Career Change at 40+ Playbook 2026: The 7.4% Wage Bump Most People Don't Take

82% of career changers over 45 successfully transition. 7.4% average wage bump (vs 3% standard merit raise). 39% of skills will change by 2030. 80% of 45+ workers consider it; only 6% pursue it. Real OECD/ADP/WEF data, the 6 best destination roles, and the 5-step playbook that turns desire into a $80K-$120K lifetime decision.