If you’re earning $150K in 2025, you’re likely wondering where you stand among six-figure earners in the U.S. This article breaks down income percentiles, state-by-state data, and strategies to maximize your financial edge—perfect for $100K-$200K earners. Let’s dive into the insights from SixFigureEdge.
Understanding Your $150K Ranking
In 2025, an individual income of $150K places you in the top 8-12% of U.S. earners, near the 87th-90th percentile, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and adjusted for inflation (around 2-3% annually). For full-time workers, this means you out-earn about 87-90% of individuals nationwide, positioning you as a high earner within the six-figure range. Here’s why this matters:
- National Context: The median individual income in 2025 is approximately $52,000, with the top 25% starting around $95,000. Your $150K is well above, signaling elite earning potential.
- Comparison: Compared to $100K (top 20%) or $200K (top 5%), $150K sits in a sweet spot—moderately high, aspirational, and common for professionals in tech, finance, or management.
2025 Individual Income Percentiles (U.S.)
To contextualize, here’s where $150K fits among individual earners:
| Percentile | Income (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 25th Percentile | ~$30,000 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | ~$52,000 |
| 75th Percentile | ~$102,000 |
| 90th Percentile | ~$160,000-$170,000 |
| 99th Percentile | ~$430,000 |
These figures reflect full-time, year-round workers and highlight $150K’s position in the top tier.
At SixFigureEdge, we provide data-driven insights to help six-figure earners like you maximize your rank.
State-by-State Breakdown for $150K
Income percentiles vary by state due to cost-of-living differences. Here’s where $150K ranks in 2025:
- High-cost states (e.g., California, New York): $150K is strong but not elite, particularly in major cities (e.g., San Francisco’s median household income is ~$140K).
- Moderate-cost states (e.g., Texas, Florida): $150K offers stronger purchasing power, placing you in the top 7-9%.
- Low-cost states (e.g., Mississippi, Arkansas): $150K is elite, ranking in the top 5-7%, with lower living costs amplifying your financial edge.
Pro Tip: Check local data on SixFigureEdge to assess your state’s percentile—consider regional investment opportunities with tools like Betterment, available at Betterment for tailored portfolios.
What $150K Means for Your Financial Strategy
Earning $150K in 2025 gives you a six-figure edge, but it comes with responsibilities. Here’s how to maximize it:
1. Investment Opportunities
With $150K, you’re prime for diversified investments. Consider:
- Beyond traditional stocks and bonds, six-figure earners should explore HSAs (if eligible), taxable brokerage accounts for flexibility, and alternative investments like REITs or index funds targeting growth sectors.
- Retirement: Max out 401(k) and IRA limits (e.g., $23,000 and $7,000 in 2025)—secure your future.
- Real Estate: Explore high-yield markets (e.g., Texas, Florida) for passive income.
- Tools: Explore low-fee options with resources like Betterment, found at Betterment.
2. Tax Planning
At $150K, your income spans multiple federal tax brackets, with most of your earnings taxed at 24%, not 32%. Only the portion exceeding $191,950 reaches the 32% bracket. Minimize taxes with:
- Deductions: Itemize home office, charity—save $5,000+ annually.
- Credits: Leverage energy or education credits for six-figure earners.
- Tools: Use resources like TurboTax to simplify filings—learn more at TurboTax.
3. Lifestyle Balance
$150K supports a six-figure lifestyle—housing, travel, savings. Budget wisely:
- Housing: 30% of income ($45K/year)—urban areas cost more, adjust per state.
- Savings: 20% ($30K/year)—build emergency funds, invest surplus.
- Luxuries: 10% ($15K/year)—manage with budgeting tools like YNAB, available at YNAB.
How SixFigureEdge Keeps You Ahead
At SixFigureEdge, we dig into the data to give six-figure earners like you a financial edge. Whether you’re at $100K, $150K, or $200K, our insights ensure you maximize your rank and earnings—check back for more strategies to edge your finances.
Discover trusted resources to enhance your financial strategy—explore options like Betterment, TurboTax, and YNAB, and edge your $150K!
