate based on the number of items or volume of your junk.
You can also text a photo of your junk to 737-888-5865 to receive an estimate by text, or call 1-888-888-JUNK to talk to a customer service rep.
If you’re renovating, landscaping, or doing other projects around your home and have accumulated a large amount of waste, consider Waste Management Bagster. This service comes to your home to collect your junk and trash so you don’t have to worry about transporting it to a recycling center or dumpster.
Simply buy a Bagster bag at your local home improvement store, fill it with your junk (each bag can hold up to 3,300 pounds of debris or waste), and schedule a time for pickup. To find local retailers, check out the Waste Management Bagster’s directory.
Search for “junk haulers near me” or “junk removal near me”
The quickest way to find junk removal services in your area is to Google “junk haulers near me” or “junk removal near me.” Check out this map to find out how to get rid of junk in your area:
Where to sell your junk
If you have time and inclination, it may be worth trying to sell your item for some cash before ultimately giving it away. Start with these guides:
If you have electronics you’re looking to get rid of (even if they are broken), consider selling to CashforElectronicsUSA.com, whose parent company, CJ Environmental, has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.
The company accepts:
Computers
Laptops
LCD monitors
Scanners
It also accepts any non-hazardous materials, such as parts of cell phones, motherboards, and hard drives. Accepted metals include:
Payouts vary depending on the manufacturer and condition of the items. Contact CashforElectronicsUSA to speak with a representative and send photos of your items for a quote.
CashforElectronicsUSA offers free waste collection services in New England and the Tri-State area. Those who live in other parts of the country have the option to ship their unwanted electronics.
Consignment shops
If your items are in good enough condition to sell, consignment shops can be a solid option. These stores, which can be online or IRL, sell secondhand goods on behalf of the original owner, who receives a percentage of the selling price (or money upfront).
While the process of selling on consignment can vary depending on the shop, generally, you will bring your clothing, accessories, appliances, or furniture to the store, and the shop will decide whether or not they want to take them. For larger items, you may be able to bring in photos.
In-person consignment shops with locations throughout the United States include:
Selling your unwanted items on eBay is another option to consider. Since you’ll need to send the items through the post office, they should be easy to ship. To get the best bang for your buck on eBay, it helps if you have items that buyers can’t find locally.
You can choose whether you want to accept bids for your items in an auction-style listing or set your listing to “Buy It Now,” which allows buyers to purchase your item directly for a set price.
In either option, ship the item to the buyer quickly. Sellers are charged fees when listing and selling items on eBay, 12.9% of the sale price or lower for most categories, plus $0.30 per order.
Garage sale or yard sale
If you’re trying to figure out how to get rid of junk, an old-fashioned garage or yard sale is still a good option. You could even consider posting that everything on offer is free.
When planning a yard sale, the key to success is getting the word out ahead of time.
“Put up signs around your neighborhood, and list your sale on online classifieds websites and in local newspapers,” Bazic says. You can also create a Facebook event and invite people you know to share.
It’s also important to be organized, pricing items ahead of time and setting up your items in an easy-to-navigate layout.
Bazic suggests starting early, as yard sales are typically most successful in the mornings.
Finally, be friendly to customers, have a lot of change on hand, and don’t be afraid of haggling. “Most people expect to haggle at yard sales, so don't be afraid to negotiate on prices,” Bazic says. “If you still have items left at the end of the day, consider reducing prices to get rid of them.” Or, give stragglers your items for free in exchange for hauling the junk off the property.
Pawn shops
A pawn shop can be a quick way to sell your used items for cash. There are very few things you can’t sell at a pawn shop, but when you bring your goods to the shop, the pawnbroker will decide what they want to buy.
You can expect to receive 25-60% of the retail value of your item from the pawnbroker.
Bottom line: How do I get rid of unwanted junk?
If you have a lot of junk in your home, getting rid of it can do wonders for your home and life. If you need to get rid of a lot of junk quickly, call one of the above services or seek out affordable Dumpster rentals.
SOURCES
“Sorry, Nobody Wants Your Parents' Stuff,” Forbes, by Richard Eisenberg, Feb. 12, 2017 https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2017/02/12/sorry-nobody-wants-your-parents-stuff/?sh=5688638824ed
How do I get rid of unwanted junk?
If you have a lot of junk in your home, getting rid of it can do wonders for your home and life. If you need to get rid of a lot of junk quickly, we recommend calling 1-800-GOT-JUNK to haul and remove it.
