With higher prices now firmly entrenched, and President Donald Trump’s tariffs fueling inflationary concerns, most Americans say they need an income boost to get by, according to a new report.
Nearly half, or 45%, of all adults said they would need to make $100,000 or more a year to feel financially secure, Bankrate’s financial freedom survey found. Roughly one-quarter, or 26%, said they need to make $150,000 or more. Fewer — 16% — put the bar at over $200,000.
By comparison, the median household income in 2023 was a little over $80,000, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates.
Altogether, the share of Americans who said they do not feel completely financially comfortable rose to 77% in 2025, up from 75% in 2024 and 72% in 2023, according to Bankrate’s survey, which polled more than 2,200 in May.
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