India’s job market in 2025 reflects a mix of challenges and opportunities. While the estimated average salary stands at ₹7,35,000 per year and top earners command around ₹8,50,000 annually, unemployment remains a pressing issue. According to the CMIE, unemployment rose to 9.2% in June 2024. The IT sector, once a booming industry, has been hit hard, with over 136,000 professionals laid off in 2024 alone. Despite these hurdles, the highest paying jobs in emerging and traditional fields continue to thrive, offering lucrative prospects for skilled professionals.
To help you explore these lucrative career options, here’s a detailed look at the 20 Highest Paying Jobs in India in 2024, along with their average annual salaries.
Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs In India (According to Average Salary)
Marketing director | 47.5 LPA | 11. Actuaries | 12 LPA |
Judge | 27 LPA | 12. AI Engineer | 11 LPA |
Commercial Pilot | 25 LPA | 13. Chartered Accountants | 10.5 LPA |
Real Estate Developer | 25 LPA | 14. Cyber Security experts | 10 LPA |
Product Manager | 24 LPA | 15. Medical Professionals | 9.6 LPA |
Management Consultant | 24 LPA | 16. Software Engineers/ architects | 9 LPA |
Cloud Computing Engineer | 20 LPA | 17. Business Analyst | 9 LPA |
Investment Banker | 17 LPA | 18. Machine Learning Engineer | 8 LPA |
IoT Solutions Architect | 15 LPA | 19. Civil Services | 7.8 LPA |
Data Scientists | 14 LPA | 20. Blockchain Developers | 7.3 LPA |
1. Marketing Director
- Average Salary in 2024: 47.5 LPA
- Responsibilities: Design and implement marketing strategies, manage teams, oversee advertising campaigns, and ensure brand alignment with business goals.
A Marketing Director plays a crucial role in driving a company’s growth by designing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies that align with business goals. They lead cross-functional teams, collaborate with sales and product departments, and embrace emerging technologies to stay competitive. Marketing Directors directly influence revenue growth and establish a strong market presence, making this a highly impactful and well-compensated role.
2. Judge
- Average Salary in 2024: 27 LPA
- Responsibilities: Interpret and apply laws, preside over court cases, and ensure justice is delivered impartially.
A Judge’s duties include analyzing complex legal issues, making critical rulings, and managing courtroom proceedings efficiently. Judges are entrusted with making decisions that can profoundly affect individuals and society. This requires years of rigorous legal education, professional experience, and a deep understanding of the law. Due to the significant responsibility they carry in upholding justice and the extensive expertise required, this role commands a high salary.
3. Commercial Pilot
- Average Salary in 2024: 25 LPA
- Responsibilities: Operate aircraft, ensure passenger safety, and navigate through varying weather conditions.
Commercial pilots conduct pre-flight inspections, communicate with air traffic control, and manage in-flight operations, including handling emergencies. This role requires extensive training, certifications, and continuous skill development to ensure safety and efficiency. The ability to work in high-stress, high-stakes environments, along with the responsibility for human lives, makes this role both demanding and highly compensated. The rigorous preparation and critical decision-making involved contribute to the high salary associated with being a commercial pilot.
4. Real Estate Developer
- Average Salary in 2024: 25 LPA
- Responsibilities: Plan, finance, and manage construction projects, develop properties for residential or commercial use, and oversee sales.
A Real Estate Developer assess market trends, secure funding, and coordinate with architects, contractors, and legal teams to bring projects to life. The role requires a keen understanding of real estate markets and regulations. Due to the significant capital investment, high returns, and influence on market trends, real estate developers are well-compensated for their expertise and ability to drive large-scale projects.
5. Product Manager
- Average Salary in 2024: 24 LPA
- Responsibilities: Develop product strategies, work with cross-functional teams, and oversee the lifecycle of a product from conception to launch.
A Product Manager defines product vision, prioritizes features, and ensures alignment with customer needs and business goals. Product managers collaborate with design, development, and marketing teams to create successful products. Due to their direct impact on a product’s success and a company’s revenue, this role requires strong leadership, market insight, and decision-making skills.
6. Management Consultant
- Average Salary in 2024: 24 LPA
- Responsibilities: Analyze business challenges, provide strategic solutions, and help organizations optimize their operations.
