How much should you earn at your age? Average and median salaries for every age group with career stage analysis.
| Age | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|
| 16-19 | $18,200 | $15,800 |
| 20-24 | $35,800 | $31,200 |
| 25-29 | $48,500 | $42,000 |
| 30-34 | $59,200 | $52,000 |
| 35-39 | $68,500 | $58,000 |
| 40-44 | $72,800 | $62,000 |
| 45-49 | $75,200 | $64,000 |
| 50-54 | $74,500 | $63,000 |
| 55-59 | $72,000 | $60,000 |
| 60-64 | $65,000 | $55,000 |
| 65+ | $52,000 | $44,000 |
The data shows significant variation across age groups. Younger Americans are often starting from a lower base, while peak earning and accumulation years are typically between ages 45-64.
The gap between average and median values is important to note. Averages are pulled higher by wealthy outliers, so the median is a better benchmark for most people. If you are above the median for your age group, you are doing better than half of Americans.
Use our salary after tax calculator to see where you stand and create a plan to improve your financial position.
How much should you earn at your age? Average and median salaries for every age group with career stage analysis.
This data is compiled from Federal Reserve, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other government sources. Values represent estimates based on the latest available data adjusted to 2026.
Use the median (not average) to compare yourself. Averages are skewed higher by wealthy outliers. If you are above the median for your age group, you are doing better than most Americans.