Median Wages for Families Around 10 Major States
For many Americans, the pursuit of a secure financial future is intricately linked to geographical location. But a complex reality lies beyond the appeal of sun-drenched beaches and bustling metropolises. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at the often-misunderstood metric of median family income across 15 key states and dispelling myths often associated with regional prosperity.
California Dreamin’ (of a High Salary)
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The Golden State takes the crown with a median family income of $91,399 (shocking, right?). But remember, that sunshine comes with a price – California’s notoriously high cost of living might mean that six-figure income doesn’t stretch quite as far as you’d think (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Texas Two-Step to a Decent Paycheck
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The Lone Star State boasts a median family income of $82,342, placing it firmly in the “comfortable” zone (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Sunshine State Salaries
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Florida follows closely behind with a median family income of $77,757. While not quite Texas-sized, it’s enough to enjoy some serious beachside living (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
The Big Apple’s Big Bucks
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New York isn’t for the faint of wallet, but its median family income of $82,291 reflects the higher cost of living in bustling metropolitan areas (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Pennsylvanian Paychecks
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The Keystone State offers a median family income of $80,144, making it a solid choice for those seeking a balance between affordability and opportunity (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Land of Lincoln’s Loot
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Illinois comes in swinging with a median family income of $80,032, offering a decent living in the heart of the Midwest (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Ohio’s Overall Affordability
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The Buckeye State is a surprise, with a median family income of $79,214. While not the highest on the list, Ohio’s affordability makes this a great option for those seeking a comfortable life without breaking the bank (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Peach State Paychecks
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Georgia’s median family income of $78,217 might not scream luxury, but it allows for a good standard of living in the “Peach State,” known for its Southern charm and hospitality (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Tar Heel Treasure (or Not?)
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North Carolina nabs the ninth spot with a median family income of $77,842. While not the top earner, it’s an attractive option for those considering a blend of affordability and opportunity in the Southeast (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Motor City Maneuvering Money
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Michigan rounds out our first ten with a median family income of $77,154. The Great Lakes State offers a unique blend of urban and rural living, with a cost of living that might surprise you (as per the U.S. Census Bureau).
Virginia’s Varied Value
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The Old Dominion takes the eleventh spot with a median family income of $88,292. This reflects the state’s diverse economy, ranging from agriculture to technology (as per the U.S. Census Bureau). But remember, Virginia’s cost of living can vary depending on location, with urban areas like Northern Virginia typically more expensive.
Washington’s Wealthy Woes
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The Evergreen State boasts the second-highest median family income on our list at $103,419 (as per the U.S. Census Bureau). Seattle, a major tech hub, significantly inflates this number. However, Washington also has a high cost of living, particularly in urban areas.
Massachusetts Money Maze
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The Bay State comes in at number three with a median family income of $107,068 (as per the U.S. Census Bureau). Similar to Washington, Massachusetts is home to a thriving tech industry and prestigious universities, contributing to its high median income. But again, the cost of living, especially housing, can be a significant hurdle.
Maryland’s Mix
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The Mid-Atlantic charm of Maryland is accompanied by a median family income of $99,306 (as per the U.S. Census Bureau). This reflects the state’s diverse economy, with a mix of government agencies, tech companies, and blue-collar industries. The cost of living varies depending on location, with Baltimore and its suburbs typically more expensive than rural areas.
New Jersey’s Nest Egg
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The Garden State nabs the top spot on our list with a whopping median family income of $107,157 (as per the U.S. Census Bureau). This can likely be attributed to the state’s proximity to New York City and the presence of many financial institutions. However, New Jersey is notoriously expensive, especially in areas close to NYC.