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Introverts can succeed in almost any job that interests them. Contrary to what many people might think, introverts aren’t necessarily shy, but they do like working independently or in small groups. They typically are drawn to inner thoughts and ideas versus focusing on external matters. In addition, they may prefer having some quiet time to reflect and recharge instead of a job that requires nonstop meetings.

Thankfully, there are plenty of jobs that can suit this personality type and offer a challenging and fulfilling career path. Read on to learn more.

Self-employment or jobs offering flexible schedules can benefit introverts who prefer to manage their own workload.

What Makes the Ideal Job for an Introvert?

According to conventional psychology, introverts prefer to spend time with just one or two people, rather than larger groups or crowds. They’re not necessarily loners; in fact, many have highly developed social skills. However, they tend to gravitate toward situations and environments in which they feel less pressure to react or respond quickly or to engage with multiple people (such as constantly leading major team meetings).

An ideal job for an introvert may allow them to:

•   Work independently

•   Work alone or in quiet spaces that allow them to think and deploy their analytical and decision-making skills

•   Focus on one task at a time

•   Engage one-on-one (or one-on-a-few) instead of in large groups

•   Leverage their empathy and creativity

What Kind of Work Does Not Fit an Introvert?

As noted above, jobs that require a lot of collaboration with or presentations to large groups of people may not be a great fit for introverted people. Introverts are likely to be less comfortable with jobs that involve loads of group brainstorming sessions or that require them to regularly verbalize their thoughts and feelings to multiple people at once.

💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

30 Jobs for Introverts

Finding a rewarding job as an introvert means finding a career that suits your interests and caters to your inner-directed personality type, as described above. Some careers may particularly appeal to people who prefer independent work or minimal social interaction, similar to roles featured in this list of entry-level jobs with little human interaction.

Here are 30 jobs that can be a great match for introverts, with salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Web Developer or Digital Designer

•   2024 median salary: $95,380

•   Primary duties: This career is all about the design, coding, and development of websites for optimal performance and user experience. This could be a job where an introvert works solo all day, or it might involve small team collaborations. With its union of creativity and analytical insights, web development can be a great option for introverts.

2. Farmer or Rancher

•   2024 median salary: $87,980

•   Primary duties: The image of farmers and ranchers working solo in wide open spaces is iconic. While that can be true, this career may involve some interaction with others on a work team. Primary duties are overseeing the production of crops, livestock, and dairy products.

3. Psychologist

•   2024 median salary: $94,310

•   Primary duties: Psychologists can work in a variety of settings, from a medical center to private practice, but the field involves assessing and supporting cognitive and emotional wellness. This can be a very rewarding career for introverts who want to channel their empathy and social skills.

4. Plumber, Pipefitter, or Steamfitter

•   2024 median salary: $62,970

•   Primary duties: This career is all about installing and repairing pipe fixtures. There aren’t many meetings or lots of large-group interactions. Introverts can enjoy the focus and problem-solving this job demands, and skilled trades such as plumbing are often among the high-paying trade jobs in demand.

5. Postal Service Worker

•   2024 median salary: $57,870

•   Primary duties: Typically, this work involves collecting, sorting, and delivering mail to businesses and private residences or helping post office customers. It can give introverts the opportunity to work alone or have small-scale interactions.

6. Social Worker

•   2024 median salary: $61,330

•   Primary duties: Social workers help people resolve problems in their lives. Introverts who are empathetic listeners, enjoy helping others, and find lots of one-on-one interaction satisfying will likely enjoy social work.

7. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technician

•   2024 median salary: $59,810

•   Primary duties: This job requires workers to assemble and repair heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. It can suit the mechanically inclined and those who like to be immersed in hands-on problem-solving.

8. Environmental Scientist

•   2024 median salary: $80,060

•   Primary duties: In this job, a person uses their knowledge of nature to improve the environment and human health. It can involve time outdoors and in a lab, with opportunities to analyze and interpret research data.

9. Delivery Truck Driver

•   2024 median salary: $42,770

•   Primary duties: For those who like lots of solo time and the feeling of being on the open road, being a delivery truck driver can be a dream job. Duties involve the pickup, transport, and delivery of packages or goods from one location to another.

10. Writer or Author

•   2024 median salary: $72,270

•   Primary Duties: Writing is a diverse career, ranging from writing fiction to composing technical manuals for manufacturers. It can allow an introvert to explore a particular passion in print and often involves a good amount of independent work. Many writers also work remotely, which means they may experience some of the benefits of working from home.

11. Librarian

•   2024 median salary: $64,320

•   Primary duties: This can be a fulfilling career for introverts; most interactions involve collaborating with individuals seeking help with research. Plus, it taps both creativity and problem-solving skills and usually has a steady pace. Bonus: Librarians tend to work in quiet environments.

