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A global study by the University of Tartu reveals the most and least fulfilling jobs, showing that purpose and autonomy matter more than pay or prestige
Study reveals world’s most and least satisfying jobs
A groundbreaking study by researchers at the University of Tartu in Estonia has unveiled which professions contribute most—and least—to overall life satisfaction. Touted as the most comprehensive and rigorous research of its kind, the study analyzed data from 59,000 individuals across 263 occupations, according to a report by New Scientist. The research drew on detailed surveys conducted among participants in the Estonian Biobank, many of whom are blood donors. It explored various aspects of work life, including job roles, income, personality traits, and personal well-being.
The Most Fulfilling Jobs: Purpose Over Pay
At the top of the satisfaction rankings were clergy, healthcare professionals, and writers—roles often linked to a strong sense of purpose and personal achievement. These professions stood out not just for what people do, but for how meaningful the work feels. The researchers found that the sense of contributing to others or creating something valuable plays a more vital role in job satisfaction than job prestige or salary alone.
The Least Satisfying Jobs: Repetition and Low Autonomy
In contrast, professions in kitchens, transportation, storage, manufacturing, and sales were reported as the least satisfying. Jobs that involve repetitive tasks or limited decision-making authority ranked poorly. Surprisingly, higher earnings and status didn’t always translate to more fulfillment. “I was expecting the job prestige to be more associated with satisfaction, but there was only a slight correlation,” said lead researcher Katlin Anni. “Jobs with a higher sense of achievement are associated with higher satisfaction, and even lower-prestige jobs can be quite fulfilling.”
Autonomy, Flexibility, and Work-Life Balance Are Key
The study also found that self-employed individuals consistently reported higher satisfaction levels, thanks to the autonomy and flexibility their roles offer. Beyond that, professionals such as psychologists, engineers, medical workers, special-needs educators, and even sheet-metal workers showed high overall life satisfaction, often due to a mix of meaningful work and manageable stress levels.
Conversely, jobs such as security guards, waitstaff, sales personnel, mail carriers, carpenters, and chemical engineers were among the least satisfied. Stressful work environments, lack of growth opportunities, and minimal control over schedules were often cited as contributing factors.
Ultimately, the study suggests that job satisfaction is driven less by external rewards like pay or status and more by internal factors like purpose, autonomy, and work-life balance. Whether you’re in a high-profile role or a lesser-known trade, feeling valued and in control of your workday may be the real keys to happiness.
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