How Much Should You Earn at 30, 40, and 50? Salary Benchmarks

Introduction

Wondering if your salary is on track for your age? While there is no "right" answer—individual circumstances vary wildly—understanding benchmarks can help you assess your progress and plan your career.

United States Benchmarks

At 30

• Median: $55,000
• 75th percentile: $85,000
• 90th percentile: $120,000
• Top performers in tech/finance: $150,000-$250,000

At 40

• Median: $65,000
• 75th percentile: $110,000
• 90th percentile: $180,000
• Top performers: $250,000-$500,000+

At 50

• Median: $60,000
• 75th percentile: $105,000
• 90th percentile: $175,000
• Executives/Specialists: $300,000+

UK Benchmarks

At 30: 35,000 - 45,000 GBP median. At 40: 40,000 - 55,000 GBP median. At 50: 42,000 - 55,000 GBP median.

UK salaries peak earlier and remain flatter than US salaries, partly reflecting different career structures and stronger worker protections.

Factors That Affect Your Number

• Industry: Tech, finance, and law pay 50-200% more than average
• Location: Major cities pay 20-50% premiums
• Education: Advanced degrees add 15-30% in many fields
• Career switches: Resetting industries often means salary resets

What Matters More Than Comparisons

• Savings rate: Someone earning $80k saving 30% builds more wealth than someone earning $150k saving 5%
• Career trajectory: Are you on a path to higher earnings?
• Lifestyle fit: Does your income support the life you want?

Conclusion

Use benchmarks as data points, not verdicts. Focus on growing your skills, negotiating well, and building toward your personal financial goals. Check our income percentile calculator to see exactly where you rank.