10 States With The Absolute Highest Median Income

When people talk about income, the numbers can be confusing. Some reports use average income, which is simply the total income divided by the number of people. But averages can be misleading because a few very high earners can skew the numbers, making it look like everyone is richer than they really are. That's why economists often prefer the median. The median is the middle point: half of the people earn more, and half earn less. It gives a clearer picture of what a "typical" worker or household makes.

Even within "median," there are actually two different measures. Median household income is the combined income of any person who lives in the home, including all working adults, retirement income, and other sources. This number is usually higher because many households have more than one earner. Median individual earnings, on the other hand, focus only on what a single full‑time, year‑round worker earns. This is the best way to understand what the typical worker actually takes home.

In 2024, the national median household income was $81,604, while the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was about $61,500. For comparison, the average (also called mean) household income was close to $110,000. For this ranking, we use median individual earnings from the most recent U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey. Each of the top states are either on the East or West Coasts, with Colorado as the inland exception.

The U.S. median individual earnings for full‑time, year‑round workers in Alaska was $69,063, placing it number 10 according to U.S. Census Bureau data, even though its population is small compared to most states. That means the typical worker in Alaska earns more than the national median by a comfortable margin. But when we look at median household income, the number jumps to $95,665, placing it 11th in the nation. The average household income for Alaska was just over $122,000, putting the Last Frontier state 13th in the country. The gap between household income figures and individual median income is wide because many Alaskan households have two earners, often both working in high‑paying industries.

Oil and gas extraction drives much of Alaska's wealth. Companies that operate in Prudhoe Bay and other remote areas must pay high wages to attract workers willing to live and work in harsh conditions. These jobs require technical skills and long hours, but they pay salaries well above the national median. Federal and military employment also plays a significant role. Alaska hosts several large military bases, and the federal government invests heavily in infrastructure and defense here. These jobs provide stability and substantial benefits, which push incomes higher.

Alaska's geographical location also plays a role. Because Alaska is isolated, the cost of living is high. Groceries, fuel, and housing often cost far more than in the lower 48, so employers raise wages to offset these expenses. Seasonal industries like commercial fishing and tourism add variety, though those jobs are less stable and not always full‑time. In addition, each eligible Alaskan resident is eligible for the Permanent Fund Dividend, an annual payment from oil revenues averaging $1,300, and payments have been as high $3,300.

New Hampshire may be small, but it consistently ranks high in income statistics. In 2024, the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was $69,275, while the median household income was a striking $99,782, ranking it 6th in the nation. The average household income in the Granite State was $128,604, placing it 9th in the country. The household median is more than $30,000 higher, showing how common dual‑earner families are.

Several industries drive these numbers. Healthcare and education provide steady, well‑paid jobs. Advanced manufacturing also plays a major role. Unlike many states that lost manufacturing, New Hampshire has held onto high‑tech production, including textiles, electronics, aerospace parts, and medical devices. These industries require skilled workers and reward them with above‑average wages.

Geography gives New Hampshire another advantage. The state borders Massachusetts, and many residents commute daily to Boston. These commuters earn Massachusetts‑level salaries (number #1 on our list) but live in New Hampshire, where housing is more affordable and taxes are lower. New Hampshire also has one of the lowest poverty rates in the country and relatively low unemployment. The state's tax structure is another factor. The state has no state income tax or sales tax, which tends to attract wealthier households because it allows them to keep more of what they earn.

California's economy is larger than most countries'. In fact, this year, "The Golden State" officially surpassed Japan to become the 4th-largest economy in the world. In 2024, the median individual earnings reached $70,031, while the median household income climbed to $100,149, ranking the state 5th in the nation. The average household income was $140,001, placing it 3rd in the country. The mean household income is double the median individual income because many families have multiple earners in high‑paying industries due to the high cost of living and the state's urban and industry mix. While these numbers reflect the state's size and diversity, there are significant regional differences.

Northern California's Silicon Valley drives much of the wealth. Tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta pay engineers, designers, and managers salaries that rank among the highest in the nation. The tech sector also fuels supporting industries such as law, finance, and real estate. Southern California adds its own strengths. Hollywood remains the global center for film and television, supporting thousands of jobs in entertainment and media. Aerospace and defense companies also employ large numbers of skilled workers. Meanwhile, the Central Valley produces much of the nation's fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Farm labor often pays less, but the broader agricultural industry supports higher‑paying jobs in logistics, food processing, and distribution.

California's wealth comes with challenges. Housing costs in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego rank among the highest in the country. Even families with six‑figure incomes often struggle to afford homes. Rural areas and the Inland Empire lag behind coastal cities. Still, California's economic power ensures that both individual and household incomes remain high. Its mix of technology, entertainment, agriculture, and trade makes it one of the most dynamic states in the nation.

