Embrace the Cottagecore Dream: 10 Careers to Capture That Cozy, Rural Vibe

If you’re drawn to the simplicity, nature, and warmth of the cottagecore aesthetic, you might be surprised to know there are actual careers that bring this lifestyle to life. From traditional crafting to eco-friendly farming, these careers combine a sense of peace and purpose with hands-on work. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle and embrace a slower, nature-inspired lifestyle, here are 10 rewarding “cottagecore” careers, along with salaries, job prospects, and tips on how to get started.

1. Herbalist

Average Salary: $42,000
Projected Openings: Increasing interest in natural remedies means more opportunities each year.
Degree Required: Certifications in Herbal Medicine or Natural Health

Herbalists work closely with nature to create healthful remedies from plants. Ideal for those who love botany and alternative medicine, it’s a great fit for introverts or anyone with a deep respect for the healing power of nature.

Steps to Start:

1. Take an introductory herbalism course to learn the basics.

2. Pursue certification through a recognized herbal medicine program.

3. Gain hands-on experience by working under a trained herbalist or at a health food store.

2. Organic Farmer

Average Salary: $72,000
Projected Openings: Steady demand, with interest in organic farming growing.
Degree Required: None, though a background in agriculture is helpful.

For the nature-loving soul, organic farming offers a fulfilling way to connect with the earth. Hardworking, outdoorsy types who enjoy physical work and cultivating plants thrive in this field.

Steps to Start:

1. Volunteer or intern at an organic farm to get a feel for the work.

2. Take a course in sustainable agriculture or organic farming techniques.

3. Start small, perhaps with a community garden plot, and work your way up.

3. Beekeeper

Average Salary: $44,000
Projected Openings: Rising as environmental awareness grows.
Degree Required: None, though courses in beekeeping and ecology help.

Beekeeping is perfect for quiet, patient individuals who are fascinated by these complex creatures. Beekeepers often enjoy solitude and a close relationship with the natural world.

Steps to Start:

1. Join a local beekeeping association to learn from experienced keepers.

2. Take a beginner beekeeping course, often available at agricultural colleges.

3. Invest in a small setup and begin with one or two hives.

4. Florist

Average Salary: $29,000
Projected Openings: Consistent demand, especially in urban areas.
Degree Required: None, though floral design courses are available.

Floristry is a great fit for creative personalities who find joy in arranging and working with flowers. Florists typically enjoy beauty, creativity, and often have a keen eye for design.

Steps to Start:

1. Work at a local flower shop or take a floral design course.

2. Build a portfolio of arrangements to showcase your style.

3. Start building relationships with local suppliers and clients.

5. Artisan Baker

Average Salary: $32,000
Projected Openings: Rising due to the demand for local and homemade foods.
Degree Required: None, though a culinary arts background is helpful.

Artisan baking is perfect for meticulous and artistic individuals who find peace in working with their hands. Many bakers appreciate the rhythm of the kitchen and the satisfaction of creating something delicious.

Steps to Start:

1. Take a baking course, or apprentice under an experienced baker.

2. Practice and perfect your signature recipes.

3. Start by selling at local farmers' markets or online.

6. Handcrafted Soap Maker

Average Salary: $30,000
Projected Openings: Growing interest in natural products.
Degree Required: None, though courses in soap-making are helpful.

This career is great for creative and meticulous personalities who love working with textures and scents. Soap makers often value quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

Steps to Start:

1. Take a soap-making course or learn from online tutorials.

2. Experiment with recipes to find a niche or unique scent.

3. Begin selling at local markets or online platforms like Etsy.

7. Antique Dealer

Average Salary: $45,000
Projected Openings: Moderate but steady interest.
Degree Required: None, though a background in art history helps.

Antique dealing is perfect for history buffs and introverts who enjoy research and treasure-hunting. Antique dealers value authenticity, patience, and curiosity.

Steps to Start:

1. Work in an antique shop or auction house to gain experience.

2. Learn to authenticate and appraise items, possibly through an online course.

3. Start your own collection or online shop.

8. Mushroom Forager

Average Salary: $40,000
Projected Openings: Niche, but growing with interest in specialty foods.
Degree Required: None, though ecology courses help.

Foraging is a great fit for outdoorsy individuals who enjoy a bit of adventure and quiet reflection. Mushroom foragers are observant, patient, and knowledgeable about the local ecosystem.

Steps to Start:

1. Join a mycology club or take a foraging class to learn about local fungi.

2. Obtain permits if required in your area.

3. Connect with local chefs or specialty markets interested in wild mushrooms.

9. Wool Spinner

Average Salary: $35,000
Projected Openings: Limited but possible for the artisan markets.
Degree Required: None, though textile courses can help.

Wool spinning is ideal for creative souls with a passion for textiles. Those who are patient, detail-oriented, and appreciate traditional crafts excel in this field.

Steps to Start:

1. Take a spinning or weaving course.

2. Practice and perfect your technique with different fibers.

3. Set up an online store or sell at artisan fairs.

10. Ceramic Artist

Average Salary: $52,000
Projected Openings: High demand for handmade goods, especially pottery.
Degree Required: None, though art or pottery classes help.

Ceramic artists often enjoy solitude, creativity, and tactile work. This field is ideal for those with an artistic eye who appreciate form, texture, and patience.

Steps to Start:

1. Take a pottery or ceramics course to learn basic techniques.

2. Set up a studio space and start creating pieces to build a portfolio.

3. Market your work on social media and sell through craft markets or online stores.

Whether you’re craving a cozy, hands-on career or want to escape the digital world for something more tangible, these cottagecore careers can bring a satisfying and peaceful way of working. They require commitment and creativity, but for those looking to step away from the noise and reconnect with a more intentional way of life, they’re more than just jobs—they’re a lifestyle.