4 Inspiring Women Who Achieved a Six-Figure Salary

Want to join the ranks of six-figure earners? Here’s how to pursue and attain that $100,000+ salary you've worked hard for.

Aiming for a six-figure salary is a significant milestone for many. Earning $100,000+ can transform your lifestyle and financial outlook. Here’s a snapshot of average American salaries based on age, according to the latest statistics:

16 to 19 years: $21,944 annually
20 to 24 years: $27,300 annually
25 to 34 years: $40,352 annually
35 to 44 years: $50,752 annually
45 to 54 years: $50,700 annually
55 to 64 years: $50,232 annually
65 years and older: $47,008 annually

Among women in the workforce, less than 12% earn over $100,000. In fact, men are over twice as likely to reach this income level—only 6% of women compared to 13% of men report six-figure earnings, as per a YouGov survey.

If you're focused on joining the six-figure ranks, we’re cheering you on. Whether you want to request a raise, secure a promotion, or land a higher-paying position, it’s motivating to learn from those who've been there. Here are their stories and top tips.

“Discover what sparks your joy — and avoid labels.”

Fitness coach and content creator Angie Bellemare established her brand by consistently sharing valuable insights about her life. Her focus spans organization, routines, and fitness, along with partnerships that expanded her online presence. This led to diverse income streams totaling over $100,000 annually.

She emphasizes the importance of self-discovery. Instead of labeling your aspirations, she suggests reframing them. For example, rather than stating ‘I want to be a doctor,’ say, “I want to help people achieve health.” When your work aligns with your true passions, motivation flows naturally, placing you among the top earners. “Often, we box ourselves into specific roles, only to realize they don’t match our expectations, leading to waning motivation and soul-searching,” she explains. “I experienced this before finding my true joy.”

“Ignore naysayers on your path to success.”

For Kaeleigh Testwuide, founder of The Diamond Reserve, making a six-figure salary wasn’t her primary focus. While financial success mattered, her goal was to create an honest and educational engagement ring-buying experience in Denver. Over six years, her commitment to ethics and values paid off. “I believe my salary reflects my dedication to lifestyle over mere profit. I cherish my work environment, my colleagues, and the industry as a whole. When you love your work, financial rewards often follow,” she shares. “This journey isn’t easy; I continually learn about diamonds and marketing to stay competitive in this evolving landscape.”

“Incorporate reflective practices into your journey.”

In 2020, amid the pandemic, accountability and money mindset coach Mary-Theresa Tringale reached her goal of earning six figures. She attributes this to three key practices: tuning into her intuition, setting boundaries with unsupportive influences, and seeking help when necessary. Her top advice for aspiring earners is to find a reflective practice that guides your path.

“I turned to meditation and journaling and enrolled in coaching programs that encouraged self-exploration. I surrounded myself with supportive individuals and invested in opportunities that felt right, while declining those that drained my energy. Without meditation and journaling, I wouldn’t have recognized these opportunities,” she adds.

“Aim to under-promise and over-deliver.”

As the CEO of a hair salon and product line, Tonya Fairley had to adapt her business model to maintain her six-figure income during challenging times. She pivoted by offering virtual consultations and redesigning her salon for safe, one-on-one visits, ultimately generating $130,000. “I also streamlined unused products and donated them to local shelters,” she notes.

Fairley advises those striving for a six-figure salary to embrace the principle of under-promising and over-delivering. “Be open to innovative service methods that bring you joy and make your clients feel valued. I ensured my clients received not only what they paid for but also extra attention to detail, which they appreciated,” she concludes.