Top 5 cities for Americans earning $50,000
Not a millionaire yet?
You’re not alone. The median household income in the country as of September was $61,372, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
And even though the U.S. economy is on a steady path toward recovery, in some high-tax cities it can be tough to get by.
GOBankingRates looked at the 100 most populous metropolitan areas and analyzed a number of factors including median rent, the cost of groceries, utilities and transportation, as well as taxes to determine where a $50,000 salary would get you the furthest.
Here’s a look at the results:
1. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis ranked top on GOBankingRates’ list of the best cities for those making $50,000. Median rent in the city is about $855, while monthly transportation costs only come out to about $47.50.
An individual with an income of $50,000 would have an after-tax income of about $41,806. With all costs considered, researchers estimate the average person would have $25,978 in left-over income.
The median income in the city itself is only $38,230.
2. El Paso, Texas
Similar to Memphis, an individual with $50,000 in income will receive an after-tax check of nearly $42,000 in El Paso.
The median rent in this Texas city is slightly higher, however, at $1,016. The average cost of groceries per month is about $192.34, while utilities tend to set the average resident back about $118.39.
Left-over income would be valued around $25,327 for someone with a salary of $50,000.
The median income in El Paso is about $44,431.
3. Toledo, Ohio
Ranking third on the list is Toledo, Ohio. Median rent in Toledo is fairly low, just shy of $800.
If you’re making $50,000 in Toledo, you’re after-tax income will average out to about $39,629. After all regular costs are accounted for, left-over income is estimated around $24,105.
The median income in the city is $35,808.
4. Cleveland, Ohio
Another Ohio town took the fourth spot on the list: Cleveland.
Costs in this town might be lower considering the median income in Cleveland is almost half of $50,000 – at $27,854.
The median rent is $887, while transportation costs are about $50 per month. Utilities average out to about $143.
Based on a $50,000 salary, take home income, after taxes and expenses, averages out to about $22,938.
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5. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tusla, Oklahoma, assumed the fifth spot on GOBankingRates’ rankings.
The median rent in the city is about $963, while utilities cost about $149.
When all expenses are taken into account, including taxes, the average individual making $50,000 would have about $22,424 left over.