Six figures used to mean you made it. But in 2025? A new Bankrate survey says 1 out of 4 Americans now need over $150K just to feel “comfortable”
In this episode, Dr. Bruce Brown, PhD in Human Resources and founder of What It Pays™, breaks down:
- What the latest financial freedom data really says
- Why the internet can’t stop arguing about $100K salaries
- A salary deep dive into pharmacists’ compensation — nationally and by top-paying states
- A quick Median Monday recap: HR Benefit Managers in Florida
Whether you're underpaid, just starting out, or planning your next move, this episode puts real data behind the salary.
Resources & Mentions
- 🌐 What It Pays platform: https://www.whatitpays.com
- 📊 Bankrate Financial Freedom Survey:
https://www.bankrate.com/investing/financial-advisors/financial-freedom-survey/#how-much-money-to-live-comfortably - 💬 Reddit Post – Why do people continue to use six figures as a benchmark?:
https://www.reddit.com/r/Salary/comments/1luz2tw/why_do_people_continue_to_use_six_figures_as/
Get Featured
📬 Want your job title and state featured in a future Median Monday or salary deep dive?
Submit it at whatitpays.com or DM us on Instagram @whatitpays.
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