According to research from career site Zippia,1 only 18% of people in the United States earn $100,000 per year or more.
However, you don’t need to have a doctorate or even a college education to get one of these high-paying jobs.
We put together a list of common and lesser-known six-figure jobs, including some high-paying remote jobs.
Most of the jobs on this list do not require formal training, though it might make sense to obtain a certification to improve your marketability. Learn about going back to school at 30 or 40.
Coursera has 7,000+ courses that can be completed in less than six months for just $39 a month after a 7-day free trial.
The salaries listed in this article reflect the high-end job earnings from Ziprecruiter and comparable career sites when Ziprecruiter data was unavailable:
Commercial AC repair technician
Salary potential: $120,797
Rather than working with residential clients, these air conditioning mechanics focus on commercial projects.
One Reddit user repairs broken AC units in hospitals and skyscrapers and claims to earn more than $100,000:
Professionals in the industry say the industry norm is to start as an apprentice and receive on-the-job training from a specific company:
Job growth: AC repair technician jobs are expected to grow at a pace of 5% through 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook2. That amounts to more than 40,000 expected job openings per year. The primary driver for this growth is likely to be new construction projects, but ongoing maintenance will also be needed.
Certifications: States have specific licensing requirements, but you can also earn additional certification from certain trade associations, including:
North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification ($50 exam)
EPA 608 certification for handling refrigerants ($85 exam)
Digital content managers are responsible for raising brand awareness for a company. Your job might involve analyzing web traffic and metrics to develop a content strategy and attract the right audience to the company’s site.
Workingprofessionals in this field say experience and skill certifications are more important than a degree for many companies.
One Reddit user who dropped out of college stressed the importance of real-world experience:
While larger companies may require a degree, professionals in this field recommend applying with startups and small businesses if you do not have one. Alternatively, you can start your own digital content agency to secure clients based on a portfolio of your work rather than your educational background.
Reddit users offered this advice to a content manager who was being rejected by companies because of his lack of a formal education:
Job growth: Media and communication job opportunities are expected to grow 6% from 2021-2031, which is about as fast as average for all jobs. About 68,600 jobs are expected to be available over the decade.
Certifications: Several people on Reddit who hire digital marketing professionals say it’s beneficial to have certifications listed on your resume:
There are lots of digital marketing certificates available, including a joint certification offered by the Digital Marketing Institute and American Marketing Association for $1,442.
There are also free options, like:
LinkedIn Learning’s digital marketing course (which is listed on your profile upon completion)
Google’s Marketing Platform and Analytics Academy
Meta Blueprint’s courses on Facebook marketing
One Reddit user suggested taking a free class through an accredited university:
Freelance writer
Salary Potential: $165,000+
Freelance writers are self-employed writers who work on a contract basis for websites, blogs, social media accounts, and print publications.
Focus on creating a strong portfolio to show potential clients. Most are more interested in your writing samples than your education or even your resume. In my own experience as a freelance writer, I can attest that most clients don’t require a formal resume or cover letter to apply.
These Reddit users became freelance writers without a college degree:
Job growth: Job opportunities for writers and authors is expected to grow 4%, which is about as fast as average. About 15,200 job openings are expected annually, on average, over the decade.
Certifications: The general consensus among freelance writers is that experience and clips are more important than a certification in this field:
Logisticians
Salary potential: $122,390
Logisticians coordinate supply chain activities, such as managing purchases, delivery, and inventory. This Reddit thread reveals many industry employees making well over $100,000, plus bonuses and stock options:
Job growth: The logistics industry is on track to grow exponentially in the years ahead, thanks to the continued demand of e-commerce. Logistician positions will grow 28% through 2031, resulting in 24,800 job openings each year.
Certifications: There are several certification programs available in the logistics and supply chain industry. Reddit user MedEng3 recommends the following:
CPIM: from the Association for Supply Chain Management; cost: $1,190 (exam only)
Lean Manufacturing: Waste elimination in both physical and transactional processes from SME; cost: $439 to $599
Six Sigma: Variation reduction, manufacturing focus – from The Council of Six Sigma Certification; cost: $229 to $349
PMP: Project management from The Project Management Institute; cost: $405 to $555
Makeup artist
Salary Potential: $119,500+
Makeup artists use cosmetics and other beauty products to enhance their clients’ appearances. They typically work in the fashion, beauty, film, wedding, photography, and television industries.
While licensing may be required in some states, you can add to those skills by learning on YouTube.