12. Physician

•   2024 median salary: $239,200

•   Primary duties: This demanding career requires a high level of training. With a salary well into six figures, this is one of the highest-paying jobs on our list. It offers the rewarding work of interacting one-on-one with patients and other members of a medical team to treat illnesses and help people achieve optimal health.

13. Roofer

•   2023 median salary: $50,970

•   Primary duties: For introverts who value independence and enjoy problem-solving, being a roofer can be a good fit. Most of the workday is spent replacing, repairing, and installing roofs on buildings and houses. Many skilled or hands-on careers like this can also fall into the category of well-paying jobs without a college degree.

14. Surveying and Mapping Technician

•   2024 median salary: $51,940

•   Primary duties: Collecting data and taking land measurements in order to create maps of the Earth’s surface is a unique job, melding creative and analytical pursuits. It’s unlikely to involve many large meetings and can give introverts the think time they love.

15. Mechanic

•   2024 median salary: $49,670

•   Primary duties: This job can be a good fit for those who like to work with their hands and problem-solve with a small team as they troubleshoot and repair automobiles and other forms of transportation.

16. Bookkeeper

•   2024 median salary: $49,210

•   Primary Duties: Love a good spreadsheet and balancing finances? Being a bookkeeper can provide satisfying work for those who enjoy working with numbers. The role also has potential as a work-at-home job for retirees.

17. Interpreter or Translator

•   2024 median salary: $59,440

•   Primary duties: Provided you have deep knowledge of one or more foreign languages, this can be a solid job if you’re an introvert, collaborating one-on-one or in small groups to convert one language into another. It may involve translating texts or translating spoken language in real time.

18. Software Quality Assurance Analyst or Tester

•   2024 median salary: $131,450

•   Primary duties: Techies, this one’s for you; it typically involves testing software to identify and debug problems or to learn how the software works. This can offer plenty of focused work time.

19. Marketing Manager

•   2024 median salary: $159,660

•   Primary duties: This potentially high-earning career focuses on managing outreach to build a business or a brand. This can tap an introvert’s creativity and analytical skills. Small team meetings and travel to meet with clients may be part of the job. With this and other high-paying roles, professionals may benefit from understanding salary negotiation tactics and strategies.

20. Photographer

•   2024 median salary: $42,520

•   Primary duties: Photographers produce, shoot, and potentially edit (hello, Photoshop!) images for personal or professional use. It’s a highly creative pursuit that may suit an introvert’s personality. Some photographers build freelance businesses or side gigs that can become part of ways to make extra income from home.

21. Proofreader

•   2024 median salary: $51,100

•   Primary duties: This can be a satisfying job, tapping an introvert’s analytical abilities and giving them space to think as they read content and correct spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. Proofreading is usually a quiet, somewhat solitary profession.

22. Landscaper

•   2024 median salary: $38,740

•   Primary duties: There’s not too much large-group interaction if you’re a landscaper. Workdays are spent maintaining outdoor grounds by mowing, trimming, planting, watering, fertilizing, raking, and other methods.

23. Physician Assistant (PA)

•   2024 median salary: $133,260

•   Primary duties: Assisting both physicians and patients can put an introvert’s empathy and technical know-how to good use. It does require specialized training: A PA is similar to a nurse practitioner — one step below a doctor and a step above a nurse. With salaries well into six figures, professionals in roles like this may also want to understand how earnings change over time using a salary inflation calculator.

24. Animal Trainer

•   2024 median salary: $33,860

•   Primary duties: Dog, horse, and other animal lovers may find this to be an ideal career, with time spent teaching animals obedience, staying calm, and assisting people.

25. Medical Transcriptionist

•   2024 median salary: $37,550

•   Primary duties: Medical transcriptionists, as the name indicates, transcribe voice recordings from physicians and nurses and convert them into written reports. This can provide a career with plenty of quiet time for detail-oriented introverts.

26. Floral Designer

•   2024 median salary: $36,120

•   Primary duties: A floral designer can spend their days arranging decorative displays using live, dried, or silk flowers, which can be a creative endeavor without too many big meetings.

27. Data Scientist

•   2024 median salary: $112,590

•   Primary duties: Data scientists deploy analytical tools and techniques to pull valuable insights from data. This is listed as one of the fastest-growing jobs in today’s digital economy.

Recommended: How to Make a Personal Budget

28. Teacher

•   2024 median salary: $64,580

•   Primary duties: Teachers and instructors are responsible for helping students of different ages learn various topics and skills. The job may tap an introvert’s empathy, and it may involve small meetings with students or their parents. Bonus: Teaching can be one of those jobs that pays off student loans through the Public Student Loan Forgiveness program.

29. Hand Sewer

•   2024 median salary: $36,650

•   Primary duties: Technically speaking, this job is about sewing and finishing items with a needle and thread. It can suit craft-oriented, creative, and independent workers who like the mental space it provides.

