MBTI and Career Success: Which Personality Types Earn the Most?
When choosing a career, personality can play a bigger role than you might think. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is widely used to understand personality traits, but have you ever wondered which MBTI types are most likely to earn a high salary? In this article, we’ll analyze the connection between MBTI personality types and income levels in the U.S., based on real data and industry trends.
1. Does Your MBTI Type Affect Your Salary?
While MBTI is not the only factor that determines earnings, research suggests that personality traits can influence career success. Certain MBTI types naturally excel in leadership roles, negotiation, and risk-taking, which often lead to higher salaries.
A study by Truity Psychometrics analyzed MBTI types and their average earnings in the U.S. The results indicate that personality plays a role in salary differences, but other factors like education, industry, and experience are equally important.
2. The Highest-Earning MBTI Personality Types
Based on multiple studies and salary reports, the following MBTI types tend to earn the highest incomes:
1) ENTJ – The Commander
• Average Salary: $85,000 – $150,000+
• Why? ENTJs are natural leaders, strategic thinkers, and highly competitive. They often hold executive positions such as CEOs, business owners, and high-level managers.
• Common Careers: Business executives, investment bankers, consultants, entrepreneurs.
2) ESTJ – The Executive
• Average Salary: $75,000 – $130,000
• Why? ESTJs are efficient, organized, and thrive in structured environments. They climb the corporate ladder quickly due to their leadership skills.
• Common Careers: Operations managers, financial analysts, law enforcement officers.
3) INTJ – The Mastermind
• Average Salary: $80,000 – $140,000
• Why? INTJs excel in problem-solving and strategic planning. Many work in tech, finance, or STEM fields, where salaries are generally high.
• Common Careers: Software engineers, data scientists, architects, researchers.
4) ENTP – The Debater
• Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000
• Why? ENTPs are innovative, persuasive, and good at spotting business opportunities. Many become entrepreneurs or work in sales and marketing.
• Common Careers: Startup founders, sales executives, marketers, lawyers.
3. The Lowest-Earning MBTI Personality Types
While salary isn’t everything, some MBTI types tend to earn less due to career preferences, work-life balance priorities, or industry choices.
1) ISFP – The Adventurer
• Average Salary: $40,000 – $75,000
• Why? ISFPs are artistic and prefer creative, flexible careers over high-paying corporate jobs.
• Common Careers: Artists, musicians, photographers, designers.
2) INFP – The Mediator
• Average Salary: $45,000 – $80,000
• Why? INFPs prioritize passion over money. They often work in education, counseling, or nonprofit sectors.
• Common Careers: Writers, teachers, therapists, social workers.
3) ESFP – The Entertainer
• Average Salary: $40,000 – $85,000
• Why? ESFPs enjoy fun, social environments, and many pursue entertainment or customer service careers.
• Common Careers: Actors, event planners, hospitality workers, retail managers.
4. Factors That Influence MBTI and Salary
Even if your MBTI type is not among the highest earners, salary depends on multiple factors:
• Industry Selection – Tech, finance, and law generally pay more than creative fields.
• Experience & Skills – Continuous learning and upskilling can boost your earning potential.
• Networking & Negotiation – Strong connections and negotiation skills can significantly impact salary.
• Entrepreneurship – Some personality types (e.g., ENTP, ENTJ) excel in starting their own businesses, which can lead to unlimited earning potential.
5. Can You Increase Your Earning Potential Regardless of MBTI?
Yes! Your MBTI type might influence your natural strengths, but anyone can improve their career and salary prospects by:
• Developing leadership skills – Even introverted types can learn to lead effectively.
• Learning high-income skills – Coding, digital marketing, sales, and investing are great options.
• Choosing the right industry – Some industries simply pay more than others. Research salary trends before choosing a career.
• Being open to change – Career growth often requires adaptability, continuous learning, and sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone.
Final Thoughts: Does MBTI Define Your Salary?
While MBTI personality types can provide insights into your natural career tendencies, they don’t define your earning potential. The right mindset, education, and career strategy can help you maximize your income, no matter your MBTI type.
What’s Your MBTI Type and Career Path?
Do you agree with these salary trends? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
