Thinking about a career change but worried about money? You’re not alone. Surveys show that while most professionals believe switching careers would boost their happiness, only a small percentage actually make the leap. The number one barrier is financial security—concerns about pay cuts, job stability, and the costs of retraining often hold people back. The good news? You can make a career change without sacrificing financial security if you approach the process strategically. Here are three practical ways to get started.

1. Start Your Career Change Without Quitting Your Job

The safest way to explore a new career is by dipping your toes in before making a big move. Keep your current salary while testing your new field through side projects, volunteer work, or professional groups. For example, if you’re in sales but curious about marketing, volunteer with a nonprofit, join industry meetups, or collaborate on cross-functional projects at work. This not only helps you confirm whether the career change is truly right for you but also builds skills and connections that can ease the transition—without financial disruption.

2. Use Free or Low-Cost Resources to Upskill

A career pivot doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Instead of diving into expensive degrees or certifications right away, start small. Explore free online courses, attend local meetups, borrow books from the library, or take a short class to build foundational knowledge. These affordable steps let you test your interest in the field and refine your learning path. Often, early networking and affordable training open doors to opportunities—sometimes even paid projects—that accelerate your career change without unnecessary financial strain.

3. Research the Financial Potential of Your New Career

Before fully committing to a career change, run the numbers. Research average salaries, growth potential, and job market demand in your new field. Factor in whether additional education is required and how that fits into your personal budget. For some, taking a temporary pay cut may be manageable if expenses are under control or retirement savings are already on track. For others, it might make sense to wait until finances are stronger. By analyzing both industry trends and your personal financial picture, you can step into a new career with confidence instead of uncertainty.

Final Thought

Making a career change without sacrificing financial security is absolutely possible. The key is preparation: explore your options while employed, lean on cost-effective resources, and carefully evaluate the financial outlook of your new field. Career change carries risk, but so does staying in an unfulfilling job. By taking strategic, informed steps, you can pursue meaningful work while protecting your financial well-being.