When it comes to similarities between states, you probably wouldn’t but Georgia and Idaho together. But these two states have one big thing in common: their highest paying job in the state. And the job probably isn’t what you’re thinking, either.
It’s not something in the medical field… like nearly every other state. Nope, Georgia and Idaho’s highest paying jobs are pilots.
How much do pilots make in Georgia?
According to a report published in July of this year by Mental Floss, Georgia pilots take home a whopping annual median wage of $618K.
And that’s actually the 6th highest paid job in the nation, just after cardiologists in Wisconsin.
Here’s what Mental Floss has to say about it:
There are only two states that don’t have a healthcare position as their best-paid job: Georgia and Idaho. In both states, pilots top of the list. One reason for the difference could be how important airline positions are in Georgia. The state is home to the busiest airport in the world, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport dominating the airline industry. The airport saw more than 106 million total passengers visit its airport in 2025, giving pilots in the state plenty of work to do.
What’s the #1 highest paying job in the U.S.?
The highest paying job in the U.S. might surprise you… especially where it is.
Orthopedic surgeons in Missouri make a median annual wage of $843K.
So if you’re looking to make the most money possible in Georgia… it might be time to take to the skies!