Even the ideal salary can’t afford the American dream.

Most Americans are content to rake in an annual earning of $74,000 on average, according to a new survey by Brooklyn-based market researcher Talker Research, as reported by Realtor.com .

When it comes to homeownership in 2025, however, such a paycheck won’t get you very far. 5

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An analysis of the survey by the outlet revealed a glaring mismatch between America’s reasonable salary expectations and the country’s less-than-accommodating housing market. As it turns out, the “perfect salary” can only afford a median-priced home in a mere two states.

Assuming the buyer is working with a 20% down payment and a 6.56% mortgage rate, Realtor.com found that $74,000 will get you as far as Louisiana and West Virginia.

The two states

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