No job is entirely stress-free. Every profession carries some level of pressure, whether from tight deadlines, physical demands, or social expectations. What one person finds stressful, another might enjoy. While some thrive in high-pressure environments, others prefer stability and predictability.

“Our perception of a situation plays an essential role in our stress levels,” says Karen Sothers, a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) expert. “The value or meaning we assign to an event determines whether we react to it as a threat or respond to it as an opportunity.”

Stress levels vary from person to person, but for the purpose of comparison, the Jobs Rated Report assigns a relative measure of workplace stress, allowing different careers to be evaluated on a continuum.

Medical Records Technician: The Least Stressful Job of 2012

This year, Medical Records Technician earned the title of the least stressful job. However, industry professionals argue that even this role comes with its own set of challenges.

“It’s false to say our job isn’t stressful,” says Diana Warner, a Director at the American Health Information Management Association. “There are laws and regulations coming at us left and right that need to be implemented.” She adds that regulatory changes require constant training and education, which can add pressure to the job.

Still, many professionals in low-stress fields find that the challenges they face are minor compared to those in high-risk or high-pressure jobs.

Finding a Low-Stress Career

Some professions, while not entirely free from stress, offer a more relaxed work environment and greater job stability. For instance, hairstylist Joyce Green says that while long hours can take a toll, the job itself isn’t particularly stressful.

“If I made a client’s hair purple or burned it off—that would be stressful,” she jokes. “But it’s not like getting shot at.” She notes that most hairstylists who love their work don’t find it stressful, as creativity and client interaction bring satisfaction.

While no career is entirely devoid of stress, some professions provide a more manageable work-life balance and fewer high-pressure situations. If you’re looking for a career with lower stress levels, consider these top picks from the Jobs Rated Report.

Top 10 Least Stressful Jobs of 2012

These careers offer a lower level of workplace stress while still providing stability, career growth, and job satisfaction.

1. Medical Records Technician

  • Stress Score: 7.52
  • Average Income: $32,350
  • Description: Maintains complete, accurate, and up-to-date medical records for use in treatment, billing, and statistical surveys.

2. Jeweler

  • Stress Score: 8.10
  • Average Income: $35,170
  • Description: Designs, repairs, and appraises jewelry, often working in a calm and controlled workshop environment with minimal deadlines or external pressures.

3. Hair Stylist

  • Stress Score: 8.50
  • Average Income: $22,500
  • Description: Cuts, colors, and styles hair according to client requests. Interactions with customers can be enjoyable, and the work environment is typically relaxed.

4. Medical Laboratory Technician

  • Stress Score: 9.00
  • Average Income: $46,680
  • Description: Conducts laboratory tests to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating diseases, often working in a quiet and structured lab setting.

5. Audiologist

  • Stress Score: 9.30
  • Average Income: $66,660
  • Description: Diagnoses and treats hearing and balance disorders, often working in a calm environment with minimal workplace hazards.

6. Dietitian

  • Stress Score: 10.23
  • Average Income: $53,250
  • Description: Develops nutrition plans and provides dietary counseling for individuals or institutions, typically working in non-emergency settings with predictable schedules.

7. Librarian

  • Stress Score: 10.35
  • Average Income: $54,500
  • Description: Organizes and manages library resources, assists visitors with research, and oversees community programs in a peaceful environment.

8. Seamstress/Tailor

  • Stress Score: 10.80
  • Average Income: $29,250
  • Description: Repairs, alters, and creates clothing, working primarily in a quiet workshop setting with minimal deadlines or workplace hazards.

9. Tenured University Professor

  • Stress Score: 11.00
  • Average Income: $68,970
  • Description: Teaches and conducts research in a specialized academic field, often enjoying job security, flexible schedules, and intellectual engagement.

10. Appliance Repair Technician

  • Stress Score: 11.20
  • Average Income: $42,000
  • Description: Diagnoses and repairs household appliances, working independently or in a customer’s home with manageable deadlines and low-risk conditions.

These careers provide a balance of stability, job satisfaction, and lower workplace stress, making them ideal choices for individuals seeking a relaxed work environment.