30. Accountant

•   2024 median salary: $81,680

•   Primary duties: An accountant prepares or reviews financial records, tapping their analytical skills. This career can incorporate interactions with individual clients or businesses, which may suit introverts well.

The Takeaway

There are many challenging and satisfying jobs that can suit introverts, from writer to data scientist to physician. In fact, many high-paying and rewarding jobs are well-suited to the personality traits of introverted people.

Introvert or not, everyone can benefit from better budget planning and tools that give you back control of your finances.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What are good jobs for introverts?

There are many jobs that suit introverts well and leverage their empathy, creativity, and analytical skills. These can include a research librarian, a physician, or a landscaper, among others.

Is self-employment good for introverts with anxiety?

Self-employment can be a good fit for introverts who experience anxiety working with large teams or with multiple people. However, self-employment can also create stress if it requires you to search for clients or manage a large workload on your own.

What is a good job for someone with introverted qualities?

Any job that allows you to work independently and in a quiet environment at least some of the time is generally better if you’re an introvert. A floral designer and a proofreader are good examples of this.

What types of work environments do introverts typically prefer?

Introverts often do not desire large-group interaction and prefer focused work, small teams, and one-on-one communication to be productive. They generally tend to avoid the overstimulation of constant meetings or crowded workplaces.

Can introverts succeed in high-paying careers?

Yes. Many high-paying careers can suit introverted personality traits. Roles such as physician, software developer, and data scientist often involve analytical thinking, specialized expertise, and focused work that may appeal to introverts while offering strong salary potential.

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Photo credit: iStock/Wiphop Sathawirawong

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Claiming unclaimed money from a deceased relative can be fairly straightforward — or more complicated — depending on state inheritance laws and the amount of supporting evidence to back the claim.

When a person dies without a will or other legally binding document outlining the distribution of their financial assets, that money may become “unclaimed” after a designated period of time. Unclaimed money is often turned over to the state in which that person lived. However, relatives can claim that money through the appropriate channels.

Recommended: What’s a Good Monthly Retirement Income for a Couple in 2025

What Happens to Unclaimed Money From Deceased Relatives?

When no direct heir is identified, unclaimed money and assets from a deceased relative go to the state government. How soon the money goes to the state after the person dies will vary according to that state’s inheritance laws.

Once unclaimed money ends up in the hands of the government, the state authority will try to identify any relatives who are entitled to claim the money. Typically, a description of the assets and the name of the deceased are posted to one or several public and searchable websites. Some examples of these websites are:

•   Unclaimed.org

•   MissingMoney.com

•   TreasuryDirect.gov

•   FDIC.gov and NCUA.gov

•   PBGC.gov

•   UnclaimedRetirementBenefits.com

•   ACLI.com

Can You Claim Unclaimed Money From a Deceased Relative?

If you believe you are entitled to an unclaimed financial asset of a deceased relative, you can file a claim with the state government or the business that is holding it. If you are specifically named as a beneficiary in the deceased relative’s will, the claim process can be relatively smooth. If not, you may still be able to claim that money, but it will require supporting documentation or potentially a decision from a presiding probate court judge to ultimately verify the claim.

Recommended: How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?

What Types of Financial Assets Can Be Claimed From Deceased Relatives?

Unclaimed money doesn’t necessarily have to be in the form of cash; it can also include other assets of value, such as:

•   Real estate

•   Forgotten bank accounts

•   Bonds

•   Stocks

•   Certificates of deposit

•   Annuities

•   Royalties

•   401(k)s and other retirement plans

•   Vehicles and other physical assets

Recommended: Unclaimed Money From Scholarships and Grants

What to Expect From the Unclaimed Money Process

If you’re planning to claim unclaimed money, the process will vary depending on the state you’re filing in and the asset in question. In some cases, you can file a claim online, provide proof of identity and any documented proof of ownership, and wait for your claim to be processed. Once the claim is approved, you receive the money. A budget planner can help you make the most of any unclaimed money you receive and also provide valuable financial insights.

In situations where the deceased did not have a will or an executor for the will, a probate court will typically appoint someone to oversee any ownership claims and asset transfers. If this is the case, you may have to wait longer or provide more documented proof in court before your claim is approved.

Once your claim is approved and you receive the money owed to you, you may be required to pay inheritance tax. Again, this depends on which state the deceased lived in. However, spouses are exempt from paying inheritance tax in every state. It’s a good idea to consult with a financial advisor to guide you through the process.

Recommended: What Is Generational Wealth, and How Do You Build It?

