Quality of Life for a $83,045 Annual Income in the United States

Living with an annual income of $83,045 in the United States offers a moderate quality of life, depending largely on the regional cost of living and housing market conditions. Here's an assessment of various factors that contribute to the overall quality of life:

Cost of Living

• National Average Context: The median household income in the U.S. as of 2023 is approximately $70,000. Earning $83,045 places one slightly above the national median.
• Regional Variations:
  • Urban areas like New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco have a higher cost of living, potentially making this income feel less substantial.
  • In smaller cities or rural areas, this salary can offer a more comfortable lifestyle.
• Expense Breakdown:
  • Housing: Significant portion of income, especially in high-demand regions.
  • Transportation: Costs vary; owning a car in rural regions vs. public transport in urban areas.
  • Food and Utilities: Generally manageable, but higher in cities with elevated living costs.

Housing Market

• Home Affordability:
  • Nationwide, the median home price hovers around $400,000. With a $83,045 income, home ownership may be challenging without dual earners or additional income sources, particularly in metropolitan areas.
  • More feasible in less expensive markets where home prices are below the national average.
• Rental Market:
  • Rental prices continue to increase, but income allows some flexibility in housing choice, notably in less inflated markets.

Quality of Life

• Lifestyle and Comfort:
  • Middle-income status provides for basic needs and modest comforts.
  • Discretionary income allows occasional leisure activities, vacations, and savings opportunities.
• Work-Life Balance: Employment type and location can impact personal time and family life, with remote work being a mitigator in achieving balance.

Access to Healthcare

• Healthcare Affordability:
  • Employer-provided health insurance often improves access and affordability.
  • Out-of-pocket healthcare expenses can be a burden, varying by insurance coverage.
• Healthcare Quality: Generally high in urban regions with established medical facilities, but disparities exist in rural zones.

Quality of K-12 Schools

• Public School System:
  • Areas with higher property taxes tend to have better-funded and higher-quality public schools.