Introduction
Examining a state’s average median household income provides insight into its wealth distribution. Household median income is calculated by summing the earnings of individuals aged 15 and above, residing in the same household, over a year. Single individuals typically exhibit lower median household income compared to those living with others. Families with multiple working adults and potentially employed children tend to have higher median household income, combining their collective earnings.
To determine a state’s median household income, incomes are arranged in numerical order, and the middle value is identified. This central value divides the income distribution into households above and below the state’s median income. In the United States, the average median household income is $67,521, though most states fall within the $50,000 to $90,000 range, with a few outliers.
For a detailed understanding of each state’s average income, explore the accompanying charts showcasing income data.
States With the Highest Median Household Income
(Top 10)
- District of Columbia – $96,728
- Connecticut – $84,972
- Massachusetts – $84,945
- New Jersey – $78,700
- New York – $78,089
- California – $77,339
- Washington – $75,698
- New Hampshire – $74,663
- Colorado – $74,167
- Wyoming – $71,342
States With the Least Median Household Income
(Bottom 10)
- Mississippi – $46,248
- West Virginia – $49,169
- Alabama – $50,637
- New Mexico – $51,500
- Arkansas – $51,787
- Kentucky – $52,109
- South Carolina – $53,320
- Idaho – $54,537
- Louisiana – $54,622
- Oklahoma – $54,998
Number of Median Household Income by State (All 50 States)
| Rank | State | Average Income (2022) | Percentage Change (vs. 2021) | Income Category |
| 1 | District of Columbia | $96,728 | 0.26% | High |
| 2 | Connecticut | $84,972 | 2.01% | High |
| 3 | Massachusetts | $84,945 | 1.54% | High |
| 4 | New Jersey | $78,700 | 2.19% | High |
| 5 | New York | $78,089 | 1.63% | High |
| 6 | California | $77,339 | 0.95% | High |
| 7 | Washington | $75,698 | 2.61% | High |
| 8 | New Hampshire | $74,663 | 2.00% | High |
| 9 | Colorado | $74,167 | 4.89% | High |
| 10 | Wyoming | $71,342 | 2.41% | High |
| 11 | Maryland | $70,730 | 1.31% | High |
| 12 | Alaska | $68,919 | 4.72% | High |
| 13 | Illinois | $68,822 | 2.35% | High |
| 14 | Virginia | $68,211 | 2.87% | High |
| 15 | Minnesota | $68,010 | 2.61% | High |
| 16 | North Dakota | $66,184 | 2.57% | High |
| 17 | South Dakota | $65,806 | 2.08% | High |
| 18 | Rhode Island | $65,377 | 1.55% | High |
| 19 | Pennsylvania | $65,167 | 1.38% | High |
| 20 | Florida | $63,597 | 2.13% | Medium |
| 21 | Nebraska | $63,321 | 3.46% | Medium |
| 22 | Vermont | $63,206 | 2.14% | Medium |
| 23 | Oregon | $62,767 | 1.90% | Medium |
| 24 | Texas | $61,985 | 3.54% | Medium |
| 25 | Delaware | $61,387 | 2.43% | Medium |
| 26 | Nevada | $61,282 | 1.78% | Medium |
| 27 | Wisconsin | $61,210 | 2.66% | Medium |
| 28 | Hawaii | $61,175 | 0.37% | Medium |
| 29 | Kansas | $60,152 | 2.08% | Medium |
| 30 | Maine | $59,463 | 1.67% | Medium |
| 31 | Iowa | $58,905 | 3.05% | Medium |
| 32 | Tennessee | $58,279 | 3.04% | Medium |
| 33 | Indiana | $57,930 | 2.54% | Medium |
| 34 | Utah | $57,925 | 3.40% | Medium |
| 35 | Ohio | $57,880 | 1.76% | Medium |
| 36 | Montana | $57,719 | 1.35% | Medium |
| 37 | North Carolina | $57,416 | 2.21% | Medium |
| 38 | Georgia | $57,129 | 2.41% | Medium |
| 39 | Michigan | $56,813 | 0.56% | Medium |
| 40 | Arizona | $56,667 | 2.13% | Medium |
| 41 | Missouri | $56,551 | 2.22% | Medium |
| 42 | Oklahoma | $54,998 | 2.09% | Medium |
| 43 | Louisiana | $54,622 | 0.75% | Medium |
| 44 | Idaho | $54,537 | 4.14% | Medium |
| 45 | South Carolina | $53,320 | 1.63% | Medium |
| 46 | Kentucky | $52,109 | 1.64% | Medium |
| 47 | Arkansas | $51,787 | 2.30% | Medium |
| 48 | New Mexico | $51,500 | 2.36% | Low |
| 49 | Alabama | $50,637 | 1.74% | Low |
