Work and stress usually go together. However, even though there are no completely stress-free jobs, there are still some that provide low stress levels. Here are some of the low-stress jobs that pay well:

Computer Software Engineer - Some people may be surprised why this job is considered "low-stress," when IT jobs are usually hectic and fast-paced. Most computer-software engineers, however, have the benefit of being able to work from home, which provides more freedom for professionals in this field. In addition, they enjoy very competitive annual salaries ranging from $54,000 to $130,000.

Civil Engineers - This job is a team-based job, which helps alleviate the pressure experienced by workers. Moreover, deadlines are usually far apart, which helps reduce stress levels. Another stress reliever is the hefty salary. Civil engineers earn an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $115,000.

Physical Therapist - Careers in healthcare are usually high-stress jobs. Physical therapists (PT's) are the exception to the rule. Since PT's are self-employed, they usually enjoy flexible working hours, giving them enough leeway to spend time with the family. Unlike other healthcare jobs, PT's aren't usually required to work at night. With more baby-boomers reaching retirement age, job outlook in this field is also very good. Physical therapists' salaries range from $50,000 to $105,000 a year.

Massage Therapist - For as long as touching a stranger's back doesn't make you feel uneasy, this job is considered a low-stress job. Most massage therapists are self-employed, so they enjoy flexibility in their daily schedules. In addition, they get to smell soothing relaxants each time they go to work. Hourly rates range from $10 to $30.

As social networking sites like LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook increase in popularity, more opportunities are opening up for people with a Marketing or Business Administration Degree thanks to social media marketing jobs. Gone are the days when social media sites were seen only as a way to communicate with friends. These days, social media has taken networking and marketing strategies to a completely new level. As a result, demand for social media experts has sky rocketed.

Efficient Marketing

Marketing via social media is very cost-effective. It's easy to set up a social media account or put up a website compared to TV spots and commercials. In addition, social media can reach a wide range of consumers and encourages more interaction between an organization and a target audience, which is essential in any marketing campaign.

Just how hot are social media careers? A variety of jobs has opened up for social media specialists, with annual salaries ranging from $45,000 to six-figure paychecks. That's not bad for pastime activities such as tweeting and blogging.

Most hires are from ad agencies that assist corporations with their social media marketing. Most jobs offered are usually freelance rather than full-time jobs. However, salaries are very competitive, especially for professionals who already have experience in Marketing. Those with impressive marketing experience can demand up to $200 per hour. On the average, most social media experts command $100 per hour. The lowest rates are usually from fresh graduates commanding up to $50 per hour.

Some of the hottest social media careers include social media strategists, community managers, bloggers, copywriters and search engine marketing (SEM) associates.

In a tight economy, your targeted work location matters when looking for financial stability. Not all places are friendly for fresh graduates looking for entry-level salaries. New York City, for instance, has a very high average rent that most entry-level workers simply cannot afford. In addition, the city has a very poor job-growth projection of 5% in the next 20 years. In a very competitive environment, that type of job outlook makes it very difficult for a fresh graduate to secure a job in the first place. Other cities not ideal for fresh graduates include Detroit, Los Angeles, Cleveland and St. Louis.

If you want to employ successful job search strategies that can help you achieve financial stability as an entry-level worker, be sure to keep location in mind when job-hunting. Here are some of the best places for fresh graduates to start over:

Atlanta - Job growth in this city is estimated at 3% per year. That amounts to 2.5 million new jobs in the next 20 years, which makes it currently the best city for college graduates entering the workforce.

Austin - According to Mint.com, jobs in the city is projected to grow by 47.8% in the next 20 years. Aside from a very promising job outlook, the place also has very competitive housing rates.

Denver - Not only is the state projected to have a 2.54% yearly job-market expansion rate, Colorado is considered as one of the most desirable places to live in, according to a Pew Research Center survey.

Minneapolis - The land of a thousand lakes is a hotbed for green-industry innovations. Aside from those aiming to enter the green industry, Minneapolis is also an ideal place for small businesses. 

Pittsburg - Healthcare and education are thriving in this city. It's safe to bet that job outlook will be good here, especially for those looking to enter these industries.