Episode Description:

In this episode, we break down what it really takes to live a "middle class" lifestyle today — and why a $200,000 annual income might just be the baseline. Here's what we cover:

• The surprising reality behind what $200K gets you in today’s economy
• Home prices in most markets: $550K–$700K for an above-average house
• Typical mortgage payments on a $600K home with 10% down: ~$4,000/month
• Add property tax and insurance: ~$1,000/month
• Monthly housing total: ~$5,000/month
• The cost of a decent new car: $40K–$50K
• Car payment estimate: ~$1,000/month
• Adding gas and insurance: another $600–$800/month
• Basic utilities and internet: ~$1,000/month
• Monthly food budget for a family: ~$1,000/month
• School fees, birthday gifts, and kid expenses: $500–$600/month
• Occasional home purchases and maintenance costs
• Cell phone bills for a family: ~$300–$400/month
• Streaming and entertainment subscriptions: ~$200–$300/month
• Total monthly expenses without luxury: ~$10,500
• Including dining out and modest vacations: $12,000–$13,000/month
• Annual household spending estimate: ~$156,000 take-home
• Gross income required (after taxes): ~$208,000
• And that doesn’t even include retirement savings or emergency funds

Key Takeaway:
A $200K annual household income is no longer considered wealthy — it's often just enough to maintain a stable, comfortable, middle-class lifestyle in many parts of the U.S.