What does it take to feel “financially comfortable” today? If you’ve felt like your money isn’t going as far as it used to, you’re not alone. Prices have gone up almost everywhere, from your morning coffee to your monthly rent, and it’s starting to feel like simply staying afloat requires a six-figure income.

Many Americans say they’re not feeling secure with their finances, even if they earn more than ever before. Whether you’re working remotely, traveling full-time, or just trying to enjoy a weekend getaway, the question remains: How much income do you need to feel secure and free?

A new report sheds light on this very topic. Let’s dive into what Americans think about their income, security, and what it means to live comfortably in 2025.

Inflation and Income: Why Your Money Doesn’t Go as Far

You’ve likely noticed that your dollar doesn’t stretch as far as it used to. Even though U.S. inflation has dropped since its peak in 2022 — when it reached a staggering 9.1% — prices continue to rise. The cost of everything from groceries to gas remains higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Even worse? The rate of price growth is still higher than the Federal Reserve’s target of 2% annually. That means even “mild inflation” keeps pushing your spending higher.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that $100,000 in 2020 now has the buying power of over $124,000 in 2025. So, if your salary hasn’t increased significantly in the last few years, you’ve essentially lost nearly $24,000 in purchasing power.

Sure, average wages have risen since early 2023, but not everyone is benefiting equally. Some people have gotten raises or switched jobs for better pay, but many are still stuck earning what they did years ago. For them, life has become noticeably more expensive — without any added income to cushion the blow.

Photo: unsplash.com/@sharonmccutcheon

What Americans Say They Need to Feel ‘Comfortable’

So, how much income would make people feel comfortable, if not entirely secure?

A recent Bankrate survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults (45%) say they’d need to earn at least $100,000 a year to feel comfortable. That number is already a stretch for many households, but for others, even $100K wouldn’t be enough.

Here’s how the survey breaks down:

25% said they’d need $150,000/year

16% said they’d need $200,000/year

8% said they’d need $500,000 or more to feel financially at ease

The takeaway? The goalposts for financial comfort have shifted — and they’re still moving.

Photo: unsplash.com/@igalness

How Financial Security Varies by Income Bracket

Even with rising wages, the distribution of income gains is uneven. High-income earners have experienced some of the most significant boosts, while lower- and middle-income groups have lagged.

For example:

A household earning $50,000 today may be feeling the squeeze on essentials like housing and food.

Households in the $100,000-$150,000 range are often split — some feel secure, others don’t.

Many in the $200,000+ bracket say they can finally breathe, but even they report growing financial pressure from lifestyle inflation or family obligations.

As you can see, comfort isn’t just about how much you earn — it’s about how much your income can do for you.