7 Cities Where It’s Easiest To Rise From Low Income to Middle Class

The Pew Research Center defines the middle class as anyone who earns between two-thirds and double the median U.S. household income. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $74,580, so you’d be considered middle class if you earn $49,715 to $149,160 a year.

Everyone’s financial journey is different and, of course, deeply personal. But if you’re trying to improve your financial situation and want to build wealth, you might want to start by looking at where you currently live — and deciding whether or not it’s the best place to increase your income or net worth.

Keeping in mind that costs are generally lower beyond the city center, here are some places where it’s easiest to rise from low income to middle class, according to the experts.

Also see how much you need to go from lower middle to upper middle class in some expensive cities.

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,744
• Monthly cost of living (for one): $1,200 (without rent)
• Median household income: $72,725
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 90.3

Nashville is one U.S. city where people can rise from low income to middle class.

“Music City is a super fun and affordable place,” said Steven Kibbel, a CFP at Prop Firm App. “The dynamic industries in that place are in healthcare and business. … With so many new jobs all the time, you have a better chance of turning things around, whether it be climbing the ladder where you’re at or trying something new. … My advice: Research, use local resources and keep an open mind.”

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,974
• Monthly cost of living (for one): $1,286 (without rent)
• Median household income: $85,853
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 101.8

“Denver’s great. It has incredible mountain views. The people are great, and there are so many opportunities in tech, renewable energy — you name it,” Kibbel said. “The [cost of] living’s reasonable, too. More jobs mean it’s easier to gain more experience, take on new role changes, and boost your salary as you grow into things.”

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,248
• Monthly cost of living (for one): N/A
• Median household income: $62,994
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 94

There’s not as much data for Columbus specifically, but even in other metropolitan areas — like Cincinnati — the monthly costs are low compared to the median household income.

“Columbus has a diverse economy with strengths in finance, education, healthcare and technology,” said Dennis Shirshikov, a finance professor at The City University of New York. “The city boasts a relatively low cost of living, making it easier for residents to manage expenses and save money.”

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,577
• Monthly cost of living (for one): $1,296 (without rent)
• Median household income: $78,631
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 98.5

Like many major U.S. cities, Raleigh has become more expensive in recent years. However, those looking to rise from low-income to middle class can still find many opportunities in the area. Since housing is on the pricier side, it might be best to live outside the city center.

“Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle, which includes Durham and Chapel Hill, and is known for its strong job market” Shirshikov said.

Prominent sectors include healthcare, education and technology.

The city also has several major universities for those seeking advanced educational opportunities.

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,605
• Monthly cost of living (for one): N/A
• Median household income: $76,402
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 101.1

Rental prices are on the higher side in Boise, but smaller nearby towns offer more affordable living — this is especially good for those who work remotely and don’t have to worry about commuting into the city every day.

Aside from that, Boise could be another city worth checking out if you want to build income and wealth.

“Boise has one of the fastest-growing job markets in the country,” said Justin Godur, a finance advisor at Capital Max.

He said the city’s cost of living is still lower than many other similarly sized cities. And for those in the tech, manufacturing or agricultural industries, Boise could be a great place to advance in their careers.

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,707
• Monthly cost of living (for one): $1,113
• Median household income: $86,556
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 92.4

Austin won’t win any affordability points when it comes to rental prices, but Texas as a whole has a lower cost of living than much of the country. Depending on your industry and whether or not you decide to split costs with someone else, you could build a lucrative life in the city.

“Austin boasts a thriving tech industry with numerous entry-level job opportunities that pay well above the national average,” Godur said.

Texas also doesn’t have a state income tax.

• Typical rental price (in city center): $1,604
• Monthly cost of living (for one): $1,099 (without rent)
• Median household income: $72,357
• State’s overall cost of living index (MERIC): 102.9

Salt Lake City’s rental prices are once again on the higher side, but the overall cost of living is still fairly reasonable. And if you choose a smaller town nearby, you could save money on housing while working your way to middle class.

Be aware, though, that just because you move to a specific city doesn’t mean it’s necessarily easy to go from one “class” to another.

“It’s important to remember that these are just a few examples, and the ‘easiest’ city depends on your specific skills and career goals,” said Martin Boonzaayer of The Trusted Home Buyer. “Even in these cities, rising from low income to middle class requires hard work, dedication and possibly additional education or training.”

Always research the current trends before moving anywhere. Whether that’s housing, the general cost of living or job and educational opportunities, it’s important to be informed.