In addition to practice, Reddit user Veganmua recommends, “[watching] YouTube tutorials of actual make-up artists (rather than enthusiasts) of all skin colors and eye shapes.”
Job growth: Job opportunities for barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists are expected to increase 11% from 2021-2031. Approximately 93,800 jobs are expected annually on average.
Certifications: You can search online directories for beauty schools in your area or search “beauty schools near me” on Google:
Massage Therapist
Salary Potential: $113,000
Massage therapists use therapeutic touch and pressure on the soft tissues of the body to help relieve pain and stress and promote healing and general wellness.
43% of massage therapists are self-employed, while the other 57% work for employers such as chiropractors and other healthcare practitioners.
To get a job as a massage therapist, you typically need:
High school diploma or equivalent to qualify for training programs
Training from a state-approved massage therapy program (a one-year program costs between $3,000 and $15,000)
Successfully pass a licensing exam
Complete a background check, maintain liability insurance, and become CPR-certified (these costs may be covered by your employer, but it’s smart to check)
Continuing education credits and licensing renewal might be required (costs may be covered by employer)
Job growth: Job opportunities for massage therapists are expected to increase by 20% from 2021-2031, which is much faster than average for all occupations. On average, about 25,200 openings for massage therapists are expected over the decade.
Certifications: Each state has its own certification and licensure requirements. 44 out of 50 states also require the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) as part of the approval process. You can also get an additional certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork ($275).
Some massage therapists on Reddit, however, didn’t see the value of this additional certification:
However, another massage therapist on Reddit said that having the additional certification helped get jobs and navigate their massage school losing accreditation:
Nuclear technician
Salary potential: $180,000+
A nuclear technician assists scientists and engineers by operating testing and research at nuclear plants.
A Reddit user reports senior technicians earning as much as $180,000 per year. Plus, nuclear technicians may enjoy higher spending power due to lower costs of living in rural areas where these plants tend to be located.
Job growth: The outlook for nuclear technicians is actually on the decline as traditional energy sources are replaced with more renewable options. However, as technicians retire, existing facilities will need new workers for maintenance and upgrades. Expect about 400 job openings each year through 2031 (a 17% overall decline).
Certifications: There are a few different industry certifications available for nuclear technicians:
The Nuclear Energy Institute: Offers multiple specialized trainings (cost varies; $179 t $359)
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing: Provides Industrial Radiography and Radiation Safety Personnel certification ($640 to $720)
The National Registry of Radiation Protection Technicians: Offers an exam for membership ($300).
Power-line installer and repairer
Salary potential: $114,590
Electrical power-line technicians work on installing and repairing poles and transmission towers. In a Reddit thread on six-figure careers, a user described their job as “fixing and building power-lines and playing with high-voltage electricity.”
Like AC repair, power-line work requires vocational training, which may involve becoming an apprentice for a specific company you eventually work for.
Job growth: The outlook for power-line installer and repairer jobs are on par with the national average, with a 6% growth rate anticipated through 2023. Expect about 23,500 new job openings each year, particularly as older employees retire.
Certifications: Optional certifications are available through BICSI (for installers and repairers), Electrical Training ALLIANCE (for specialized training), and The Fiber Optic Association (for telecommunications lines).
Programmer
Salary Potential: $111,000+
Programmers create, edit, and test the scripts and code required for computer programs to run correctly.
Programmers need experience writing code, specifically Python and SQL; testing programs; and correcting errors.
To get a job, professional programmers recommend building a portfolio of completed projects. You can start with freelance gigs through sites like Fivrr and Upwork.
One Reddit user offered an extensive overview of how to get a programming job:
Job growth: Even though job opportunities for computer programmers are expected to decline 10% from 2021-2031, 9,600 job openings are expected annually, on average.
Certifications: There are several online coding classes to help you become a programmer. Harvard offers a free online Introduction to Computer Science class, with the option to get a verified certificate for $189. The self-paced course takes 11 weeks if you complete about 10 hours per week.
Teaching platforms like Udemy also have specific skills courses available at a range of prices. You can take coding classes on subjects like Python and CSS.
Real estate agent
Salary Potential: $200,000+
Real estate agents are licensed professionals who represent buyers or sellers in real estate transactions, helping them market their properties and negotiate sales contracts. Agents can work with residential or commercial properties.
While requirements vary by state and jurisdiction, real estate agents must go through a training course and pass a licensing exam to work with clients.