The Takeaway

Claiming unclaimed money from a deceased relative is possible. However, the complexity of the process will ultimately depend on the circumstances and the state in which the deceased lived. If you believe you’re entitled to claim unclaimed money from a deceased relative, leveraging an estate planning attorney or a financial advisor can help demystify the process and help you with your claim. Bottom line: It’s never too early to start thinking about your own estate planning needs and long-term financial goals.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

How do you know if a deceased loved one has left you money?

If a deceased relative has named you as a beneficiary in their will or another legally binding contract, the executor of that document or a probate court will likely reach out to inform you of any unclaimed money you are entitled to. If not, you can still check to see if you are entitled to money by searching a public unclaimed-money database online or by reaching out to the deceased relative’s financial advisor or estate planner.

How do I find assets of a deceased person?

To find the assets of a deceased relative, try looking through their personal property or reaching out to relatives and other friends with knowledge of their financial affairs. You can also inquire with the local probate court or state government agencies.

What happens when you inherit money?

Depending on where you inherit money, you may be required to pay inheritance tax. Once you pay this, you can do as you please with the money.

Who can claim unclaimed money from deceased relatives?

Usually, estate executors and legal heirs can claim unclaimed money from deceased relatives. In cases where the deceased did not appoint an executor, a probate court will appoint someone to oversee the process.

What happens to an unclaimed inheritance?

If an inheritance is unclaimed, the money or assets go to the state, which will try to find any relatives entitled to make a claim. Each state has a process by which unclaimed property can be identified and reclaimed; these returned assets are worth billions of dollars each year.

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Photo credit: iStock/mdphoto16

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Having children brings many joys. But for women, it can also have a financial dark side. Becoming a mother often results in lost pay and opportunities for career advancement, a phenomenon known as the motherhood penalty. In fact, according to the Census Bureau Current Population Survey, full-time working mothers with children under 18 earned 35% less than their male counterparts.

Many factors contribute to the motherhood penalty, and not every woman experiences it in the same way. Understanding the motherhood penalty can help women and their families sidestep this financial setback.

How Does the Motherhood Penalty Work?

If you want to avoid the motherhood penalty and keep your budget on track, it pays to know your enemy. According to a 2025 article published in the Review of Economics of the Household journal, the decrease in women’s earnings after they give birth is driven both by a reduction in employment and by lower earnings for those who remain employed. Let’s look at each of these factors.

Women today have achieved historic levels of education and are working at senior levels in the corporate world, but they are still more likely than men to cut back on their working hours or stop working altogether after their baby is born. Some women may choose jobs that allow for more flexibility in hours, even if those roles pay less.

Discrimination is a more insidious factor: Women make up nearly half of all U.S. workers and do the bulk of consumer spending, yet some managers see men as breadwinners who prioritize work and women as caregivers who are less committed to their jobs. This leads to women facing discrimination in hiring, salary, and leadership opportunities.

When two women are similarly qualified for a job, the one without children tends to earn more than the one who has kids. Comparatively, fathers working full-time earn more, on average, than men who don’t have children.

Recommended: The Highest-Paying Jobs in the US

Why the Motherhood Penalty Matters

Households in which both spouses work have been common for decades. According to 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in about half of married-couple families, both spouses were employed. Families with two healthy incomes are most likely to be able to afford a home and cover other large expenses, including raising children, which is now estimated to be around $322,427.

But the motherhood penalty takes an especially hard toll on families in which women are the head of the household. According to the U.S Census Bureau, in 2022, 22% of U.S. children were growing up in a household led by a single mother, with many of these women relying on a single source of income. The motherhood penalty may contribute to the fact that nearly 30% of single mothers live below the federal poverty level.

Factors Contributing to the Motherhood Penalty

As noted above, the unspoken belief that women belong at home to care for their children or that they are not vital contributors to their family finances continues to be a driver of the motherhood penalty. This is despite the fact that households with two parents working outside the home are now the norm in the U.S.

But there is another troubling factor. Women may leave their jobs because childcare costs more than they earn. The monthly cost of caring for an infant ranges from $572 in Mississippi to $2,363 in Washington, D.C. And even when mothers continue working, they may scale back their hours or take more flexible but lower-paid positions.

The motherhood penalty is unfair, and an additional factor adds to the inequity: In households with two working parents, where each parent earns roughly the same amount, women still spend more time on caregiving responsibilities than men do — 12.2 hours per week on average, compared with 9 hours for men, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center report. Women also spend 5.1 hours doing housework, while men spend only 2.2 hours. Women’s work may be less valued, but as the old saying goes, it’s never done.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Salary vs Hourly Pay

Tips to Avoid the Motherhood Penalty

So, what can women do to safeguard their finances from the motherhood penalty?

Stand up for fair earnings. Exercise your right to be fairly compensated with every step you take in the working world. Applying for a job? Do your research to learn what a good entry-level salary is. Offered a position? Learn how to ask for a signing bonus. Unemployment is relatively low, and employers in industries from retail to engineering may pay you to come on board.

