Coding is becoming an increasingly sought-after skill in every industry. However, there are some careers that put programming centerstage. If you’re a fan of wielding data, massaging lines of code, or simply interested in coding for beginners, then a job in coding may be right for you.

The best part? Your passion may also earn you a pretty penny.

While salaries in the coding field vary, some jobs offer substantial paychecks. This guide will go through the top three highest paying coding jobs in the industry.

Here we go:

1. Machine Learning Engineer
2. Mobile App Developer
3. Graphics Programmer

#1 Machine Learning Engineer
Becoming a machine learning specialist is probably one of the closest tech jobs you can have to being in your very own sci-fi movie. Machine learning, or ML for short, is the process of “teaching” a computer how to “think.” 

At its core, ML features extremely refined probability algorithms that make decisions using massive datasets. This branch of AI (artificial intelligence) gives programs the power to predict certain outcomes, generate unique responses, or perform tasks that they were not specifically programmed to do, like:

1. Image and speech recognition
2. Natural language processing
3. Pattern detection and fraud prevention
4. And much more!

For example, a machine learning algorithm could turn a customer service chatbot into a far more useful tool by allowing it to respond more naturally and effectively to curious (or frustrated) customers. These features feel futuristic, but they’re really just the result of incredible minds in data science, math, and coding. 

Average Salary: $146,121

#2 Mobile App Developer
Want to become an app developer, but confused about what they actually do? They make software applications for mobile devices. However, you may not have realized how much they do. There are few (if any) industries that don't depend on mobile apps to reach audiences, improve workflows, and communicate internally. 

There’s a reason why the software development field is projected to grow by 22% by 2029. 

Average Salary: $123,278

#3 Graphics Programmer
Graphics programmers (or graphics developers) bring magical images, animation, and game ideas to life. By honing their imaginations and their coding skills, a graphics programmer can turn any concept into a thrilling experience for the user via:

1. Image rendering
2. Shading
3. Shadowing
4. Lighting
5. Motion graphics

This job is not only high paying, but it’s also artistically fulfilling.  

Average Salary: $99,951