Photos: 10 best-paying jobs

9. Podiatrist. U.S. annual average salary: $116,440; projected growth through 2022: 23%. California annual average salary: $113,990; projected growth through 2020: less than 1%   (Steve Lopez / Los Angeles Times)

7. Air traffic controller. U.S. annual average salary: $122,530; projected growth through 2022: 1%. California annual average salary: $126,580; projected growth through 2020: -7%   (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

6. Petroleum engineer. U.S. annual average salary: $130,280; projected growth through 2022: 26%. California annual average salary: $122,490; projected growth through 2020: 15%   (Trent Nelson / Associated Press)

5. Dentist. U.S. annual average salary: $146,340; projected growth through 2022: 16%. California annual average salary: $147,750; projected growth through 2020: 4%   (Will Edwards / AFP/Getty Images)

4. Orthodontist. U.S. annual average salary: $149,310; projected growth through 2022: 16%. California annual average salary: $210,290; projected growth through 2020: 9%   (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

3. Psychiatrist. U.S. annual average salary: $178,950; projected growth through 2022: 18%. California annual average salary: $191,460; projected growth through 2020: 15%   (Khue Bui / Associated Press)

2. Physician (general practice). U.S. annual average salary: $187,200; projected growth through 2022: 18%. California annual average salary: $182,920; projected growth through 2020: 22%  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

1. Surgeon. U.S. annual average salary: $233,150; projected growth through 2022: 18%. California annual average salary: $222,550; projected growth through 2020: 19%  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)