The cost of living comfortably in the U.S. has risen: a family of four needs $330,000.

In the United States, the cost of living is also driving up the annual income needed to live comfortably. According to SmartAsset's study covering 50 states, in 2026 a person living alone in 23 states will need to earn a gross annual income of more than $100,000 to live comfortably.

The Highest Income Required in Hawaii

In the study, Hawaii was the state where a person living alone needed the highest income to sustain a comfortable life. Massachusetts, California and New York followed Hawaii.

The calculated annual gross income requirements for 2026 are as follows:

Hawaii:$129,002

Massachusetts:127 thousand 213 dollars

California:126 thousand 797 dollars

New York:124 thousand 342 dollars

New Jersey:113,776 dollars

Washington:110,614 dollars

Connecticut:108,368 dollars

Florida:100,214 dollars

Texas:90,563 dollars

Exceeds 329,000 dollars for a four-person family

One of the study's striking findings was the cost of living for families. It was calculated that a four-person family in Massachusetts would need an annual income of 329,555 dollars to maintain a comfortable life.

In contrast, the state with the lowest income required for comfortable living was identified as West Virginia. In that state, a single person needs an annual gross income of $81,245.

Which Expenses Are Included in the Calculation?

In SmartAsset's study, not only rent and utilities are considered; food, transportation, personal expenses, and the ability to save are also taken into account.

The stated amounts represent annual gross incomes before taxes. Therefore, the net amount a person receives can vary depending on the tax burden in the state where they live and their personal circumstances.