A 2025 survey by FlexJobs found that two-thirds (64%) of Americans define financial success as requiring at least a six-figure salary. Half (49%) said an income between $101,000 to $250,000 represents success. But that feels awfully simplistic. “It’s possible to earn $250,000 a year and still feel broke — and possible to earn $85,000 and feel in control,” notes Lon Welsh, founder at Ironton Capital. The difference lies in how people define ‘enough,’ debt levels, family responsibilities and the breathing ...