Have you ever wondered how your paycheck compares to others in the country? Today, we’re going through the different states and seeing what some people are bringing home. We’ll look at 18 states that have the highest average household income and explain why.
Maryland
This information comes from a World Population Review report. In Maryland, people are doing pretty well, with a median income hitting just over $90k at $90,203. It’s no surprise, really, as the state is packed with government jobs and high-tech careers thanks to its neighbor, Washington, D.C.
District of Columbia
Right on Maryland’s heels is D.C. itself, with incomes averaging about $90,088. Forget about politicians and bureaucrats because there are plenty of high-paying gigs here, making it a prime spot for people looking to make a good living. Plus, living in the capital has its perks, like tons of history and some pretty great places to eat.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is home to tech startups and some of the country’s best universities, which is why it has a median income of $89,645. There’s no place finer for innovation and education, and this means there are plenty of well-paying jobs here, too. Of course, things are also more expensive here, but at least you’re in one of America’s smartest states.
New Jersey
Just a quick train ride from the Big Apple is New Jersey, where residents earn around $89,296. Many people here commute to New York for work but enjoy a quieter life and a bit more room to stretch out at home. This way, they can enjoy all the benefits of having a big city salary but without the big city housing costs.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire might not have the biggest numbers, with an income of $88,465, but residents here don’t pay state income tax. Unlike several other states, they get to hold onto a bit more of their hard-earned cash. These extra savings can be pretty useful, and people there can use them for anything from winter heating bills to a weekend getaway in the beautiful White Mountains.
California
California is known for its astronomical cost of living, but the median income here is also high at $84,907. There are plenty of job opportunities available here, including working for tech giants or in startup scenes. No matter what kind of career you’re looking for, there’s something for practically everyone here.
Hawaii
Living in paradise, a.k.a. Hawaii, comes with a high price tag. Thankfully, the median income in Hawaii is $84,857, which helps quite a bit. Despite the high costs, the local job market remains strong, and many people work in tourism or the military here, which helps to keep the state’s economy afloat.
Washington
Washington state residents earn a median of $84,247, and like their friends in New Hampshire, they benefit from no state income tax. This means more of their earnings go directly into their pockets, whether they’re techies in Seattle or apple growers in the valleys. The tech industry is booming, too, which adds a lot of value and keeps the local economy buzzing.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, people earn a decent chunk with an average salary of $83,771, and a lot of this comes from high-flying finance and insurance jobs in places like Hartford. It’s a small state with some big earners, especially if you’re in the finance sector. Being close to other major cities like New York also means there’s plenty of room for growth.
Colorado
Colorado offers a great mix of lifestyles and an average income of $82,254 to match. Whether you’re into tech, tourism, or something a bit more outdoorsy, there’s something here for everyone. It’s the perfect place for anyone who is looking to combine their career with their lifestyle.
Virginia
Virginia has a diverse economy, including technology and government opportunities, which is why it has a healthy median income of $80,963. It doesn’t matter if you’re near D.C. or in rural areas because the state has a good mix of jobs that keep its economy going. Being so close to the nation’s capital also means it has a steady flow of federal jobs and contracts.
Utah
Utah’s tech industry is on the upswing, raising the average yearly income to $79,449. The state combines a lower cost of living with rising salaries, making it attractive to families and young professionals alike. The growth in tech and innovative industries is quickly turning the state into an important economic player in the region.
Alaska
Alaska’s oil and gas industries have driven up median incomes to $77,845. While it might be expensive to live here, given the remote location, the higher wages make it manageable, and, let’s face it, the views are worth every penny. The state’s natural resources continue to be a major boost to its economy, which means the job market is strong in these sectors.
Minnesota
With strong healthcare and manufacturing industries, Minnesota holds its own with a median income of $77,720. It’s a place known for its nice folks and even nicer paychecks, which makes those snowy winters a bit more bearable. Since the economy is so diverse, you’ll always have stability and good opportunities for growth.
New York
New York is infamous for its high rent, although the average salary of $74,314 means many people have enough to enjoy what the best parts of this city offer. From finance to fashion, it’s a state of big opportunities (and yes, big bills, too). The vibrant city atmosphere is always buzzing with new opportunities, ensuring that those who hustle can make a good life here.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be tiny, but with a median income of $74,008, size clearly isn’t everything. The state is doing well with healthcare and education, which shows that good things really do come in small packages. When you factor in all the charm of the coast, it’s easy to see why Rhode Island is an attractive place for both work and leisure.
Vermont
Like Rhode Island, Vermont is small but mighty, with an average yearly income of $72,431. The landscape attracts plenty of people, and so do the steady jobs in tourism and local crafts, which keep the economy ticking in this quiet state. People here are also big on sustainability and local business, which helps to create a strong sense of community.
Illinois
In Illinois, you’ve got Chicago with its big-city salaries and the quieter, rural areas balancing the median income at $72,205. Whether you’re in the windy city or out among the cornfields, Illinois offers a real slice of American life. The state’s diverse economy is a big plus because it means there are plenty of job opportunities in both urban and rural settings.
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