Change jobs. Switching jobs can be stressful, and time off is often allotted based on seniority, but changing jobs is one way to bump up your salary. But before you do so, make sure you understand what a competitive pay rate is for the role you’re applying for. A growing number of states, including California, Colorado, and New York, have passed pay transparency laws that require employers to post salary ranges when they advertise job openings.

Don’t share your status. It’s unlikely that your potential employer will ask you during a job interview whether you have caregiving responsibilities, as doing so may violate federal and state laws. But many women casually disclose that they have kids during the interview process without thinking about the consequences. Avoid talking about your personal life when interviewing for a job, and be aware that many employers examine applicants’ social media feeds during their screening process.

Advocate for fair pay and families. To help promote equitable pay that can sustain families, you can support raising the minimum wage. Speaking out in favor of government support for affordable childcare and for mandatory paid parental/caregiver leave can also help ensure that women who want to stay in the workforce after having a child can afford to do so.

The Takeaway

Even though women are working outside the home in historic numbers, the motherhood penalty still exacts a heavy price for many women and their families. Acknowledging that women are financially penalized for becoming parents is the first step in fighting back against the stereotyping and discrimination that is often at the root of this problem.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

What is meant by the motherhood penalty?

The motherhood penalty refers to the fact that women’s earnings often suffer after they have children. The same effect does not apply to men, who typically earn more after becoming fathers.

What are the causes of the motherhood penalty?

A significant factor is that women often scale back on work or stop working altogether after having a child. However, they can also be discriminated against due to the stereotype that they are caregivers rather than breadwinners.

How does the motherhood penalty affect a woman’s career?

Mothers face lower pay, fewer promotion opportunities, and hiring discrimination compared to childless women. The motherhood penalty results in lower earnings, and because future earnings are often based on current salary, the reduced income often persists as a woman moves up the corporate ladder.

Which women are most affected by the motherhood penalty?

Discrimination due to becoming a mother exacerbates the difficulties experienced by women of color, low-income moms, and single parents. The motherhood penalty creates additional obstacles that make it harder for these groups to achieve economic stability and career success.

How can I avoid the motherhood penalty?

A good place to start is to know your worth. Do your research on salary before taking a job, and reevaluate your salary at least every year by looking at comparable positions.

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Photo credit: iStock/Pekic

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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The number of people living paycheck to paycheck is rising, and not just among low-income workers. One-third of American families with an annual income of $100,000 or more say they are struggling to pay their bills and have no money left over for savings. Reasons for this include high housing costs, lack of financial literacy, and lifestyle creep.

So how do high earners end up living paycheck to paycheck, and what can they do to break the cycle?

What Does Living Paycheck to Paycheck Mean?

Most people expect to earn a “living wage.” The term refers to an income sufficient to afford life’s necessities, including housing, food, healthcare, and child care. That level of income does not typically allow you to save for an emergency, retirement, or other goals.

When a person lives paycheck to paycheck, they can barely pay basic bills and have nothing left over to save for a rainy day. In the event of a pricey emergency — like a big medical bill or major car repairs — low-income families are financially wiped out.

High earners have more wiggle room, as they are able to downsize their home or car and find other ways to cut back on expenses.

Understanding the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Situation

When you are living paycheck to paycheck, you cannot save. You may also go into debt and struggle to pay it down.

According to data from the World Population Review, in 2025, the state with the lowest living wage for a family of four (two working adults with two children) in the U.S. was Tennessee at $18.94 per hour ($23.71 in 2026), or $78,800 per year, before taxes, while the federal minimum wage in that same state was $7.25 per hour. Even in the District of Columbia, which had the highest minimum wage at $17.50, the living wage for an individual was $20.80 an hour or $43,258 per year, while for a family of four it was $112,551 a year.

But even households bringing in $200,000 or more say they are struggling. In fact, of those earning at least $200K, 60% report feeling like they’re in survival mode, while others have delayed paying bills or held off on medical care because it was too expensive. While they have the freedom to downsize their lifestyle, many people may not realize the precariousness of their financial situation until they’re running out of money and have locked into a mortgage and car payments they cannot afford.

Why Do Some Americans Live Paycheck to Paycheck?

The reasons why Americans live paycheck to paycheck vary. For lower-income workers, you can point to a higher cost of living and wages that have not kept up with inflation. For those with higher incomes, the issue is more about a lack of financial literacy and living beyond one’s means.

Rising Cost of Living

One reason people are spending more is that monthly expenses, such as rent, mortgage payments, food, and utilities, are constantly increasing.

Low Income

Low incomes are another reason some people live paycheck to paycheck. This is particularly the case for people earning the minimum wage or who live in areas with a high cost of living.