Real estate agents are not salaried, but rather earn commission on the sale of a home, typically between 3% and 6% of the final sale price. If you work for a brokerage like Keller Williams or Berkshire Hathaway, you’ll split that commission with your broker (50/50, 60/40, and 70/30 are common splits — the more experience/sales you have, the higher your percentage).
You can also obtain a broker’s license to branch out on your own or start your own brokerage employing other agents.
Experienced agents recommend having at least six months of living expenses saved up before you obtain a license, since it can take some time to build a client base and get paid for your first sale. Some brokerages will provide you with a list of leads and additional training upon joining.
Job growth: Employment opportunities for real estate agents are expected to grow 5% from 2021-2031, which is about the average for all jobs. About 23,100 jobs are expected to be available over the decade.
Certifications: Licensing requirements for real estate agents vary by state. In California, for instance, the training takes 135 hours and costs around $305 for registration and examination fees.
Compare that to a smaller state like Delaware, which only requires 99 hours of training and costs $180 to get a license.
Sales consultant
Salary Potential: $109,000
Sales consultants are professionals who help a business or individual increase sales revenue by providing advice, guidance, and support on sales-related issues. They also research and identify potential customers to create marketing campaigns and sales pitches.
Many Reddit users recommend enterprise software sales as a path to multi-six figure salaries. But there are non-technical options out there, as well.
This Reddit thread provides a lot of ideas for six-figure sales industries, including some that might surprise you:
Job growth: Job opportunities across all sales occupations, including sales consultants, are expected to show very little change. About 1.9 million openings across all sales occupations are expected each year from 2021-2031.
Certifications: While it is possible to take sales courses, many pros recommend improving your skills on the job and working your way up to more lucrative industries.
Truck driver
Salary Potential: $158,500
Truck drivers transport cargo across short and long distances. Learn more about what it takes to become a truck driver.
If you plan to drive a commercial truck, you first have to obtain a commercial drivers license. Most drivers attend a driving school or other program. Costs range from $3,000 to $10,000.
Drivers also have to pass a physical exam every two years and maintain a clean driving record.
These are some of the top trucking employers in the U.S.:
UPS
Fedex
J.B. Hunt
XPO Logistics
Landstar System
Swift
Old Dominion Freight Line
Schneider
YRC Worldwide
ARCBEST
Estes Express
C.R. England
Werner Enterprises
You can also find trucking jobs without a CDL if you drive a truck that weighs 26,000 pounds or less (like box trucks and Amazon delivery vehicles).
Job growth: Job opportunities for truck drivers are expected to grow 4% from 2021-2031, which is about as fast as average. About 259,900 job openings are expected over the decade.
Certificates: Training for truck drivers can take anywhere from three weeks to six months depending on the type of license you’re obtaining. Some companies will pay you to get your license as long as you sign a contract to work for that company for a set period of time.
Virtual assistant
Salary Potential: $108,500
Virtual assistants are typically self-employed workers who provide administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients remotely. Job duties might involve answering emails, managing schedules and posting to social media accounts.
Be strategic with your pricing and packages to earn as much as possible. Reddit users offer advice on reaching $10,000 per month, particularly by offering niche services:
Job growth: Overall job opportunities for secretaries and administrative assistants is expected to decline 8% from 2021-2031. However, 345,000 openings are expected on average each year over the decade.
Certifications: There are online virtual assistant courses to help you launch into this career, though most are just designed by established VAs.
While some VAs say they learned valuable information from these courses, others say you can find and learn everything you need to know for free, especially if you already have administrative experience.
Web developers use programming languages, web development tools and frameworks to create websites and enable functionality.
It’s possible to learn web development skills without a computer science degree. Reddit user EasyDescription-915, a front-end developer, recommends YouTube and Udemy courses and offers specific recommendations:
“Some people that helped me on my journey are Colt Steele (helped with React), Web Dev Simplified (helped with JS), Kevin Powell (Critical for CSS), Dev ed (JS, animation, design), and Design Course (UI/UX material).”
Job growth: Job opportunities for web developers and digital designers are expected to grow 23% over the decade or much faster than average. From 2021-2031, about 21,800 job openings are expected on average.
Certifications: Certifications may not be necessary, especially as you build a strong portfolio of work. But there are some you can take to bolster your resume. Here is one recommendation from Reddit user Fast-Wind251, in response to this query:
“Certifications by respected bodies, and where you need to take an exam, are good things to have. These are a few that would be relevant as a developer:
Certified Web Developer (CIW)
ISTQB Certified Tester
Certified Scrum Developer (CSD)
Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
Linux Professional Institute (LPI)
AWS Certified Developer
Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
Certified Kubernetes Application Developer
Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Developer (If you do Java)
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA):
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
“While a lot of these aren't specifically web development, they are related and relevant skills, and they will give you an advantage over others that don't have them.”