A Management Consultant works closely with senior leadership to identify inefficiencies, improve processes, and implement changes that drive growth and profitability. This role requires a deep understanding of various industries, strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. Due to their expertise in problem-solving and delivering impactful results for large businesses, Management Consultants are among the highest paying jobs in India
7. Cloud Computing Engineer
- Average Salary in 2024: 20 LPA
- Responsibilities: Design, develop, and maintain cloud computing solutions, ensuring scalability and security.
Cloud Computing Engineers work with cloud infrastructure, implement cloud-based applications, and optimize data storage and processing systems. As businesses increasingly move to cloud platforms, this role becomes essential in ensuring seamless and secure digital operations. The growing demand for cloud services in today’s digital-first economy makes it one of the highest paying jobs in India.
8. Investment Banker
- Average Salary in 2024: 17 LPA
- Responsibilities: Facilitate mergers and acquisitions, raise capital, and advise on financial strategies for clients.
An Investment Banker works with large corporations, governments, and institutions to structure deals, manage assets, and optimize financial performance. Investment bankers analyze market trends, assess risks, and negotiate complex transactions. Due to their critical role in managing and growing massive financial portfolios, their expertise directly impacts major financial outcomes, making this one of the highest paying jobs in India
9. IoT Solutions Architect
- Average Salary in 2024: 15 LPA
- Responsibilities: Design IoT ecosystems, develop interconnected device solutions, and ensure seamless integration with existing technologies.
An IoT Solutions Architect focuses on building smart systems that enable devices to communicate and share data efficiently, optimizing operations in various industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. Due to the rapid growth and innovation in IoT, along with the high demand for connectivity solutions, this role is critical in shaping the future of smart technologies. This makes it one of the highest paying jobs in India
10. Data Scientist
- Average Salary in 2024: 14 LPA
- Responsibilities: Analyze large datasets to derive actionable insights, build predictive models, and support data-driven decision-making.
A Data Scientist usees advanced statistical techniques, machine learning algorithms, and programming skills to uncover trends and patterns that help businesses make informed decisions. With data being a valuable asset in today’s economy, professionals who can interpret and leverage it to drive business value are in high demand, making data science one of the Highest Paying Jobs In India.
11. Actuary
- Average Salary in 2024: 12 LPA
- Responsibilities: Assess financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, primarily in the insurance and finance sectors.
An Actuary analyzes data to predict future events, such as mortality rates, accidents, and market fluctuations, helping businesses make informed decisions about pricing, investments, and risk management. Due to their specialized knowledge in risk assessment and the critical role they play in managing uncertainties in financial markets, actuaries are highly valued.
12. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
- Average Salary in 2024: 11 LPA
- Responsibilities: Develop AI models, algorithms, and systems to automate and optimize business processes.
An Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer creates intelligent applications and solutions that improve decision-making, efficiency, and user experience across various sectors, from healthcare to finance. As AI continues to transform industries by enabling smarter, faster, and more efficient operations, AI engineers are in high demand in India.
13. Chartered Accountant (CA)
- Average Salary in 2024: 10.5 LPA
- Responsibilities: Manage financial records, perform audits, and provide tax and financial advice.
A Chartered Accountant (CA) ensures compliance with regulations, helps optimize tax strategies, and offers guidance on financial planning and risk management. Due to their specialized knowledge and the high level of trust placed in them for ensuring financial stability and regulatory compliance, Chartered Accountants hold a critical role in business operations, making this one of the highest paying jobs in India
14. Cybersecurity Expert
- Average Salary in 2024: 10 LPA
- Responsibilities: Protect systems, networks, and data from cyber threats through proactive defense strategies and security measures.
A Cybersecurity Expert designs security protocols, conducts risk assessments, and ensures that organizations’ digital assets remain safe from breaches. With the rising frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, businesses heavily rely on cybersecurity experts to safeguard critical information, making this role one of the Highest Paying Jobs In India.
15. Medical Professionals
- Average Salary in 2024: 9.6 LPA
- Responsibilities: Diagnose and treat illnesses, perform surgeries, and ensure patient care.
Medical Professionals work across various specializations, from general practice to surgery, using their expertise to improve health outcomes and save lives. The role demands years of rigorous education, training, and continuous learning to stay current with medical advancements. With the increasing demand for healthcare services and the critical nature of their work, medical professionals are among the highest paying jobs in India
16. Software Engineer/Architect
- Average Salary in 2024: 9 LPA
- Responsibilities: Design, develop, and maintain software applications or systems to meet user needs.