Poor Budgeting

Another reason some people are living paycheck to paycheck is that they lack basic financial knowledge and budgeting skills. It’s easy to overspend and accumulate credit card debt, but it’s more difficult to pay it down afterward.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a free budget app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

Lifestyle Creep

Also known as lifestyle inflation, lifestyle creep occurs when discretionary expenses increase while disposable income increases. In plain English: when you get a raise, the natural thing to do is treat yourself and your family to things that enhance your lifestyle, such as a fancy haircut or a weekend at a charming B&B in the countryside.

However, whether you can afford those extras is debatable. While you may be paying your credit card bill in full each month, you may not be saving or investing that money for the future or unexpected expenses.

Factors Driving Financial Insecurity for Six-Figure Earners

Because of inflation, it is increasingly hard to buy a home, car, and other nice-to-haves. However, people may still expect to be able to afford these things once they earn a certain amount. And if they have a taste for luxury items, they may struggle to maintain that standard of living and pay their bills.

It’s common for people to buy things on credit and then find that they cannot make the payments. Soon, they find themselves mired in high-interest debt.

How to Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck

You can stop living paycheck to paycheck by living below your means rather than beyond your means. That requires earning more than you spend and saving the difference. The obvious steps are to increase your income and to live more frugally.

Once you have downsized your lifestyle, you can find relief quicker than you might think, and some changes may only be temporary. For example, you might have to work a part-time job for a short time until your debt is paid off.

Tips for Those Living Paycheck to Paycheck

Here are some changes you can make to get on the path to living below your means.

1. Create a Budget

You have to know where your money is going before you can cut back. By tracking your expenses, you can see what you’re spending and where you’re spending it. Automating your finances, such as paying bills and loan repayments, can make it much easier to stay on top of things and help you avoid late payment charges.

Once you know what you’re spending money on, you can create a budget where you subtract your non-negotiable expenses or needs, such as housing costs, utilities, food, and transportation, from your net income. Hopefully, you’ll have some money left over to allocate to savings. If not, it’s time to look at how you can make your life more affordable.

Here are a few budgeting strategies to try:

•   The line-item budgeting method

•   The 50/30/20 method

•   The envelope method

2. Cut Back on Nonessentials

Budgeting will help you find expenses that you can eliminate or reduce. Look closely at things that might seem insignificant to see if you are living beyond your means. For example, a large cold brew on your way to work every morning can add up, and eating out or spending $30 on takeout each week can add up to over $1,500 annually.

That being said, forgetting about an annual subscription or not being conscious of your spending doesn’t mean that you’re bad with money. More consequential changes might include downsizing your home, accepting a temporary roommate, or finding a part-time gig to supplement your income.

3. Pay Off Your Debt

Debt is expensive. High-interest credit card debt and buy-now-pay-later schemes can eat up your income as you struggle to pay the minimum while the interest mounts up. Consider using a personal loan to consolidate debt and reduce the interest you’re paying.

4. Save for Emergencies

If you are living paycheck to paycheck, just one unexpected expense can cause you to spiral into debt. It’s important to have enough cash on hand. Once you’ve paid off your debt, start an emergency fund so that you don’t have to rely on credit if you experience an unexpected financial emergency. If you’re wondering what percentage of your income you should save, a good rule of thumb is to have three to six months’ worth of expenses saved up.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

5. Hold Off on Big Purchases

While you are trying to reduce expenses and pay off debt, hold off on buying big-ticket items. For example, forgo an expensive vacation for a year and start saving toward next year instead. As much as you might like new furniture or a new car, try to economize for a while until you are in a better place financially.

6. Ask for a Raise

Asking for a raise is not easy, even when money is tight. However, it could be well worth it. According to Yale University, salary negotiations often lead to an increase in pay or additional benefits. You are in a particularly strong position if your skills are in demand and your employer values you.

The Takeaway

Many Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, even high earners. The reasons are linked to inflation, lifestyle expectations, and the ease with which people fall into debt. The remedy is to live below your means, and that often means making sacrifices.

If debt is a concern, temporary steps such as downsizing while you pay it off or finding additional sources of income are options. Identify where your money goes and stick to a budget to reduce unnecessary spending. Also, paying down high-interest debt and cutting back on eating out and other nonessentials can free up a significant amount of cash each month.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

Does living paycheck to paycheck mean you’re poor?

Living paycheck to paycheck does not necessarily mean that you are poor, but it does mean that you are living beyond your means. Even high earners can find themselves in the position of living paycheck to paycheck, often due to mounting debt and lifestyle creep. People who earn $200,000 or more can also find themselves running out of money and not having enough to save.

Is living paycheck to paycheck stressful?

Living paycheck to paycheck can be extremely stressful. You may constantly worry about how you will afford to pay in the event of an emergency. It’s important to have an emergency fund to avoid using a loan or high-interest credit card to pay for something unexpected.

