First off, I would say no one should judge their income in relation to the “median”. I think most on this site are educated regarding the dangers associated with reliance on medians. In particular reference to income, I believe the census calculates median income by including kids as young as 15 yrs old who have income. I would imagine this skews the figures something terrible.

Regardless, the choices to shop at Whole Foods, pay off student loans at an accelerated pace, tithe, etc, are just that – choices – in my opinion. Someone who makes different choices may put an extra $1,000/month in their pockets – which would change the economic picture substantially. We all make choices and we live with the consequences of our choices.

As a young homeowner in SD 16 years ago, I suffered through the recession, pinched pennies, scraped by, took in a roomate, then bought at second property and took in two roomates just to get by. Sacrifice. A word that is paid lip service too often and not lived nearly enough. Now I’m just preaching in general and not criticizing the author of this thread in any way so please don’t take this mini-rant as such.

Finally, over lunch in SF with an old friend, he began to whine about domestic and life expenses and trying to get ahead, yada yada. This from an attorney, whose wife is a working attorney, two kids, live-in nanny, million dollar house, $300K+ household income. Talk about failing to learn to be content. On that note, some would say that being content is almost un-American – we Americans always strive for bigger and better things, higher achievement, etc. etc. It’s the culture that we live in. It’s tough to resist those dangling carrots, isn’t it?