New York is another state with a massive economy. If it were a country, it would be the 9th largest in the world, roughly the size of Canada's economy. In 2024, the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was $70,254. The median household income was $85,820, ranking 15th in the nation. The average household income in the Empire State was $128,562, placing it 10th in the country. Household income reflects the state's high cost of living. Families often need two earners to manage housing, childcare, and transportation costs.

At the top of the scale is New York City, the world's financial capital. Wall Street drives much of the state's wealth, with jobs in banking, investment, and insurance paying some of the highest salaries in the country. The Big Apple is home to influential financial companies such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup. The city hosts the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq, the two largest stock exchanges in the world by market capitalization. NYC is a hub for cutting-edge financial technologies such as blockchain and AI, and is supported by top-tier universities like Columbia and NYU. New York City is also a leader in media and healthcare. Major television networks, publishing houses, and digital media companies are based in the city. The healthcare sector is massive, with world‑class hospitals and research centers.

Outside of New York City, the picture is different. Upstate New York has a mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and education, but wages are generally lower. This creates a sharp contrast between the city's high incomes and the more modest earnings in rural areas. Despite these differences, the overall median income is high because of the concentration of high‑paying jobs in New York City and its suburbs. 

Colorado stands out as the only inland state in the top 10. In 2024, the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was $72,028, while the median household income was $97,113, ranking it 8th in the nation. The average household income in the Centennial State was $131,072, also placing it 8th. All figures are well above the national median, reflecting the state's strong and growing economy.

The state's economy is diversified but is notable for its concentration of scientific research and high-technology industries. This draws high-earning professionals to the state. Denver and Boulder are major innovation hubs. Tech companies, startups, and research institutions attract significant venture capital and create numerous jobs. Aerospace is another key industry, with companies like Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace employing thousands. Colorado has also invested heavily in renewable energy, with wind and solar projects providing jobs and positioning the state as a leader in clean energy. Colorado has a larger-than-average share of employment in the oil and gas extraction, professional, scientific, and technical services, and information sectors. These industries tend to have high wages.

Tourism is another important part of the economy. Colorado's mountains draw millions of visitors each year for skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation. While many tourism jobs are seasonal and lower‑paying, the industry supports higher‑paying roles in hospitality management, marketing, and real estate. Migration trends also play a role. Colorado has been one of the fastest‑growing states, attracting young, educated workers who bring skills and demand for higher wages.

Connecticut has long been associated with wealth, and the numbers back it up. In 2024, the median income for full-time workers was $72,834, while the median household income reached $96,049, placing the Constitution State 10th in the nation. The average household income was $139,313, placing it 4th. The state's economy is anchored by finance and insurance. Hartford is known as the "Insurance Capital of the World," and is home to nearly 1,500 insurance companies, including Aetna, The Hartford, and Cigna. Insurance workers in Connecticut earn an average income of $95,232. The state also has the highest concentration of actuaries in the U.S., with 1,300 actuaries earning an average of $132,910. In addition, Stamford and Greenwich, closer to New York City, are hubs for hedge funds and investment firms. These industries attract highly educated workers and pay salaries well above the national average.

Defense manufacturing is another pillar. Connecticut has major facilities that build submarines, helicopters, and aerospace components, often under lucrative federal contracts. These jobs require specialized skills and provide stable, high wages. The presence of companies like General Dynamics Electric Boat and Sikorsky Aircraft ensures that advanced manufacturing remains a strong contributor to the state's income profile. Geography also plays a role. Many residents commute to New York City, earning Manhattan‑level salaries while living in Connecticut.

The state's wealthy suburbs, such as Fairfield County, are among the richest in the nation, with household incomes far above the U.S. median. Still, Connecticut is not without contrasts. Cities like Bridgeport and New Haven face higher poverty rates and lower wages, creating a divide between wealthy suburbs and struggling urban centers. The state is the second-most unequal state in the country.

New Jersey's income story is shaped by its geography. In 2024, the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was $74,164, while the median household income was an impressive $104,294, placing the Garden State 2nd in the nation. The average household income was $143,216, also ranking it 2nd in the country. Those household figures are among the very highest in the nation, reflecting the state's affluent suburbs and prevalence of dual‑earner families.