How many Americans are living paycheck to paycheck?

According to recent data, approximately half of Americans were living paycheck to paycheck at the end of 2025. That’s around 108 million people of working age who are struggling to make ends meet.

What percentage of low-income households live paycheck to paycheck?

Based on Bank of America internal data, 29% of low-income consumers, that’s those who earn below $50K a year, live paycheck to paycheck. However, the percentage falls only slowly as income increases.

Can high earners live paycheck to paycheck?

Yes. Many people earning $100K and over live paycheck to paycheck. Inflation, lifestyle expectations, and poor budgeting are some of the reasons high earners can’t always make ends meet.

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Photo credit: iStock/Jacob Wackerhausen

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Earning a salary of $85,000 can provide a good living for a single person — even someone who has dependents. Of course, how far the money can go depends on where you live, your lifestyle, spending habits, and any financial obligations you may have.

Here’s a closer look at where you fall into the big picture if your annual salary is $85,000.

Is $85K a Good Salary?

If you’re making $85,000 a year before taxes, you’re earning nearly $20,000 more than the average annual U.S. salary of $69,846.57, according to 2024 figures from the U.S. Social Security Administration.

For new graduates, earning $85K annually is a high-paying entry-level salary and a great jumping-off point for earning even more in the not-so-distant future, if that’s your goal.

Median Household Income in the US by State

The following chart shows the median household income per state. According to figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in the U.S. in 2024 was $81,604. As you’ll see below, in many states, a salary of $85,000 puts you in a position where you’re earning more than the typical household.

State	Median Household Income
Alabama	$66,659
Alaska	$95,665
Arizona	$81,486
Arkansas	$62,106
California	$100,149
Colorado	$97,113
Connecticut	$96,049
Delaware	$87,534
Florida	$77,735
Georgia	$79,991
Hawaii	$100,745
Idaho	$81,166
Illinois	$83,211
Indiana	$71,959
Iowa	$75,501
Kansas	$75,514
Kentucky	$64,526
Louisiana	$60,986
Maine	$76,442
Maryland	$102,905
Massachusetts	$104,828
Michigan	$72,389
Minnesota	$87,117
Mississippi	$59,127
Missouri	$71,589
Montana	$75,340
Nebraska	$76,376
Nevada	$81,134
New Hampshire	$99,782
New Jersey	$104,294
New Mexico	$67,816
New York	$85,820
North Carolina	$73,958
North Dakota	$77,871
Ohio	$72,212
Oklahoma	$66,148
Oregon	$85,220
Pennsylvania	$77,545
Rhode Island	$83,504
South Carolina	$73,350
South Dakota	$76,881
Tennessee	$71,997
Texas	$79,271
Utah	$96,658
Vermont	$82,730
Virginia	$92,090
Washington	$99,389
West Virginia	$60,798
Wisconsin	$77,488
Wyoming	$75,532

Average Cost of Living in the US by State

Your cost of living refers to the amount of money needed in order to afford necessities in a specific location and during a certain time period. The expenses factoring into your cost of living include food, housing, utilities, transportation, childcare, and health care.

Here’s a look at the average cost of living in each state, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis:

State	Average Cost of Living
Alabama	$47,096
Alaska	$66,356
Arizona	$56,211
Arkansas	$46,259
California	$67,565
Colorado	$66,448
Connecticut	$66,645
Delaware	$60,131
Florida	$62,618
Georgia	$52,806
Hawaii	$60,711
Idaho	$48,098
Illinois	$60,612
Indiana	$51,821
Iowa	$49,473
Kansas	$51,082
Kentucky	$48,901
Louisiana	$50,454
Maine	$63,046
Maryland	$58,310
Massachusetts	$71,946
Michigan	$54,197
Minnesota	$58,433
Mississippi	$43,947
Missouri	$54,405
Montana	$58,499
Nebraska	$54,512
Nevada	$56,103
New Hampshire	$68,900
New Jersey	$65,873
New Mexico	$48,119
New York	$66,426
North Carolina	$53,334
North Dakota	$58,090
Ohio	$52,708
Oklahoma	$46,319
Oregon	$58,150
Pennsylvania	$59,260
Rhode Island	$58,041
South Carolina	$51,423
South Dakota	$54,100
Tennessee	$51,507
Texas	$54,060
Utah	$52,677
Vermont	$62,629
Virginia	$58,224
Washington	$62,837
West Virginia	$50,286
Wisconsin	$54,705
Wyoming	$55,543

How to Live on $85,000 a Year

To figure out how to best live on $85,000 a year, it helps to know how this salary breaks down on a monthly and weekly basis.

Based on a 40-hour work week with two weeks of paid vacation a year, an annual income of $85,000 works out to be about $7,083.33 per month, $3,269.34 biweekly, and $1,634.62 a week. The hourly rate turns out to be $40.87.

