Understanding the average salary in the USA helps you evaluate job offers, plan relocation, and compare living standards across states. Salaries in the United States vary widely based on location, industry, experience, and cost of living.
In this guide, we break down average salaries in the USA by state and by job role, using realistic 2026 estimates, and explain what these numbers actually mean for everyday life.
What Is the Average Salary in the USA?
As of 2026, the average annual salary in the USA is approximately:
$63,000 per year
(Before taxes)
However, this number alone can be misleading. Someone earning $60,000 in Mississippi may live comfortably, while the same salary in California or New York may feel tight.
Always compare salary with cost of living, not in isolation.
Also read : Cost of Living in the USA (2026): State-Wise & City Comparison
Average Salary in the USA by State (2026)
Here is a state-wise average annual salary estimate:
| State | Average Salary (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| California | $78,000 |
| New York | $76,000 |
| Massachusetts | $75,000 |
| Washington | $74,000 |
| New Jersey | $72,000 |
| Texas | $61,000 |
| Florida | $59,000 |
| Illinois | $64,000 |
| Georgia | $58,000 |
| Ohio | $57,000 |
| North Carolina | $56,000 |
| Arizona | $60,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $61,000 |
| Michigan | $59,000 |
| Mississippi | $48,000 |
Key Insight
High-salary states usually have higher housing, rent, and taxes.
Low-salary states often offer better affordability and lower living expenses.
Average Salary in the USA by Job Role
Below is a job-wise salary breakdown across major industries.
Technology & IT Jobs
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | $115,000 |
| Data Scientist | $122,000 |
| IT Support Specialist | $58,000 |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $105,000 |
| Cloud Engineer | $130,000 |
Tech jobs pay the highest but are concentrated in California, Washington, Texas, and New York.
Healthcare Jobs
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $82,000 |
| Medical Assistant | $42,000 |
| Physician | $215,000 |
| Pharmacist | $125,000 |
| Physical Therapist | $90,000 |
Healthcare salaries remain strong nationwide due to consistent demand.
Finance & Business Jobs
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Financial Analyst | $85,000 |
| Accountant | $75,000 |
| Business Analyst | $88,000 |
| HR Manager | $82,000 |
| Marketing Manager | $95,000 |
Blue-Collar & Skilled Trades
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Electrician | $60,000 |
| Plumber | $59,000 |
| Truck Driver | $65,000 |
| Construction Worker | $48,000 |
| Welder | $52,000 |
These jobs often pay above average in states with labor shortages.
Entry-Level & Service Jobs
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Retail Associate | $32,000 |
| Customer Support | $38,000 |
| Warehouse Worker | $41,000 |
| Delivery Driver | $45,000 |
| Restaurant Server | $30,000–$50,000* |
Tips can significantly increase income.
How Minimum Wage Affects Salaries
The minimum wage in the USA varies by state and city.
- Federal minimum wage: $7.25/hour
- Many states and cities mandate $12–$18/hour
Higher minimum wages push entry-level salaries upward, especially in urban areas.
Also read : Highest Paying Jobs in the USA Without a Degree (2026 Guide)
After-Tax Salary: What You Actually Take Home
Your take-home pay depends on:
- Federal income tax
- State income tax (not applicable in states like Texas & Florida)
- Social Security & Medicare
Example: A $70,000 salary typically results in $52,000–$56,000 take-home pay, depending on state.
Best States for Salary vs Cost of Living
These states offer a strong balance between income and affordability:
- Texas
- North Carolina
- Georgia
- Arizona
- Ohio
They are popular among remote workers and immigrants.
Salary Growth in the USA
Average salary growth in the US is around:
- 3–5% annually
- Faster growth in tech, healthcare, and skilled trades
Job hopping every 2–3 years is common and often leads to higher salary jumps.
The average salary in the USA depends heavily on where you live and what you do. High salaries do not always mean better quality of life unless paired with reasonable living costs.
Before accepting any job offer:
1. Compare salary vs cost of living
2. Check state tax rules
3. Understand benefits (health insurance, retirement, bonuses)
Also read : Best Credit Cards in the USA for Beginners (2026 Guide)