Airline pilot
Salary potential: $202,180+
Airline pilots fly aircraft such as planes and helicopters. In addition to navigating the aircraft in the cockpit, pilots are responsible for checking the condition of the aircraft and communicating with air traffic control. Some major airlines, like Delta, have dropped their four-year degree requirements.
There is currently a nationwide shortage of commercial airline pilots. Some airlines and airplane manufacturers like Boeing are offering incentives, including scholarships toward flight training.
In particular, there is a push toward recruiting more women and minorities to the profession.
Job growth: Expect steady job growth for airline and commercial pilots in the years ahead. 6% growth through 2031 amounts to 18,000 jobs added each year. One area of greatest need is pilots in ambulatory services who transfer patients to health care centers by air.
Certifications: To become a pilot, you have to:
Complete flight training (either private or through an airline affiliate you plan to work for); costs range from $76,000 to $97,000
Earn their private pilot license and then their commercial pilot license
Earn private then commercial pilot certificate (1,500 hours of flight time plus exams, which typically takes about two years)
Medical exam (including 20/20 vision)
The first step is to get a private pilot certificate, followed by the commercial pilot certificate, and finally the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification.
Six-figure jobs with four-year degree
These careers will likely require at least a bachelor’s degree:
Art director
Salary potential: $151,000
Art directors manage a team of designers and artists to ensure projects are completed according to a brand’s aesthetic. Advertising and marketing agencies hire art directors to oversee clients in a range of industries.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, design or communication technology (recommended but not required)
Five or more years of work experience in an art or design occupation
Real-life advertising professionals agree that a minimum of five years experience is standard for reaching art director level.
“Typically the standard and experience required for an AD is at least that of a senior, so minimum 5 years, usually more though in the range of 7-10,” says Reddit user moreexclamationmarks.
Job growth: Art director opportunities are expected to grow 4% up to 2031, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 13,400 job openings are projected for each year on average.
Environmental engineer
Salary potential: $119,500
Environmental engineers research and develop solutions to environmental issues, such as waste management, water quality, air pollution and public health concerns.
The majority of environmental engineers work full time. However if you are in charge of managing a project, you may work more than 40 hours.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in environmental, chemical, civil or general engineering
Practical experience from a cooperative engineering program or an internship
Job growth: Job opportunities for environmental engineers are expected to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, which is about as fast as average for all occupations. On average, about 3,400 job openings are expected each year.
Financial manager
Salary potential: $144,000
Financial managers oversee the finances of individuals and various organizations, including banks, insurance agencies, and investment firms.
Financial managers usually work full time, and some put in more than 40 hours each week.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in an area such as finance, economics, or business administration
At least five years of on-the-job experience in a business or financial occupation, such as an accountant, financial analyst, or auditor
Job growth: Job opportunities for financial managers will grow about 17% up to 2031, which is much faster than the average job growth. It’s expected that 71,300 financial manager jobs will be available each year.
Funeral home director
Salary potential: $115,645
Funeral home directors provide funeral services and assist families in making arrangements for a deceased loved one. They also prepare bodies for burial or cremation.
Funeral home directors typically work full time and often must respond at odd hours, including during evenings and weekends, due to the nature of their work.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in mortuary science, psychology, or business (an associate’s degree in funeral service or mortuary science education might be acceptable)
Receive a passing score on a state and/or national board exam to become licensed
Complete an internship of one to three years
Regularly complete continuing education hours to maintain licensing in some states
Job growth: Job opportunities for funeral directors are expected to grow 8%, or faster than average, from 2021-2031. About 7,900 job openings are expected each year on average.
Market research analyst
Salary potential: $117,500
Market research analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help businesses make informed decisions about their marketing strategies.
Market research analysts generally work full time during standard business hours.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in market research or another field, such as business, communications, or economics. Leadership roles may require a master’s degree.
An internship or volunteer experience doing market research could be helpful.
Industry-specific certification from the Insights Association, while voluntary, could also be helpful. The Market Research Online Course from the University of Georgia, for instance, costs between $1,595 and $1,795 and must be completed within 12 months.
