Quality of Life Assessment for a Salary of $137,615 in the United States

Overview

Earning $137,615 annually positions an individual well above the median household income in the United States, which was approximately $68,700 in 2021. This suggests a relatively comfortable standard of living, but the actual quality of life can vary significantly depending on geographic location, cost of living, housing markets, and access to services.

Cost of Living

• National Variance: Cost of living varies widely across the United States. Major metropolitan areas such as San Francisco, New York City, and Los Angeles have significantly higher living costs compared to the national average.
• Discretionary Spending: With this income, discretionary spending on dining, entertainment, travel, and savings is comfortably afforded in most regions.

Housing Market

• Home Affordability:
  • Average Home Prices: With the median home price in the U.S. nearing $350,000, a salary of $137,615 generally offers a good purchasing power.
  • Region-Specific Factors: In high-demand areas, such as coastal cities, this income may still present challenges in affording a typical middle-class home without significant loan commitments.
  • Real Estate Costs: Areas with lower living costs, such as parts of the Midwest or South, provide the opportunity for larger homes or properties with sizable lots.

Quality of Life

• Lifestyle and Amenities: The income allows for a comfortable lifestyle, including access to a range of amenities such as dining, leisure activities, and technology without undue financial strain.
• Savings and Investment Potential: Ability to invest in retirement funds and other savings accounts is feasible, contributing to financial security.

Access to Healthcare

• Healthcare Affordability: With this income, comprehensive healthcare coverage is generally accessible, though premiums, co-pays, and deductibles vary significantly based on employment benefits and geographic areas.
• Quality of Care: Mostly high, with access to a variety of healthcare services and professionals, especially in urban and suburban areas with advanced healthcare facilities.

Quality of K-12 Schools

• Public School Access: Generally high-quality, with most regions offering a range of public school options. Many public schools in middle to upper-income regions provide strong academic performance and extracurricular opportunities.
• Private School and Specialized Education Options: This income allows consideration for private schooling options or