Quality of Life Assessment for a $97,665 Annual Income in the United States

Making $97,665 per year in the United States places an individual above the median household income, providing a relatively comfortable lifestyle in many parts of the country. However, the overall quality of life can vary significantly depending on location due to diverse cost of living and housing markets. Below is an analysis of key factors affecting quality of life:

Cost of Living

• Cost Index: Varies widely across states; living in urban areas like New York City or San Francisco can be significantly more expensive than in rural areas or smaller cities.
• Expense Breakdown:
  • Housing: Major expense, accounting for approximately 30% of income. High variability based on region.
  • Utilities & Groceries: Moderate and generally consistent across the country but can be high in remote areas.
  • Transportation: Costs depend on reliance on personal vehicles versus public transit options.
  • Entertainment & Dining: More expensive in urban hotspots but affordable in suburban and rural regions.

Housing Market

• Median Home Price: As of 2023, the national median home price is approximately $400,000. Regions with booming real estate markets often require higher income for home ownership.
• Affordability: On a $97,665 salary:
  • Easier Homeownership: In states with a lower cost of living, such as Ohio or Mississippi.
  • Challenging Markets: In coastal cities and tech hubs where home prices significantly exceed national averages.

Quality of Life

• Disposable Income: Higher in areas with a low cost of living, allowing for savings and discretionary spending.
• Work-Life Balance: Dependent on industry and regional employment norms; some states afford more leisure time and quality family life opportunities.
• Community and Culture: Access to diverse cultures and community activities, particularly in metropolitan areas.

Access to Healthcare

• Healthcare System: Generally good access nationwide, though quality and speed of service can vary.
• Insurance Costs: A significant expense; employer-sponsored insurance can ease this burden.
• Healthcare Quality: High-quality care available but often more accessible in urban centers.

Quality of K-12 Schools

• Public Education Quality: Varies by district, with suburban areas often having better-funded and higher-ranked schools.
• Private School Options: Available but more costly; higher income allows for greater choice.
• **Extracurricular