US Census Bureau data reveals that only 10% of adults earn over $150,000 annually. Understanding these realities helps you set achievable standards while maintaining financial compatibility.
The Income Reality
High Income Requirements
- • $150k+: Only 10% of adults
- • $100k+: Only 23% of adults
- • $75k+: Only 35% of adults
- • $50k+: 60% of adults
Requiring $150k+ eliminates 90% of potential partners
Better Alternative
Focus on financial behaviors instead:
- ✓ Financial responsibility
- ✓ Career ambition & growth
- ✓ Shared money values
- ✓ Budgeting skills
Opens pool to 60%+ while ensuring compatibility
Education Level Statistics
US Population by Education (Ages 25+):
- • Doctoral/Professional degree:3.5%
- • Master's degree:9.5%
- • Bachelor's degree:23.5%
- • Associate's degree:10.5%
- • Some college, no degree:20.0%
- • High school or equivalent:33.0%
Key Insight:
Requiring a Master's degree or higher limits your pool to just 13% of the population. Consider whether educational credentials predict compatibility better than intellectual curiosity, communication skills, or shared interests.
What Actually Predicts Financial Compatibility?
Research from the Journal of Financial Planning shows that financial values and behaviors are 3.2x more predictive of relationship satisfaction than absolute income levels.
1. Financial Responsibility
Does the person live within their means, avoid excessive debt, and plan for the future? This matters more than current salary.
2. Career Trajectory
Is the person ambitious and working toward goals? Income potential often matters more than current income.
3. Shared Money Values
Do you agree on saving vs. spending, financial priorities, and money management? Alignment here predicts long-term success.
Action Steps
- Test your current criteria: Use the calculator to see how income/education requirements limit your pool
- Identify the underlying need: Is it financial security? Intellectual compatibility? Ambition?
- Adjust your standards: Replace rigid income minimums with behavioral indicators of financial health
- Expand gradually: Instead of requiring $150k+, try $75k+ with growth potential - this increases your pool from 10% to 35%