U.S. 50 State Salary Map: Which Tier Are You In?

How big is the wage gap? For those aged 45-64, people in Maryland earn over $120,000, while those in Mississippi only make $60,000. There are generational differences as well: Gen Z has the lowest average, Gen X is favored, but in Mississippi, all generations are pulled down—here, the average income for those aged 25-44 is only $58,600.

Top three high-paying states:
- Maryland middle-aged peak (ages 45-64): $119,307
- New Jersey (ages 45-64): $117,412
- Connecticut (45-64 years old): $107,844

The worst state for low salaries is West Virginia, with a median income of only $27,380 for young people (ages 15-24) — which is less than many interns in big cities.

Key findings: Coastal developed states (California, Maryland, New Jersey) stabilize the inland southern regions. The older the age, the more pronounced the income disparity—indicating significant differences in regional economic structures and industries.

How is the water level in your state?