Economics careers are projected to be in high demand in 2025, making it a promising career choice for recent graduates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment of economists is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033 and about 1,000 new openings for economists are projected each year.
Several key factors contributing to this growth include robust job market growth and positive employment predictions—6.7 million new jobs to be exact. Economists will play a huge role in navigating the evolving U.S. economic landscape and supporting the growth of employment.
Additionally, competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities make economics a compelling field. The median annual wage for economists was $115,730 in May 2023, with the top 10% earning over $216,900.
What you choose to do with this degree depends greatly on your interests and focuses. The analytical and quantitative skills developed through an economics degree are highly valued across industries, including finance, consulting, real estate, healthcare, and much more.
Here are 10 of the most in-demand economics-related careers:
1. Actuary
Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to analyze the economic costs of risk and uncertainty–think of them as crisis management for financial issues. Most actuaries work for insurance companies, but can also be found in private corporations, as consultants, or working for the government.
Median Pay: $120,000/yr
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Actuarial Science, Mathematics, or a related field
Who’s a good fit? If you have strong mathematical skills, enjoy problem-solving, and can interpret data to make informed decisions, this role might be for you.
2. Business Reporter
Business reporters are journalists who focus on niche business trends and stories, also known as a specific beat. They keep the public updated about current events and noteworthy financial developments while working at various types of media outlets.
Median Pay: $57,500/yr
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Journalism, Communications, or Economics
Who’s a good fit? This role is ideal if you have excellent communication skills, a passion for storytelling, and a strong interest in economics or business trends.
3. Compensation Manager
Compensation managers plan, develop, and oversee employee payment programs. Thye ensure these programs comply with internal policies and government regulations.
Median Pay: $136,380/yr
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Human Resources, Business Administration, or Economics
Who’s a good fit? You’ll thrive in this role if you’re detail-oriented, have strong organizational skills, and enjoy working with people and financial data.
4. Economist
Economists study how goods, services, and resources are produced, distributed, and consumed. They conduct research, prepare reports, and evaluate issues related to economic trends. They work in fields such as business, health, and the environment.
Median Pay: $115,730/yr
Minimum Education: Masters of Economics or a related field
Who’s a good fit? If you have strong analytical skills, enjoy research, and can communicate complex ideas clearly, this role is a great match.
5. Loan Officer
Loan officers evaluate, authorize, or recommend approval of applications for personal and business loans. They often explain loan types, gather financial information, and analyze applicants’ financial status.
Median Pay: $69,990
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Finance, Business, or Economics
Who’s a good fit? This role suits those with strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and an interest in financial services.
6. Management Consultant
Management consultants work with both private and public organizations to improve efficiency and effectiveness, advising managers on reducing costs and increasing revenues.
Median Pay: $99,410
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Business, Economics, or related field
Who’s a good fit? If you’re a strategic thinker who enjoys problem-solving and working in dynamic environments, this is a rewarding career path.
7. Policy Analyst
Policy analysts assess existing policies, identify areas for improvement, and suggest new policy based on data and research. They often focus on economic, social, or environmental issues.
Median Pay: $82,328
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Political Science, Economics, or Public Policy
Who’s a good fit? This role is perfect for those who enjoy research, critical thinking, and influencing decision-making processes.
8. Research Analyst
Research analysts gather and analyze data on consumers and competitors to assess the potential success of a product or service.
Median Pay: $74,680
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Statistics, Economics, or Marketing
Who’s a good fit? If you’re curious, analytical, and detail-oriented, this role offers exciting opportunities.
9. Statistician
Statisticians use formulas and data to help solve problems in fields like business, academia, and government. They often design surveys, experiments, and models to analyze data.
Median Pay: $116,440
Minimum Education: Masters of Statistics or Mathematics
Who’s a good fit? This is an excellent career for those with strong quantitative skills who enjoy working with data to drive decision-making.
10. Supply Chain Analyst
Supply chain analysts identify inefficiencies in a company’s supply chain and recommend improvements. They analyze costs, monitor inventory, and enhance processes.
Median Pay: $75,493
Minimum Education: Bachelors of Supply Chain Management, Business, or Economics
Who’s a good fit? If you excel at problem-solving, enjoy logistics, and have strong analytical skills, this role is ideal.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Economics Career
Whether you’re looking to complete your degree or you’re just getting started, SDSU Global Campus is here to help you achieve your goals. Our online Bachelor of Arts in Economics program is designed for busy professionals like you—offering the flexibility and support you need to balance work, life, and education.
“Being able to complete a bachelor’s degree online was more than I could hope for and this is giving me the ability to attend school and balance a demanding work schedule, without compromising both,” said student Maria Lopez-Montes. “I know that the education I’m receiving at SDSU Global Campus will develop my career further and create endless opportunities for growth and service to the community.”
