Are you wondering how much money you would need to make in 2026 just to feel financially comfortable?
The financial advice website GoBankingRates checked with some financial experts for their opinion on what the minimum salary is to feel a sense of money security in the next year.
Of course, there are many variables, such as where you live, how big your family is and the kind of lifestyle you want.
But experts say there is a clear baseline salary that can cover essentials like rent, groceries and some recreational activities along the way.
In 2026, hitting that number means more financial freedom and fewer worries about money, but it relies also on keeping debt and expenses under control.
Jimmy Fuentes, a consultant for California Hard Money Lender, said it would take a household salary of more than $80,000 in 2026 to achieve that financial security level along with solid budgeting practices to stay ahead of inflation.
“It would also require that the average American family earns a minimum salary of $80,000 to $90,000 every year as they would just be able to have a reasonable standard of living as the inflation rate is around 3 [to 4%],” Fuentes said.
That figure can fluctuate widely based on certain financial objectives including home ownership, retirement funds and debt.
Jeffrey Hensel, a North Coast Financial broker associate, agreed on the general salary range.
“My clients will report in my practice having necessary essentials given that the inflation rate is at 8 to 10% even with a household making about $85,000 in a year,” Hensel said.
Hensel said nominal income has increased at a slower rate than three basic needs: Housing, energy and food — which compel people to use credit cards or payday loans.
Experts advise steering away from high-interest payday loans and credit card borrowing.
“I feel that the only solution is to manage the cash flows systematically and come up with strict debt repayment strategies to retain financial comfort as long as the prices go up,” Hensel said.
Fuentes advised that people need to look at related strategies towards growth.
For example, accumulating equity by investing in real estate, diversification and other similar other activities aligned towards long term wealth generation.
“When dealing with investors in my industry, I advise them to ensure that they have assets due to increase in value, so they can counter the effects of inflation,” Fuentes said.