| 50 | West Virginia | $49,169 | 1.40% | Low |
| 51 | Mississippi | $46,248 | 0.80% | Low |
States With the Most and Least Median Household Income
The District of Columbia led the list of states with the highest median household income, showcasing a robust economic landscape. Connecticut followed closely behind, securing the second spot, while Massachusetts and New Jersey claimed the third and fourth positions, respectively. The diverse economic sectors of New York placed it in the fifth position. California, with its vast and varied economy, occupied the sixth spot, followed by Washington, New Hampshire, Colorado, and Wyoming, each showcasing unique economic profiles. These states represent a spectrum of median household incomes, reflecting the dynamic economic conditions and opportunities present across different regions in the United States.
State with Most Median Household Income
The District of Columbia holds the noteworthy distinction of having the highest median household income in the United States in 2022, reporting an impressive economic standing. With a median income that leads the nation, several factors contribute to this economic success. The District of Columbia benefits from its unique status as the capital, hosting a concentration of high-paying government jobs and associated industries. Additionally, the region’s thriving professional and business sectors contribute significantly to the robust median household income. The urban setting, coupled with a diverse and well-educated population, further enhances economic opportunities. The District’s economic prosperity underscores the importance of local factors and industries in shaping the financial landscape and median income levels within a specific region.
State with Fewest Median Household Income
In terms of median household income, some states in 2022 reported the lowest figures, reflecting specific economic challenges. Among these states are Mississippi, West Virginia, Alabama, New Mexico, Arkansas, and Kentucky. These regions face unique economic circumstances that contribute to lower median incomes. Factors such as a lower cost of living, limited job opportunities, and a dependence on certain industries may influence these outcomes. Understanding the economic challenges in states with lower median household incomes is essential for implementing targeted policies to address disparities and improve overall financial well-being in these areas. By acknowledging the diverse economic landscapes across states, policymakers can develop strategies that cater to the specific needs of communities with lower median household incomes.
FAQs
1. What state has the most median household income?
- The state that has the most median household income is District of Columbia with $96,728
2. What are the ten states with the highest number of median household income?
The top ten states with the highest number of median household income are:
- District of Columbia – $96,728
- Connecticut – $84,972
- Massachusetts – $84,945
- New Jersey – $78,700
- New York – $78,089
- California – $77,339
- Washington – $75,698
- New Hampshire – $74,663
- Colorado – $74,167
- Wyoming – $71,342
3. What are the top 5 states with the most median household income?
- In 2022, median household incomes varied across states, with the District of Columbia leading at $96,728, followed by Connecticut ($84,972), Massachusetts ($84,945), New Jersey ($78,700), and New York ($78,089). These figures highlight regional economic diversity, emphasizing the importance of targeted policies to address income disparities and promote overall financial well-being.
Sources
- S1903 – Median Income in the Past 12 Months – US Census Bureau
- Income in the United States: 2021″. Census.gov. Retrieved May 22, 2023.
- Real Median Household Income by Race and Hispanic Origin: 1967 to 2020″ (PDF). Retrieved July 27, 2023.