Job growth: Job opportunities for market research analysts are expected to grow 19% from 2021-2031, which is much faster than average. On average, approximately 99,800 job opportunities are expected each year.
Product manager
Salary potential: $159,000
Product managers are responsible for overseeing the development, launch, and ongoing improvement of products. They are responsible for driving the success of the products they manage, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that the product meets customer needs and business objectives. Typical job duties include:
Defining product vision and strategy
Collaborating with engineering and design teams
Managing product launches and monitoring product performance
Product managers usually work full time but sometimes must work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or finance
Industry-recognized product management certification might be required
Job growth: Specific data for product managers is not available. However, overall employment growth in management occupations from 2021 to 2031 is projected at 8%, or faster than average for all occupations, with 883,900 new jobs available.
Public relations manager
Salary potential: $129,500
Public relations managers create and maintain a positive image of their client, which involves managing communications and relationships with the media, stakeholders, and the public. Typical job duties include:
Develop and execute public relations strategies designed to improve the image and reputation of the company
Build relationships with the media to pitch stories and promote client’s brand
Track the results of PR strategies and reporting those results to an organization’s executives
Public relations managers usually work full time, and often work extended hours.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communication or business or a master’s degree in public relations, nonprofit management or fundraising
Several years of experience as a PR specialist, fundraiser or related position
Job growth: Public relations manager opportunities are expected to grow faster than average for all occupations — approximately 8% — until 2031. About 9,100 openings are expected each year.
Six-figure jobs with an advanced degree
These jobs will require a master’s degree or doctorate:
Computer scientist
Salary potential: $161,870
A computer scientist creates solutions for both hardware and software. They design computer architecture across a range of industries, including business, science, and medicine.
Education/job training requirements:
A master’s degree or Ph.D in computer science or information systems
Additional specializations may be helpful to work in certain industries (such as studying biology to work in biomedical applications)
Job growth: The outlook for computer scientists is strong, with a 21% growth rate expected though 2031. That equates to 3,300 new jobs added each year, with a particular need in cybersecurity.
Human resources manager
Salary potential: $116,000
Human resources managers oversee a company’s recruitment, staffing, and benefits and compensation packages.
Human resources managers typically work 40 hours per week, but some positions require longer hours.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field, such as business, communications or psychology
Master’s degree in human resources or a related field may be required for some positions
Job growth: Opportunities for human resource managers are expected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, which is as fast as expected for all occupations. About 16,300 job openings are expected each year up to 2023.
School principal
Salary potential: $100,500
School principals manage the staff and operations of a school while providing educational leadership and fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
School principals typically work full time, even in the summer. They may also have to work some evening and weekend hours due to school functions or events.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or a related field
Master’s degree in education leadership or administration
Several years of experience in a related occupation, such as teaching
Complete a licensing or certification exam (required in some states; $350 to $375 for the ETS Performance Assessment for School Leaders)
Background check
Job growth: Job opportunities for school principals are expected to grow at a rate of 5%, or as fast as average for all occupations, until 2031. On average, about 23,500 job openings for elementary, middle and high school principals are expected each year.
Health care careers that pay six figures:
There are numerous health care careers that pay over six figures, and not all require an advanced degree. Here are some potential options:
Dental hygienist
Salary potential: $121,000
Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who examine patients to identify oral diseases and provide preventative care. Typical job duties:
Perform teeth cleanings, taking X-rays, and providing preventative care to patients
Educate patients on proper dental hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing techniques, and providing advice on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums
Document patient care, including dental histories, treatments provided, and any changes in oral health
Dental hygienists mostly work part time, and some choose to work for more than one dentist.
Education/job training requirements:
Associate’s degree in dental hygiene from a school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation
Job growth: Job opportunities are expected to grow 9% from 2021-2031, which is much faster than average for all occupations. About 16,300 job openings are expected each year over the decade.
Medical writer
Salary potential: $176,500
If you’re looking for writing jobs that pay over $100K, a medical writer is responsible for producing various types of written content related to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. Typical job duties include:
Writing content for healthcare news articles, websites or magazines
Writing clinical research documents
Writing journal manuscripts and abstracts
Writing educational and promotional literature related to medical conditions or drugs
Medical writers generally work full time but might also have to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field, such as biology or chemistry
Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism or communications might also be considered with related work experience or on-the-job training
Continuing education and certificates in medical writing from the American Medical Association are not required but can be helpful in demonstrating competence
Job growth: Employment for medical writers is expected to grow 6% from 2021-2031, which is about as fast as average for all occupations. Around 5,400 job openings for medical writers are expected each year on average.
