Living the American Dream for less: Discover the most affordable US city that still requires a six-figure salary
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The idea of the American Dream—owning a home, raising a family, and enjoying financial stability—has been a cornerstone of life in the US for generations.
But with the rising cost of living, what was once an attainable goal now feels increasingly out of reach for many.
Even in the most "affordable" cities, achieving this dream comes with a surprising price tag.
Many families find themselves caught between two tough choices: stretching their budgets to afford life in a big city or relocating to a more affordable area where salaries might not keep up with expenses.
With housing costs, child care, and daily necessities all on the rise, finding a place where you can truly live comfortably without breaking the bank has become more challenging than ever.
But is there still a city where the dream is within reach?
A recent study by GoBankingRates reveals that Wichita, Kansas, is the most budget-friendly major city where families can still achieve the American Dream.
However, even in Wichita, a six-figure salary is needed to live comfortably.
According to the study, a household must earn just over $102,000 per year to cover essential expenses such as housing, transportation, groceries, and child care.
While Wichita is significantly more affordable than many other US cities, the reality is that the median household income there is only $63,072.
That’s nearly $40,000 less than what’s needed for a comfortable lifestyle, highlighting the financial challenges many families face.
"For years, Americans have felt that a six-figure income is necessary to feel financially stable," says Heather Taylor, a writer for GoBankingRates.
"Now, that sentiment is becoming a reality, even in cities that are considered affordable."
The study also sheds light on how much it takes to live comfortably in other parts of the country.
In Washington, DC—the most expensive city on the list—a family must earn nearly $190,000 per year.
Other high-cost cities, including Boston, New York City, San Francisco, and San Jose, require salaries of $167,000 or more.
California stands out as the most expensive state, with nine cities on the list where families need over $102,000 to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
The numbers make one thing clear: No matter where you live, the cost of achieving financial security continues to climb.
For families across the US, housing remains the largest expense.
Rising mortgage rates have made homeownership more expensive than ever, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate jumping from 2.1% in 2021 to between 6% and 7% since late 2022.
This sharp increase has nearly doubled average monthly mortgage payments in just a few years.
Child care is another major financial strain.
In 28 states, daycare now costs more than public college tuition.
Since 1990, child care costs have increased by 220%—far outpacing general inflation and making it one of the most significant financial burdens for families.
When historian James Truslow Adams first described the "American Dream" in 1931, he envisioned a nation where anyone could achieve success, regardless of their background.
Over time, that dream has come to represent homeownership, stable employment, and financial independence.
But as costs continue to rise, many are rethinking what it truly means to "live the dream."
Cities like Wichita offer a glimpse of hope for those looking for a more affordable path, but the reality remains: Even in the least expensive places, financial security requires careful planning, budgeting, and—more than ever—a higher income.
Read next: Escape the crowds and save big on your next trip with these clever "destination dupes"
For many of our GrayVine readers, the concept of the American Dream has evolved over the years. What does it mean to you today? Have you found ways to maintain financial security without breaking the bank? Join the conversation in the comments below and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear your perspective!
But with the rising cost of living, what was once an attainable goal now feels increasingly out of reach for many.
Even in the most "affordable" cities, achieving this dream comes with a surprising price tag.
Many families find themselves caught between two tough choices: stretching their budgets to afford life in a big city or relocating to a more affordable area where salaries might not keep up with expenses.
With housing costs, child care, and daily necessities all on the rise, finding a place where you can truly live comfortably without breaking the bank has become more challenging than ever.
But is there still a city where the dream is within reach?
Even in the most affordable US cities, the cost of achieving the American Dream is higher than many expect. Image Source: Pexels / Sawyer Sutton.
Wichita, Kansas: The most budget-friendly city for the American Dream
A recent study by GoBankingRates reveals that Wichita, Kansas, is the most budget-friendly major city where families can still achieve the American Dream.
However, even in Wichita, a six-figure salary is needed to live comfortably.
According to the study, a household must earn just over $102,000 per year to cover essential expenses such as housing, transportation, groceries, and child care.
While Wichita is significantly more affordable than many other US cities, the reality is that the median household income there is only $63,072.
That’s nearly $40,000 less than what’s needed for a comfortable lifestyle, highlighting the financial challenges many families face.
"For years, Americans have felt that a six-figure income is necessary to feel financially stable," says Heather Taylor, a writer for GoBankingRates.
"Now, that sentiment is becoming a reality, even in cities that are considered affordable."
Also read: The top 10 cities in the US where fun never ends – See if your city made the list!
How does Wichita compare to other cities?
The study also sheds light on how much it takes to live comfortably in other parts of the country.
In Washington, DC—the most expensive city on the list—a family must earn nearly $190,000 per year.
Other high-cost cities, including Boston, New York City, San Francisco, and San Jose, require salaries of $167,000 or more.
California stands out as the most expensive state, with nine cities on the list where families need over $102,000 to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
The numbers make one thing clear: No matter where you live, the cost of achieving financial security continues to climb.
Wichita, Kansas—America’s most affordable major city still comes with a six-figure price tag for a comfortable life. Image Source: YouTube / TravelScout (right) and Mileage Mike Travels (left).
Also read: Get paid to move: Discover the 5 US cities offering cash to new residents–Are you eligible?
The biggest financial hurdles: Housing and child care
For families across the US, housing remains the largest expense.
Rising mortgage rates have made homeownership more expensive than ever, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate jumping from 2.1% in 2021 to between 6% and 7% since late 2022.
This sharp increase has nearly doubled average monthly mortgage payments in just a few years.
Child care is another major financial strain.
In 28 states, daycare now costs more than public college tuition.
Since 1990, child care costs have increased by 220%—far outpacing general inflation and making it one of the most significant financial burdens for families.
Also read: This village is offering free housing for seniors! Discover why and find out who qualifies
Has the American Dream changed?
When historian James Truslow Adams first described the "American Dream" in 1931, he envisioned a nation where anyone could achieve success, regardless of their background.
Over time, that dream has come to represent homeownership, stable employment, and financial independence.
But as costs continue to rise, many are rethinking what it truly means to "live the dream."
Cities like Wichita offer a glimpse of hope for those looking for a more affordable path, but the reality remains: Even in the least expensive places, financial security requires careful planning, budgeting, and—more than ever—a higher income.
Read next: Escape the crowds and save big on your next trip with these clever "destination dupes"
For many of our GrayVine readers, the concept of the American Dream has evolved over the years. What does it mean to you today? Have you found ways to maintain financial security without breaking the bank? Join the conversation in the comments below and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear your perspective!
