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đź’° What Salary Does a Single Person Need to Live Comfortably in Every U.S. State in 2025?

Revealed: The True Cost of Comfort in Every U.S. State—Where $80K Is Enough and Where You’ll Need Over $120K

Author

Ark
June 19, 2025

In 2025, the cost of comfort in America has officially skyrocketed. A recent study using the MIT Living Wage Calculator and SmartAsset’s budgeting formula reveals a sobering truth: in some states, a single adult needs over $120,000 per year just to live comfortably. Yes, you read that right. And it’s not just big cities—entire states have hit that benchmark.

But how much do you need where you live? Let’s break it down and find out where life is most and least affordable in America—and why it might be time to rethink your financial goals.

📊 The Study: What Does “Comfortably” Even Mean?

The study follows the 50/30/20 budgeting rule, a financial planning principle that allocates

  • 50% of income to needs (housing, food, healthcare, transportation)

  • 30% to wants (leisure, travel, entertainment)

  • 20% to savings and debt repayment

Using this framework, researchers calculated the after-tax income required to live in all 50 U.S. states—and then used tax data to determine the necessary pre-tax salary.

🏝️ The Most Expensive States for Single Adults

1. Hawaii—$124,467/year

Topping the list is no surprise: Hawaii. Paradise comes at a steep price. High housing costs, shipping expenses for goods, and elevated healthcare and grocery bills mean a single person must earn over $124,000 annually to maintain a balanced and comfortable life here.

2. Massachusetts—Over $120,000/year

With its blend of expensive cities like Boston and high healthcare costs, Massachusetts also pushes individuals past the six-figure mark. Even outside of the metro hubs, living expenses remain significantly above the national average.

🟡 Close Contenders: Nearly Six Figures

Several states don’t quite reach the $120K threshold but come very close:

  • California—with astronomical housing prices and high taxes

  • New York— Particularly costly in NYC, though upstate areas are more affordable

  • Connecticut, New Jersey, Vermont are known for steep rent, property taxes, and utility expenses

In these states, $100,000+ salaries are becoming a baseline for comfort, not luxury.

🌄 The Most Affordable States in 2025

At the other end of the spectrum, some states still offer a more accessible cost of living:

🟢 1. West Virginia—$80,829/year

The most affordable state in the U.S. for a single person, West Virginia allows for a comfortable life on a significantly lower salary. Lower housing costs, less expensive groceries, and moderate taxes contribute to this total.

2. Arkansas—$83,000 range

3. Mississippi – Low 80Ks

4. South Dakota and Oklahoma—Under $85,000/year

These states provide a realistic opportunity for a more relaxed lifestyle without the need for a high income.

💡 What’s Driving These Numbers?

Several key factors influence a state’s cost of comfortable living:

  • Housing costs (rent or mortgage)

  • Health insurance premiums

  • Transportation (car vs. public transit availability)

  • State and local taxes

  • Childcare or education (for families)

Urban density and demand also drastically skew numbers. States with major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston push costs up due to demand-driven housing markets.

📉 National Average for Comfort: $96,500–$120,000

According to this 2025 data, the average salary a single person needs to live comfortably across the U.S. falls between $96,500 and $120,000, depending on location. This is a stark increase from just a few years ago, reflecting inflation, rent hikes, and lifestyle changes post-pandemic.

🧭 What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re earning below these numbers, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It just means

  • You might need to adjust your budget (cut back on wants or seek affordable housing)

  • Consider remote work opportunities in lower-cost states

  • Start building multiple income streams or side hustles

And if you’re thinking of relocating? Let these numbers guide you toward a more financially secure and comfortable life.

🔍 Final Thoughts: Comfort Is Now a Luxury

Comfortable living is no longer a given—not even for those making what was once considered a high salary. In 2025, location matters more than ever. A $90K salary in Mississippi can buy you peace, stability, and even savings—while that same amount in Hawaii might leave you stretching every dollar.

Understanding the real costs behind “living comfortably” can help you plan smarter, work wiser, and aim higher.

đź’¬ Are you surprised by the numbers in your state? What salary would you need to feel financially secure and stress-free? Share your thoughts below or tag us on social!

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