As costs for groceries, housing, and childcare continue to rise, middle-class families across the U.S. are finding it harder to make ends meet—let alone save for the future.

A new analysis from Upgraded Points reveals where in the U.S. a middle-class income stretches the furthest, highlighting areas where families can afford more than just getting by.

Key Takeaways, With Data for New York State

• Some high-cost locations defy expectations: Some of the most expensive areas in the U.S. also give families the most financial breathing room, thanks to high wages outpacing elevated living costs. For example, San Jose, DC, and Seattle all leave families with over $60K after basic expenses; at the state level, Maryland leads with nearly $56K.
• Low cost of living isn’t the only factor: While some states, such as North Dakota or Kansas, require lower median incomes for necessities and allow families to retain more, other lower-cost states—like West Virginia, Wyoming, and New Mexico—rank poorly due to incomes that lag behind even modest living expenses.
• Middle-class affordability in New York State: Middle-class families need $136,859 to cover necessities in New York State, such as housing, food, childcare, transportation, healthcare, and more. With a median income of $144,000, they’re left with $7,141 after essential expenses—making New York State the 4th least affordable state for middle-class families.

The full report provides detailed income data and breakdowns of necessities across 230 U.S. metros and all 50 states.