Nurse anesthetist
Salary potential: $240,500
Nurse anesthetists are responsible for administering anesthesia and other medications to patients undergoing surgery or other medical interventions. Typical job duties include:
Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive safe and effective care
Conduct preoperative assessments of patients to determine the appropriate type and amount of anesthesia to administer
Administer anesthesia and other medications to patients during surgical and medical procedures
Monitor patients' vital signs and adjusting medication dosages as needed
Nurse anesthetists typically work full-time shifts and work hours may be scheduled for evenings, weekends and holidays.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor's degree in nursing
Registered nurse license
At least one year of experience working as an RN in an acute care setting, such as an intensive care unit
Completion of an accredited nurse anesthesia program to earn a Master's degree or a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree
Successful completion of the National Certification Examination for Nurse Anesthetists, which is administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists
Job growth: From 2021-2031, job growth for advanced practice registered nurses, which includes nurse anesthetists, is expected to grow 40% each year or much faster than average. About 30,200 job openings are expected each year on average.
Nurse practitioner
Salary potential: $165,000
Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who are licensed to provide healthcare services under the supervision of a physician. The typical job duties of a nurse practitioner include:
Assess patients, creating treatment plans and providing patient education
Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, doctors and pharmacists
Monitor patient progress and providing ongoing support
Update medical records for patients in their care
Nurse practitioners typically work full time. If they work in a physician’s office, they usually work normal business hours. If they work in a hospital, they work shifts, which can include nights, weekends and on-call availability.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in nursing with a registered nursing license (some schools offer alternative paths)
Nurse practitioner-focused master’s degree
Certification as a nurse practitioner to gain licensing
Job growth: From 2021-2031, job growth for advanced practice registered nurses, which includes nurse practitioners, is expected to grow 40% each year or much faster than average. About 30,200 job openings are expected each year on average.
Occupational therapist
Salary potential: $165,000
Occupational therapists are health care professionals who help disabled, injured or ill people of all ages develop or recover the skills necessary to complete their daily activities at home and work.
Occupational therapists normally work full time but may work evenings and weekends to meet the needs of their patients.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in healthcare or a related field
Master’s degree in occupational therapy from a school accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education
24 weeks of supervised fieldwork to gain clinical experience
Job growth: Job opportunities for occupational therapists are expected to grow 14% from 2021-2031, which is much faster than average. About 10,100 job openings are expected each year.
Optometrist
Salary potential: $174,000
Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing vision and eye health problems.Typical job duties include:
Conduct eye exams
Prescribe corrective lenses
Treat eye conditions
Work with ophthalmologists to provide pre- and post-operative care
Optometrists typically work full time and may work evenings or weekends to accommodate patients.
Education/job training requirements:
Bachelor’s degree, typically in biology or physical science
Four-year Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited school
One-year residency program (may not be required in some states)
Completion of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry exam to gain licensing
Continuing education hours and periodic renewal of license
Job growth: Job opportunities for optometrists are expected to grow 10%, or faster than average for all occupations until 2031. About 1,700 job openings are expected, on average, per year.
Physical therapist
Salary potential: $146,000
Physical therapists play a critical role in helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and improve their physical function and quality of life. Typical job duties:
Evaluate patients' physical conditions and medical histories to develop personalized treatment plans
Use a variety of techniques, such as exercise, manual therapy and equipment to help patients improve their mobility, flexibility, strength, and balance
Educate patients and their families about their conditions, treatment options, and self-care techniques to improve their outcomes and prevent future injuries
Physical therapists work either full or part time, and hours may include evenings and weekends to accommodate patients
Education/job training requirements:
Complete a bachelor's degree program in a related field, such as biology or exercise science
Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree program from an accredited institution
Completion of clinical internships and other supervised training programs to gain hands-on experience and develop clinical skills
Successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy
Licensure as a physical therapist in the state where they intend to practice
Job growth: From 2021-2031, opportunities for physical therapists are expected to grow 17%, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. About 15,400 openings are expected, on average, each year.
How to make $100,000 a year
Matthew Warzel, a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and president of MJW Careers3, is a former recruiter for Fortune 500 companies like GM and Ford. He offers this advice for people who want to make six figures or more:
1. Research industries and jobs that pay well
Warzel says if you want a high-paying job, you should research in-demand careers and salaries on sites like:
Glassdoor
Payscale
Salary.com
Linkedin Salary
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
According to jobs site Indeed4, these are six of the highest-paying industries:
Health care
Engineering
Information technology
Finance
Mining, resources, and energy
Legal
2. Pursue new certifications
Certifications serve as proof to employers that you have specialized knowledge and skills in a field or industry, which can help you land a job and increase your earning potential.
