Do you know what it means to move from making ends meet to the reassurance of upper-middle-class security? States have varying perspectives on economic mobility, particularly those with incomes below the national average.
The Pew Research Center defines the “upper-middle class” as households earning roughly two to seven times the median income. However, what is the income threshold in the country’s 14 poorest states?
This list provides a comprehensive overview of the base salary required to maintain an upper-middle-class lifestyle in the United States, based on 2022 U.S. Census Bureau data and expert analysis. Is anyone looking to aim higher?
Mississippi
Mississippi has the country’s lowest median household income of $52,985. That would mean equal income places you at the lowest end of the upper middle class in this state, which, by Pew’s multiplier, is $105,970.
Dr. Rebekah Moore, an economist at Jackson State University, notes, “Despite low living costs, upward mobility here is still a challenge without greater access to high-paying jobs.” To increase your odds, look for advanced training or telecommuting opportunities.
West Virginia
West Virginia’s median household income is $57,917. The minimum yearly income is $ 112,548 per year at the upper-middle class level. While affordable housing remains an option, there are limited major career openings outside of healthcare and public administration. The industries are tech or engineering, where they have remote roles with higher regional pay.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, the median income is $58,773; to achieve an upper-middle-class lifestyle, one would require an annual revenue of $115,572. Local financial advisor Melissa Tran suggests, “The best route is education and skills that match emerging sectors, such as logistics and information technology.” Check out job training programs with high placement rates.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s benchmark for entering the upper middle class is $116,134, which is 102% of the median income of $57,650. Expanding economic diversity, however, is beneficial: jobs in the petrochemical and healthcare sectors remain the highest-paying. Consider the area’s certifications or consider relocating to Baton Rouge for additional opportunities.
Alabama
As a result of the $62,027 median, you’ll need $118,440 or more to reach the upper-middle class in Alabama. In rural areas, the cost of living can also further reduce this salary. Take advantage of this opportunity by investing in property or business ventures in areas that are booming in city centers, such as Birmingham.
Kentucky
The cutoff in Kentucky is $119,326, and the state’s median household income is $62,417. Upward mobility in advanced health services and manufacturing is occurring. Dr. Simon Leigh, a regional sociologist, encourages adapting to “modern labor demands” through upskilling and continuous professional development.
New Mexico
Based on the median of $62,125, New Mexico residents need at least $121,954 per year to be upper-middle class. Employers in the tech and energy sectors are attracted to the state, but educational attainment remains varied. In this market, tapping into STEM education will surely set you apart.
Oklahoma
The median income here is $67,330, nearly twice the threshold for the upper-middle class, which is $122,576. The last thing we need is more people with astronomically high credit card bills. According to a new report from the Oklahoma Policy Institute, it’s also not uncommon to hear people lack confidence that income from labor will continue.
Instead, their income could come from investing or side gigs, allowing for greater financial resilience. Having multiple sources of income and diversifying income streams is the best way for individuals and families to absorb changes in income more quickly without being laid off and still moving forward financially.
South Carolina
The median income to qualify as upper middle class in South Carolina is $69,100, and the income needed to achieve this desired status is $126,360. This is a key differentiator in terms of financial literacy. Local expert Alex Pratt recommends, “Budgeting and regular investing will build wealth quicker than relying solely on career advancement,” especially in a state with rising home prices.
Montana
Montana’s median income of $69,922 means its minimum upper-middle-class salary is $128,010. However, wages are still low; rural areas are affordable, but not sufficiently so to avoid basic poverty. Remotely work in the hot job areas or launch your side business to raise the income ceiling.
If you work abroad, this income gap can be bridged by taking on remote work in a high-demand industry, such as tech, healthcare, or digital marketing. A practical way to increase financial stability is to diversify your sources of income, thereby moving closer to the upper-middle class or high-income category.
Tennessee
Because the median income is $67,631, you will need $128,070 to join the upper middle class. More high-tech and healthcare growth is occurring in metropolitan areas, with the state experiencing an increase. Consider companies that offer tuition reimbursement or career acceleration tracks for the most significant benefits.
North Carolina
Residents of North Carolina can expect to reach the entry point of the upper middle class with a median income of $69,904, which is sustained by a household income of $130,052. As cities continue to grow with a strong research sector, data science and skills in biopharma pave the way for higher pay and promote your career.
The Research Triangle is home to many opportunities. It has a solid foundation, growing urban centers, and a substantial research and innovation sector. A well-thought-out investment can be made in upskilling in high-demand areas, such as data science or biopharmaceuticals.
Missouri
Missouri households need a median of $68,920, although they need $130,100. Kansas City and St. Louis host thriving startups and large employers offering above-average compensation. Expand your network within your industry, and if opportunities are scarce, consider relocating to urban counties.
Professionals can start by staying on top of job openings in fast-growing sectors and should be actively networking with professionals in their industry. Moving to urban counties or tech-focused neighborhoods will increase an individual’s earning potential.
Georgia
Lastly, Georgia has a median income of $72,837 and an upper-middle-class threshold of $ 141,668. Rapid job growth in Atlanta, particularly in the tech and film sectors, supports higher regional salaries. Consider credentials sought after in high-demand fields or entrepreneurship to accelerate your path to a new life.
Disclaimer – The Finance Key does not provide and does not intend to provide financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Information contained in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. Including links to third-party content is not an endorsement by The Finance Key of such content or services. Please do your due diligence and use your discretion.
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