Millennials Are Debating If $100K Is Still A Good Middle-Class Salary In 2024 (2024)

"It depends on where you live as well — $100,000 in New York City or San Francisco is not amazing, but in the middle of Alabama? Pretty decent. Also, it depends on your spending and saving levels. If you earn $100,000 and spend $110,000 on Pog collectibles, you aren't going to be getting ahead financially, either."

—u/zhaoz

"Pretty decent in the middle of Alabama, but 30 years ago, if you made $100,000, you could have a family of five, new cars every few years, and expensive family vacations twice a year.

"We recently crossed the threshold to over $100,000, and while we have a decent life, there aren't several thousand dollars to spend on a vacation. We can't afford new cars. We're stressed out about affording a single child."

—u/Del_Phoenix

"Yeah, I'm in a high–cost of living area, and $100,000 is what you need to get by and not be sideswiped by an emergency. A friend and his wife make a combined $250,000 and do really well for themselves."

—u/thruandthruproblems

"I'm a disabled veteran and live on $25,000 a year in an urban setting. I scratch my head when people say that six figures isn't enough. Sure, it isn't what it used to be. I'm single, no kids, yes. However, add a wife, two kids, and another $25,000 for each. Some costs wouldn't repeat. Certain luxuries may be out of reach, but I just can't see it not being enough. I'm not shaming anyone or ridiculing your choices. In fact, I'm trying to make those who say that feel a little better. It could be worse, and even then, it can be done. I have enough space. I insist on eating real food. I have an e-bike to get around, and that credit card payment is my only debt. The VA does cover medical, so maybe bump that up to $30,000. That's roughly $425 monthly on medical expenses."

—u/Kristopherous