A Software Engineer/Architect works on creating efficient, scalable solutions and troubleshooting technical issues to ensure optimal performance. As the backbone of the tech industry, software engineers are crucial for driving innovation and supporting business operations. Their expertise in building reliable, high-performance systems makes this role one of the Highest Paying Jobs In India.
17. Business Analyst
- Average Salary in 2024: 9 LPA
- Responsibilities: Bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions by analyzing processes and recommending improvements.
A Business Analyst collaborates with stakeholders to define requirements, streamline workflows, and ensure that technology aligns with business objectives. With businesses increasingly relying on technology to drive success, professionals who can effectively align business strategies with technical solutions are in high demand, making this one of the highest paying jobs in India
18. Machine Learning Engineer
- Average Salary in 2024: 8 LPA
- Responsibilities: Develop machine learning models and algorithms, enabling systems to learn and adapt without explicit programming.
A Machine Learning Engineer works with large datasets, applies statistical techniques, and builds models that power AI-driven applications across industries. As machine learning continues to be central to advancements in AI and automation, professionals in this field play a crucial role in transforming industries, making this one of the Highest Paying Jobs In India.
19. Civil Services
- Average Salary in 2024: 7.8 LPA
- Responsibilities: Implement government policies, manage public administration, and ensure the welfare of citizens.
Civil servants are responsible for shaping national and local governance, and ensuring policies are effectively executed. Due to high job security, prestige, and significant responsibility in governance, this role is highly valued.
Some famous civil service exams in India include:
- Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- Indian Police Service (IPS)
- Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
These exams, primarily conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), are considered among the most challenging and prestigious in India, making civil services one of the highest paying jobs in India
20. Blockchain Developer
- Average Salary in 2024: 7.3 LPA
- Responsibilities: Design and maintain decentralized blockchain systems, ensuring security and transparency.
A Blockchain Developer builds and optimizes blockchain protocols, creates smart contracts, and implements innovative solutions across various sectors like finance, supply chain, and technology. As blockchain technology gains rapid adoption, particularly in industries like finance and supply chain management, the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to rise, making it one of the Highest Paying Jobs In India.
Some other high-paying jobs in India include:
Job Title | Key Skills |
DevOps Engineer | Cloud computing, CI/CD pipelines, automation, system design |
IT Director | IT strategy, project management, team leadership, cybersecurity |
Lawyer | Legal research, negotiation, communication, litigation |
UX/UI Designer | User experience design, wireframing, prototyping, Adobe XD |
Merchant Navy Officer | Navigation, ship operations, maritime safety |
Digital Marketing Manager | SEO, SEM, social media, digital strategy |
Company Secretary | Corporate law, governance, compliance, financial reporting |
The highest-paying jobs in India showcase diverse opportunities across industries, from tech and finance to healthcare and public service. With the rise of online job opportunities, many of these roles now offer flexible work environments, allowing you to explore your career from anywhere. By aligning your skills with these in-demand roles, you can secure financial success and a fulfilling career. The future is yours to shape—start exploring today!
FAQs
- Which job in India has the highest salary?
Answer: Marketing Directors have an average salary of 47.5 LPA making it the highest salary job in India.
- What is a 7 figure salary in India?
Answer: Marketing director, Judge, Commercial Pilot, Real Estate Developer, Product, Manager, Management Consultant, and Cloud Computing Engineer are some roles having a 7 figure salary in India.
- Which job is most in demand in India?
Answer: Digital jobs with emerging tech, such as AI Engineers, Machine Learning Engineers, and Blockchain Developers, are the most in-demand in India due to the rapid adoption of technologies driving digital transformation across industries.
- What are the highest paying jobs in India for girls?
Answer: The highest-paying jobs in India for women include roles such as physicians, pharmacists, human resource managers, software developers, and financial analysts.
- What are some of the highest-paying jobs in India in the IT sector?
Answer: Some of the highest-paying jobs in India in the IT sector include roles such as Software Engineers, Cloud Computing Engineers, AI Engineers, Machine Learning Engineers, Data Scientists, and Cybersecurity Experts, driven by the growing demand for technology-driven solutions and innovation.
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