Quality of Life for an Individual Earning $174,250 in the United States

Overview of Cost of Living

• General Cost of Living: The cost of living in the United States varies significantly based on geographic location. Coastal cities or major metropolitan areas such as New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles have a higher cost of living, while Midwest and Southern states generally offer a more affordable lifestyle.
• Basic Expenses: For someone earning $174,250 annually, the income provides a comfortable buffer above the national median household income, allowing for relative ease in covering basic expenses such as utilities, groceries, and transportation.
• Discretionary Spending: The income allows for discretionary spending on dining, entertainment, travel, and personal savings or investment, although the extent of this depends on the cost of living of the specific city or region.

Housing Market

• Average Home Prices: According to recent data, the median home price in the United States is approximately $350,000. In high-cost areas, homes can easily exceed $800,000, while in more affordable regions, homes might be priced between $150,000 and $300,000.
• Affordability: An annual salary of $174,250 can generally support home purchases in most U.S. regions, including moderately high-cost areas. However, purchasing a home in extremely high-cost metropolitan areas may require additional financial resources or adjustments on lifestyle expenses.
• Renting vs. Buying: Rent prices follow similar patterns to home prices, being higher in metropolitan areas and manageable in low-cost regions. This income supports comfortable renting in most urban environments.

Quality of Life

• Standard of Living: The income ensures a high standard of living, with many opportunities for lifestyle enhancements such as high-quality consumer goods, experiences, and leisure activities.
• Work-Life Balance: Access to amenities such as health clubs, recreational parks, and service conveniences contribute to a balanced lifestyle, assuming moderate working hours.

Access to Healthcare

• Healthcare Coverage: At this income level, individuals can afford comprehensive health insurance plans either through employer-provided benefits or private insurance, ensuring access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
• Healthcare Costs: Despite income level, healthcare costs in the U.S. are notably high, but the salary allows for managing out-of-pocket expenses, including medications and specialist visits.

Quality of K-12 Schools

• **Education Quality