PA Again Named #2 Best Health Care Job in U.S. News & World Report Rankings

PA Again Named #2 Best Health Care Job in U.S. News & World Report Rankings

PA Also Ranked Among Top 5 Best Jobs Overall

January 13, 2026

In its 2026 rankings released today, U.S. News & World Report again named the PA profession the #2 Best Health Care Job, marking the profession's ninth consecutive year among the top 10. Additionally, the profession was named the #4 Best STEM Job and #5 among the 100 Best Jobs across all occupations.

"The PA profession's consistent recognition as one of not only the best healthcare jobs, but also one of the best jobs overall, is a testament to the vital role PAs play within our healthcare system," said AAPA President and Chair of the Board Todd Pickard, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, FASCO.

"As patient need evolves, the PA workforce will continue to rise to the occasion, expanding access to high-quality care. This recognition underscores our profession's ability to shape the future of healthcare by improving care delivery through innovation, stepping up into leadership, and inspiring the next generation of PAs."

According to U.S. News, professions are evaluated based on future prospects, wage potential, employment, job safety and stability, and work-life balance. The PA ranking was informed in part by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projections that PA employment will increase 20% between 2024 and 2034, much faster than average for all occupations.

You May Also Like
Get to Know AAPA's 2026 Social Media Ambassadors
AAPA Statement on Rural Health Transformation Program Awards Announcement
AAPA White Paper Explores the 60-Year Evolution of the PA Profession