us states

You might want to sit down for this. Across the U.S., the income needed to live comfortably has quietly pulled away from what most people actually earn. When you compare the “living wage” to the median income in each state, the gap isn’t small—and in many places, it’s shockingly large.

Work varies depending on where you live, influenced by both direct and indirect factors. The ranking is based on the total score, with states ordered from the hardest-working to the least hard-working. (WalletHub, Aug 25, 2025)

So, you were fired? Yes, it sucks, but it happens to almost everyone at least once in their lives. The important part is getting what you are owed on your way out—namely your final paycheck.

We're always hearing about the top 1%—but what does that actually mean? Well, in America these days it means a salary of about $800,000 to be a one-percenter nationally. However, if we break it down state-by-state, cracking that 1% threshold varies quite significantly.

Did you know that there are currently just 3 states in the country that don't have a billionaire resident? Try and guess which states they are as you also check out the wealthiest person currently residing in all 50 states.