Study Reveals That Adults Earning Below $80,000 Can’t Afford a Comfortable Life Anywhere in the U.S.
This finding highlights the growing impact of higher housing costs, inflation, and overall increases in the cost of living.
Using data from the MIT Living Wage Calculator, researchers looked at the basic expenses for adults and families—including housing, transportation, taxes, and other essentials.
They determined "comfortable living" based on the widely used 50/30/20 budgeting method: 50% of income for necessities, 30% for non-essential spending, and 20% for savings or debt payments.
$80,000 Is Not Enough—Even in Affordable States
The study found that even in West Virginia, considered the most affordable state for single adults, a person would need to earn $80,829 a year to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
In 18 states—including Kentucky, Arkansas, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and New Mexico—adults need salaries between $80,000 and $90,000 for a reasonable standard of living.
In the remaining 31 states, the situation is even tougher. Single adults need to earn more than $90,000 annually to live comfortably—and in 15 of these states, mostly located along the coasts, incomes over $100,000 are required.
The Most Expensive States in 2025
Hawaii tops the list as the most expensive state for single adults, with an annual salary of $124,467 needed to live comfortably. Following it are Massachusetts ($120,141), California ($119,475), and New York ($114,691).
The cost of living has steadily increased nationwide. According to the study, individuals now need about $5,844 more annually compared to 2024 to maintain the same standard of living. Inflation is playing a huge role in reducing Americans' purchasing power.
For families, Massachusetts is the most expensive state, where an annual income of $313,747 is required. Hawaii ($294,362), Connecticut ($290,368), and California ($287,456) follow closely.
A Growing Economic Challenge
While some states have implemented relief programs—like Pennsylvania’s $800 rebate for seniors over 65—such measures fall short of solving the larger problem.
Experts believe this crisis reveals deeper issues in the economy, such as wage stagnation in many industries, paired with the rising costs of essential services like healthcare, housing, and education.
The study underscores the urgent need for structural changes to address the economic challenges faced by American workers as living expenses continue to climb in 2025.
Government Programs to Help with Everyday Expenses
Accessing government programs is essential for those in need of assistance with day-to-day living expenses. Key programs include:
- Housing Assistance: Section 8 and other HUD programs offer help with rent and housing costs.
- Food Assistance: SNAP and WIC provide aid for groceries and nutritional needs to eligible families.
- Healthcare Support: Medicaid and the Medicare Prescription Drug Program can significantly reduce healthcare expenses.
- Energy & Utility Assistance: LIHEAP helps low-income households with energy bills and utility costs.
- Financial Support: TANF provides cash assistance, while SSI supports those with disabilities and seniors.
- State-Specific Aid: Check your state government's resources for additional localized assistance programs.
Applications can usually be made online or through local social services agencies, with eligibility based on factors such as income, family size, and specific needs.
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