More than 72 million Americans work in just five job categories—roles so widespread they quietly shape the country’s economic backbone. From fast food counters to home care visits, these positions reflect more than employment trends; they reveal how people live, commute, and age across wildly different regions. This collection dives into the most common profession in every state, unpacking the local forces behind each trend. With context, color, and compelling data, some of these professions might surprise you.
#1: Alabama – Retail Sales & Cashiers
Walk into any shopping plaza or small-town store in Alabama, and you’ll likely meet someone working in retail. These positions thrive here because they require minimal formal education and offer flexible hours, suiting a broad swath of the population.
As rural areas dominate the state’s geography, large chain stores serve as hubs for commerce and community. Cashier and sales roles are reliable, especially for young workers and families needing supplemental income. With a limited high-tech industry, retail remains one of the most accessible and steady ways to earn a living throughout Alabama.