Understanding what it means to be middle class in America today is more than just a matter of personal finances—it’s about where you live, how much you earn, and how your income compares to others in your state. If you’ve ever wondered whether your household falls into the middle-class bracket, this guide will help you understand exactly what income qualifies as middle class in all 50 U.S. states.
Whether you’re a recent graduate starting your career, a family planning for the future, or a policymaker making community decisions, knowing the income range of the middle class offers valuable insight. Let’s dive in and explore how middle-class income is defined, why it varies, and what the specific figures look like state by state.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Households earning between 67% and 200% of the median national income (Pew Research Center) |
| U.S. Median Income (2022) | $84,000 for a family of three |
| Middle Class Range (Nationwide) | $56,600 – $169,800 |
| Highest Middle-Class Income | Maryland: $65,641 – $196,923 |
| Lowest Middle-Class Income | Mississippi: $35,323 – $105,970 |
Understanding what income you need to be middle class in your state is key to evaluating your financial health and planning your future. The middle class is shrinking in some areas and thriving in others—knowing where you stand helps you make smarter life decisions.
To dive deeper into the data, explore resources like the Pew Research Center and your state’s official economic data portals.
What Is Considered Middle Class in the U.S.?
The middle class generally refers to households that earn between two-thirds to double the national median income. According to the Pew Research Center, for a three-person household in 2022, that range falls between $56,600 and $169,800. However, this range shifts dramatically depending on cost of living, state median income, and household size.
Why Does It Vary by State?
Living expenses aren’t uniform across the country. For example, housing costs in California are much higher than in Arkansas. That means a middle-class salary in San Francisco might feel like upper class in Little Rock. Each state has its own income brackets influenced by local economies, job markets, and urban vs. rural dynamics.
Middle-Class Income Ranges by State
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of what income is considered middle class in each of the 50 U.S. states:
| State | Middle-Class Income Range |
| Alabama | $39,739 – $119,218 |
| Alaska | $57,580 – $172,740 |
| Arizona | $48,387 – $145,162 |
| Arkansas | $37,557 – $112,670 |
| California | $61,270 – $183,810 |
| Colorado | $58,399 – $175,196 |
| Connecticut | $60,142 – $180,426 |
| Delaware | $52,883 – $158,650 |
| Florida | $45,278 – $135,834 |
| Georgia | $47,570 – $142,710 |
| Hawaii | $63,209 – $189,628 |
| Idaho | $46,809 – $140,428 |
| Illinois | $52,289 – $156,866 |
| Indiana | $44,782 – $134,346 |
| Iowa | $45,563 – $136,690 |
| Kansas | $45,886 – $137,658 |
| Kentucky | $40,122 – $120,366 |
| Louisiana | $38,626 – $115,300 |
| Maine | $47,062 – $141,186 |
| Maryland | $65,641 – $196,923 |
| Massachusetts | $62,800 – $188,400 |
| Michigan | $46,583 – $139,750 |
| Minnesota | $52,098 – $156,294 |
| Mississippi | $35,323 – $105,970 |
| Missouri | $45,393 – $136,180 |
| Montana | $45,369 – $136,108 |
| Nebraska | $48,021 – $144,063 |
| Nevada | $48,496 – $145,488 |
| New Hampshire | $57,000 – $171,000 |
| New Jersey | $64,897 – $194,690 |
| New Mexico | $40,037 – $120,110 |
| New York | $55,323 – $165,970 |
| North Carolina | $45,836 – $137,508 |
| North Dakota | $50,345 – $151,035 |
| Ohio | $44,660 – $133,980 |
| Oklahoma | $42,806 – $128,418 |
| Oregon | $52,015 – $156,044 |
| Pennsylvania | $49,068 – $147,204 |
| Rhode Island | $54,000 – $162,000 |
| South Carolina | $44,000 – $132,000 |
| South Dakota | $47,000 – $141,000 |
| Tennessee | $44,000 – $132,000 |
| Texas | $50,515 – $151,560 |
| Utah | $55,603 – $166,810 |
| Vermont | $52,000 – $156,000 |
| Virginia | $56,000 – $168,000 |
| Washington | $60,000 – $180,000 |
| West Virginia | $38,000 – $114,000 |
| Wisconsin | $48,500 – $145,500 |
| Wyoming | $51,000 – $153,000 |
Practical Advice: How to Know Where You Stand
Step 1: Know Your Household Income
Add up your annual gross income from all sources. Include salary, bonuses, rental income, investments, and any other recurring income.
Step 2: Compare to State Range
Look at your state’s middle-class range. If your household income falls within the range listed above, you are statistically considered middle class.
Step 3: Consider Cost of Living
Even within a state, costs vary by city. A $100,000 income in rural areas goes further than the same amount in an expensive metro.
Step 4: Adjust for Household Size
Larger households need more income to maintain the same standard of living. Use the Pew income calculator for a more precise picture.
Factors That Affect Middle-Class Stability
- Housing Costs: Rent and mortgage expenses can consume up to 30-40% of income.
- Healthcare: Unexpected medical costs can strain even middle-class budgets.
- Debt: Credit card, auto, and student loan debts are major financial stressors.
- Education: The rising cost of education impacts upward mobility and savings.
- Inflation: Basic goods and services have become more expensive post-pandemic.
Tips to Strengthen Your Middle-Class Status
- Build an Emergency Fund: Aim for at least 3-6 months of expenses saved.
- Invest Wisely: Use employer 401(k) matches, IRAs, and diversified portfolios.
- Limit Debt: Focus on paying off high-interest loans first.
- Continue Learning: Upskilling can lead to better-paying jobs.
- Budget Smart: Track your income vs. spending to stay on target.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What income is considered upper class in the U.S.?
Households earning more than double the national median income (above $169,800) are generally considered upper class.
2. Can you be middle class and still struggle financially?
Yes. Especially in states with high living costs, middle-class incomes may not stretch far enough to cover basic needs.
3. Is middle class the same in every country?
No. The definition of middle class varies by country depending on local economic conditions and cultural standards.
4. Does being middle class mean you’re financially secure?
Not necessarily. It depends on factors like debt, savings, and regional expenses.
5. How can I move up from middle class?
Improving education, career growth, investing wisely, and reducing debt can help improve your financial standing.