However, Warzel cautions that you should carefully research:
Need/demand for certification in your industry
Cost of certification and potential return on investment
Credibility of the certifying organization
He suggests reaching out to professionals in your chosen field to gain insight into the value of the certification and its impact on hiring.
“Pursuing a certification that isn't recognized by employers or is oversaturated in the job market may not yield the desired results,” he says.
Warzel says you should wait to negotiate your salary until you’ve received a formal job offer.
However, you should prepare in advance. Here are some tips to help you be successful:
Research salary data for the job you’ve been offered. Warzel recommends job seekers do their research on industry standards, company culture, and the value they bring to the organization to determine a salary range that’s appropriate.
Decide on a salary range rather than a single number. When the time comes to negotiate, Warzel says it is generally better to offer a salary range rather than a single number. He says this allows for more flexibility in the negotiation process and acknowledges the fact that there may be room for negotiation.
Rehearse how you will present the salary information. Quote your desired salary range and present supporting facts from your salary data research to back up your numbers. Warzel says that you should also focus on highlighting your skills, experience and unique value proposition to the company. Being confident, respectful, and open to compromise can also help increase your chances of a successful negotiation.
Stay upbeat and confident. Confidence is key when negotiating salary. If you seem unsure about your worth, the hiring manager will be, too. Warzel says employers may not make their best salary offer to begin with, so don’t be afraid to ask for more than is initially offered.
“However, be respectful and professional in your negotiation, and avoid being confrontational or demanding,” he says.
Consider compensation beyond salary. If the salary you’re offered after negotiating isn’t quite what you were hoping, consider other negotiating points. Warzel says you can negotiate bonuses, stock options, or extra vacation days as a way to increase the value of the job offer.
Be prepared to walk away. If your goal is to earn six figures, a salary offer that’s not even in the ballpark will delay your progress. As long as you’ve researched your worth and the reality of making six figures in your role, there’s no reason you should settle for less. Be persistent, but walk away if it’s clear you’ve reached the end of the negotiations.
4. Seek to have multiple streams of income or side hustles
Earning six figures might require multiple streams of income. If you have time in your schedule, you can start a side hustle, rather than just relying on your full-time job to get there.
In 2022, Lending Tree5 conducted a survey of consumers with side hustles and found that parents with kids younger than 18 earn an average of $533 per month (or $6,396 annually) from their side gigs.
Warzel says that side hustles and additional income streams can be a great way to supplement a full-time job and increase earning potential. But he cautions that you should carefully manage your time and prioritize your responsibilities so that the side hustle does not interfere with your regular job performance or personal life.
“By building a strong personal brand,” Warzel says, “you can establish yourself as a valuable and credible professional in your field and increase your chances of reaching your salary goals.”
These are Warzel’s recommendations for successfully building your personal brand:
Be clear about your unique value proposition. Warzel says to ask yourself what sets you apart from others in your field and what unique skills, experiences, or perspectives you bring to the table.
“Knowing your unique value proposition can help you communicate your strengths and stand out in a crowded job market,” he says.
Create a professional website or portfolio. Warzel says that creating a website or portfolio to showcase your work and accomplishments can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise while building your personal brand.
Use social media strategically. Warzel recommends using social media to engage with your target audience, share relevant content, and demonstrate your expertise, which will all help you build credibility and establish yourself as a thought leader in your field.
Seek out opportunities to speak or write about your area of expertise. “Speaking at conferences, writing articles or blog posts, or appearing as a guest on podcasts or webinars can be great ways to demonstrate your expertise and build your personal brand,” Warzel says.
Be consistent in your messaging and branding. Your messaging, visual branding, and online presence should all align with the personal brand you want to create.
“How many people make over 100K per year?” Jan. 18, 2023. Zippia. https://www.zippia.com/advice/how-many-people-make-over-100k/#:~:text=To%20find%20out%20more%20about,over%20%24100k%20per%20year.
Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistic. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
“Side hustlers on the Rise, and Nearly 70% say they’re more reliant on the extra income due to inflation.” December 5th, 2022. Lending Tree. https://www.lendingtree.com/debt-consolidation/side-hustlers-survey/
