Cost of living is always a major factor. Depending upon where you wish to live, the income you'll need for housing and living expenses will certainly vary. Take Manhattan, New York for instance. This is about as bad as it gets. It's doubtful you'll encounter many MORE expensive areas in the USA. A buddy of mine who was born and raised there swears that you need to be a millionaire to live there comfortably. I believe it and you can have it. I surely won't pay for a smog-filled environment with high crime. Then there's Seattle real estate. This area is also ideal, but without the horrible smog and crime rates of New York City.