The state sits between two major metropolitan areas: New York City and Philadelphia. Many New Jersey residents commute daily to these cities, earning high salaries in finance, law, healthcare, and technology. These wages flow back into New Jersey households, raising the state's overall income levels. But New Jersey is not just a commuter state. It has its own robust industries. New Jersey is an attractive base for financial services firms due to population density and proximity to New York City. Pharmaceuticals are another cornerstone. Companies like Johnson & Johnson, Merck, and Novartis maintain major facilities in the state. Manufacturing, technology, and logistics are other major industries. With its ports, highways, and rail systems, New Jersey is a hub for shipping and distribution along the East Coast. The Port of Newark and Elizabeth is one of the busiest in the country, supporting jobs in transportation and trade.

Communities in northern and central New Jersey are affluent, with high property values and strong school systems that attract professionals. At the same time, cities like Newark, Camden, and Trenton face economic challenges, with higher poverty rates and lower wages. Despite these contrasts, New Jersey's overall income levels remain among the highest in the nation.

Maryland's high incomes are closely tied to its proximity to Washington, D.C. In 2024, the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was $74,982, while the median household income was $102,905, ranking the Old Line State 3rd in the nation. The average household income was $136,413, placing it 6th in the country. These figures are among the very highest in the country, reflecting the state's strong ties to federal employment and related industries.

The federal government is the single biggest driver. A fifth of Maryland residents work in federal, State, and local government. Maryland has 14 major military bases and more than 60 federal agency offices. These include the Food and Drug Administration headquarters, the National Institutes of Health, the Social Security Administration, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Although Maryland ranks only 18th in population, it is third in the number of federal employees, with an average salary of $126,468. Defense contracting is also a key factor. Contractors working with the Department of Defense provide thousands of jobs in cybersecurity, engineering, and logistics.

The state's "biotech corridor," a major life sciences hub stretching along I-270 in Montgomery and Frederick counties, is known for its concentration of biotechnology companies, federal agencies such as the NIH and FDA, and major research universities. It is home to over 140 life science companies that employ scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals, many of whom earn above‑average wages. Maryland's income levels also reflect regional contrasts. The suburbs around Washington, D.C., such as Montgomery and Howard Counties, are among the wealthiest in the nation. These areas benefit from high‑paying federal and private‑sector jobs. In contrast, Baltimore has faced economic challenges, with higher unemployment and lower wages. Still, the strength of the D.C. suburbs lifts the state's overall median income.

Washington State's economy is powered by technology, aerospace, and trade. In 2024, the median individual earnings for full‑time workers was $76,323, while the median household income was $99,389, ranking the Evergreen State 7th in the nation. The average household income was $136,413, placing it 5th in the country. All figures are well above the national median, reflecting the state's dynamic economy.

The Seattle area is home to some of the world's largest companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing. These firms employ tens of thousands of workers in high‑paying jobs, from software engineering to aircraft design. Their presence has transformed the region into one of the wealthiest in the country. The tech boom has also created ripple effects, raising incomes in supporting industries like law, finance, and real estate. Trade is another major factor. Washington's ports in Seattle and Tacoma are gateways for goods moving between the U.S. and Asia. The shipping industry supports jobs in logistics, transportation, and international business. These roles often pay well, especially in unionized sectors.

Unionized labor has historically played an important role in Washington's income levels. Workers in industries like aerospace and shipping have negotiated strong contracts, ensuring higher wages and benefits. Beyond Seattle, Washington has a diverse economy. Agriculture in eastern Washington produces apples, wine, and other crops, while Spokane and other cities support healthcare and education jobs. Still, the concentration of wealth in the Seattle area drives the state's overall median income upward.

Massachusetts tops the list when it comes to earnings. In 2024, the state posted the highest figures in the country across every major measure: median individual earnings for full‑time workers reached $79,113, median household income stood at $104,828, and average household income climbed to $144,312. These numbers reflect an economy built on knowledge‑driven industries and anchored by world‑class universities, research hospitals, and innovation hubs.

Boston, the state capital, is often called "America's College Town." The Greater Boston area alone hosts more than 44 colleges and universities, and 73 across the broader metro region. These include world‑renowned schools such as Harvard, MIT, and Boston University, as well as specialized institutions such as Berklee College of Music and the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. These campuses do more than educate; they drive research, attract investment, and generate high‑paying jobs in science, engineering, and business.

The state is also a global leader in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and advanced engineering. Healthcare also plays a central role. Boston is home to some of the nation's top hospitals and research centers, employing doctors, nurses, and scientists at wages well above the national average. Alongside these sectors, Massachusetts benefits from its "innovation corridor," a dense region and network of startups, research labs, and technology companies. The city also supports a strong financial and legal industry, with careers in banking, investment, and law adding high-paying jobs.

Like New York and California, Massachusetts offers many high-paying jobs and benefits from a highly educated, largely urban population, two factors that usually correlate with higher wages. What sets it apart is the absence of a large low‑income population. As a result, the state has lower income inequality than other high-income states, which raises the median income.