Across the country, Americans are discovering that “living comfortably” now carries a much higher price tag. Essentials like rent, groceries, and child care have grown more expensive in nearly every region—and, in some cities, families need to earn well into six figures just to keep up with the basics. In a new analysis, researchers at Upgraded Points reveal how much income Americans need to live comfortably in every U.S. city and state, using the latest data from the Economic Policy Institute and U.S. Census Bureau to calculate a comfortable living wage for individuals, 2-adult households without children, and 2-adult households with 1 to 3 children.

Across the country, Americans are discovering that “living comfortably” now carries a much higher price tag. Essentials like rent, groceries, and child care have grown more expensive in nearly every region—and, in some cities, families need to earn well into six figures just to keep up with the basics. In a new analysis, researchers at Upgraded Points reveal how much income Americans need to live comfortably in every U.S. city and state, using the latest data from the Economic Policy Institute and U.S. Census Bureau to calculate a comfortable living wage for individuals, 2-adult households without children, and 2-adult households with 1 to 3 children.

A new analysis from Upgraded Points reveals which U.S. metros and states are the most and least affordable for recent college graduates, comparing median earnings with cost-of-living estimates to identify where new grads can get the strongest start—and where even solid salaries may fall short.

A new analysis from Upgraded Points reveals which U.S. metros and states are the most and least affordable for recent college graduates, comparing median earnings with cost-of-living estimates to identify where new grads can get the strongest start—and where even solid salaries may fall short.