Quality of Life for Annual Earnings of $138,635 in the United States
This assessment provides an overview of the quality of life someone earning $138,635 annually might experience in the United States, considering factors such as cost of living, housing market, healthcare access, and the quality of K-12 schools.
Cost of Living
Overall Affordability:
- With an income of $138,635, individuals can comfortably meet the average cost of living in most parts of the U.S.
- Major expenses include housing, transportation, food, and healthcare.
Geographic Variability:
- Urban areas and coastal cities (e.g., New York, San Francisco) often have higher living costs.
- Midwestern and Southern states typically offer a lower cost of living.
Housing Market
Home Affordability:
- The median home price in the U.S. is approximately $375,000 (as of 2023).
- With a salary of $138,635, a person could afford a home at or slightly above the median price, depending on location and lending terms.
Regional Differences:
- High demand and prices in cities like San Francisco, LA, New York result in less homeownership opportunity.
- Affordable markets in regions like the Midwest offer better opportunities for owning larger properties.
Quality of Life
Discretionary Income:
- A comfortable income leaves room for discretionary spending on leisure, dining, and tourism.
- Potential for substantial savings or investments, depending on personal financial management.
Work-Life Balance:
- With appropriate job benefits, this salary supports a good work-life balance with access to entertainment, travel, and educational opportunities.
Access to Healthcare
Insurance Coverage:
- A higher income allows for comprehensive healthcare insurance options, often job-related.
- Out-of-pocket costs for health services remain manageable with this income level.
Healthcare Quality:
- Access to some of the world's best healthcare facilities and services, particularly in urban centers.
- Potential disparities in rural areas, with limited options and travel sometimes necessary for specialized care.
Quality of K-12 Schools
Public School Advantage:
- Higher income areas often correlate with better-funded and higher-performing public schools.
Private Education:
- Ample income to explore private schooling options if desired, with opportunities
