Being middle class isn’t as simple as just feeling like you’re getting by.
A new study from SmartAsset breaks down exactly what it takes to be considered middle class in Columbus—and spoiler alert, it’s not the same as in other parts of Ohio or the country.
Defining Middle Class
SmartAsset used Pew Research’s definition, which considers households earning between two-thirds and double the median income in their area. Based on the latest U.S. Census data, the national median income is $74,225. That means to be middle class in America, a household needs to earn between roughly $49,500 and $148,500.
But the numbers shift depending on where you live. In Ohio, the middle-class range starts at $45,175 and tops out at $135,538. Here in Columbus, the numbers dip slightly lower: a household needs to earn between $41,563 and $124,700 to qualify as middle class. That puts Columbus at 77 out of the 100 largest U.S. cities in terms of middle-class income range.
How Columbus Compares
Compared to the rest of Ohio, Columbus is actually in a stronger position. Other Ohio cities in the study ranked even lower:
- Cincinnati: Middle-class range of $38,882–$116,668 (Ranked #93)
- Toledo: Middle-class range of $34,115–$102,346 (Ranked #98)
- Cleveland: Middle-class range of $26,025–$78,082 (Ranked #99)
The Most Expensive Places to Be Middle Class
If you’ve ever thought about packing up and moving to Arlington, Virginia, you might want to check your paycheck first. Arlington tops the list as the hardest place to reach middle-class status, with a median income of over $140,000. To even get your foot in the middle-class door, a household there needs to earn at least $93,400—an amount that would already push someone toward the upper class in many other cities.
On the flip side, Mississippi remains the most affordable state for middle-class living. A household income of just over $36,000 can qualify as middle class there. The only other states where less than $40,000 is enough? Arkansas, Louisiana, and West Virginia.
Meanwhile, Massachusetts has taken over as the most expensive state for mid-level earners, knocking New Jersey off the top spot. Households need to bring in at least $66,565 to land in Massachusetts' middle class.
What Does This Mean for Columbus?
Columbus may not be the cheapest place to be middle class, but it's far from the worst. The city remains more affordable than many major metro areas, even as income requirements continue to climb. The big takeaway? Whether you’re comfortably in the middle class or working your way up, where you live plays a huge role in what your paycheck actually gets you.
You can view the full data here.
Featured image via Shep McAllister on Unsplash.
