Money Guy Show The Average American Needs HOW MUCH to Feel Comfortable in 2026?
Dec 31, 2025
Discover how much income is deemed 'comfortable' in 2026 according to a new study, and explore regional disparities in costs. The hosts dissect spending assumptions and emphasize living within your means. They discuss strategies for tracking finances and emphasize the importance of saving directionally. Topics also include financial advice for minors, employer HSA contributions, and tips for dating partners with similar financial values. Finally, they reflect on retirement savings and guide listeners for the upcoming year.
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Study's 'Comfortable' Income Feels Unrealistic
- The Economic Policy Institute's "comfortable" income thresholds (e.g., $107k single, $194k with one child) are much higher than median incomes and shocking to many listeners.
- Bo and Brian argue those definitions assume persistent high discretionary and transportation costs, which inflates the results.
Big Line Items Drive Big Income Figures
- The study's cost assumptions (like $1,000/month transportation and $2,600/month discretionary for a single adult) drive the high required incomes.
- Those line items reflect a specific lifestyle definition of "comfortable," not universal reality.
Pull Two Levers: Income Or Expenses
- Focus on what you can control: increase income or lower expenses to improve comfort.
- Use rules for big purchases (e.g., 23‑8 car rules, 3‑5‑25 for homes) to avoid overspending.