Typically, unemployment rates decline as education increases, so in terms of employment, having a GED is better than not having finished high school at all. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that those with a high school diploma had unemployment rates of 8.3 percent in 2012, while those without a high school equivalency or GED saw a rate of over 12 percent.
Although many jobs in construction require on-the-job training or an apprenticeship, many only require a high school diploma or equivalent to get started. Brick masons, carpenters, electricians, welders, stonemasons, plumbers and building inspectors are just a few of the jobs available in the construction industry. The BLS reports that many of these careers are growing at a yearly rate of up to 28 percent and can pay up to $54,000 a year.
There are many jobs in an office setting that those with a high school equivalency could apply for. Workers with a GED can also be successful as insurance sales agents, bank tellers, legal secretaries, library assistants and medical secretaries. A very lucrative career, according to BLS salaray data, is a loan officer, which requires moderate on-the-job training and can earn up to $74,000 per year.
If you like to travel, there are a few jobs available in the travel and hospitality industry that may interest you. With a high school diploma or GED and some on-the-job training, you can become a flight attendant, lodging manager or travel agent. Workers in these fields can earn anywhere from $25,000 to $54,999 per year.