Keep in mind that these figures are your gross income. After taxes, your pay may end up being somewhere between $4,958 to $6,020 per month. You may find that this easily takes care of your living expenses, chips away at some debts, and enables you to even sock some money away for the future.

Need help keeping on top of where your money is being spent with every paycheck? Tools like an online money tracker can help.

Recommended: How to Calculate Your Net Worth and Wealth: The Ultimate Guide

How to Budget for an $85K Salary

There are many different budgeting methods available, but a popular one is the 50/30/20 budget. This approach allows you to allocate your money into three categories: your needs, wants, and savings.

Essentially, to follow the “rules” of the 50/30/20 budget, you’ll portion:

•  50% of your salary to necessities, including rent/mortgage payments, groceries, transportation, and medical insurance

•  30% toward your nonessentials or wants, such as travel, entertainment, leisure, and dining out

•  20% toward debt repayment and savings, including retirement accounts, vacation funds, college tuition, or buying a home

A budgeting planner app can help you get started.

Maximizing an $85K Salary

There are ways to build upon an $85,000 salary besides budgeting, saving, and getting rid of debt. Strategies include taking advantage of certain employer offerings, paying bills on time, and exploring different investment opportunities.

Does your company have a 401(k) plan? If so, consider enrolling, and your future self will thank you later. Your employer may even offer matching contributions, often up to a certain percentage.

You can also make sure you avoid any missed payments or late fees by setting up autopay for recurring bills. Even if $85K can go further where you live, that doesn’t mean you can’t curb extraneous spending, such as eating at home more often rather than ordering take-out or getting rid of streaming services you never use.

Quality of Life With an $85K Salary

Whether you’re mulling a job offer or considering a career change, you may be wondering, “Is $85K a year a good salary?” In fact, that amount of money can provide a nice quality of life for many people. However, it’s worth noting that everyone has their own version of what a good quality of life means. So the amount one person needs to live comfortably — and where — differs from person to person.

Is $85,000 a Year Considered Rich?

Similar to the question of what constitutes a good quality of life, what someone considers “rich” depends on their personal definition. To some people, $85,000 may feel rich, especially if they’ve never earned close to this salary before.

The truth is, there’s no official financial designation of what it means to be rich. However, many people feel they need to earn at least a six-figure salary to start feeling rich. According to a 2025 Bankrate survey, Americans don’t feel rich with a salary of $85,000. In fact, a quarter of respondents said they would need to make $150,000 or more per year to feel financially comfortable, while 55% reported that they would need to earn $200,000 or more per year to consider themselves rich.

Is $85K a Year Considered Middle Class?

According to the Pew Research Center, 51% of Americans fall into the middle class or middle-income category. Pew Research defines middle-class households as those with an income that’s two-thirds to double that of the U.S. median household income. As the latest median income according to the U.S. Census Bureau was $81,604, a salary of $85,000 falls easily within the middle class.

Example Jobs That Make About $85,000 a Year Salary

Salaries largely depend on the field or industry you work in, what companies are willing to pay, and your particular skill set. Here are some jobs that pay about $85,000 or more a year, based on information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

•  Chemist and Materials Scientist: $86,620

•  Urban and regional planner: $83,720

•  Occupational health and safety specialist: $83,910

•  Microbiologist: $87,330

•  Postsecondary teacher: $83,980

Recommended: 25 Highest Paying Jobs in the U.S.

The Takeaway

Is $85K a year a good salary? In 2026, it’s considered middle class and can provide a comfortable living for a single person in many states and areas of the country. With that level of pay, someone can afford their basic needs, indulge in some of their wants, and still have money left over to pay off debts or set aside savings. Earning $85K can be a great starting salary for a young person or even someone starting over in a new field, with the opportunity to increase earnings in the future.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

Can you live comfortably making $85K a year?

It depends on where you live, your current expenses, and your spending habits. But in general, as a single person, you should be able to live rather comfortably on $85K a year, meeting your basic needs and still having money left over.

What can you afford with an $85K salary?

Making $85,000 a year can typically cover housing, a car payment, utilities, and food costs without being stretched too thin. Of course, this all relies on living within your means. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the U.S. is $1,582 per month, and monthly car payments average from $532 for a used car to $748 for a new car. You may feel stretched if you decide to buy a home, since the average mortgage payment on a fixed 30-year mortgage with a 20% down payment is $2,259.

How much is $85K a year hourly?

The hourly rate for $85,000 a year is around $40.86.

How much is $85K a year monthly?

A salary of $85,000 works out to be around $7,083.33 per month before taxes.

How much is $85K a year daily?

If you make $85K, you earn a gross amount of approximately $327 a day.

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Photo credit: iStock/FreshSplash

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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