Median Annual Income in U.S. Jumps $20,000 in a Decade

The median annual income of Americans has climbed by nearly $20,000 over the past decade, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

As of the second quarter of 2025, the median annual earnings for all full-time workers aged 16 and older reached $62,192, up from $42,068 in 2015. This represents an increase of $20,124, or 47.8% over 10 years.

Among different age groups, workers aged 45 to 54 recorded the highest median earnings at $70,824. This was followed by those aged 35 to 44 at $70,252, and 55 to 64 at $67,392. Meanwhile, the youngest workers aged 16 to 19 earned just $33,280—barely half of the overall median.

BLS analysts attributed the earnings peak among workers in their 40s and early 50s to career stability, accumulated experience, and advancement into managerial positions. Inflation over the past decade also played a role in lifting wages.

One surprising finding is that workers aged 65 and older earned a median of $62,296, roughly $3,000 more than those aged 25 to 34 ($59,228). Experts say this reflects the presence of late-career professionals and specialists who continue to command strong wages, as well as a growing number of seniors who remain in the workforce.

Teen workers, however, saw little progress. Their median annual income rose from just $20,324 in 2015 to $33,280 in 2025, showing only modest growth compared to other age groups.

Overall, income levels steadily rise through the 20s and 30s, surge in the mid-30s to 40s, and peak in the early 50s before declining as retirement approaches.

Gender disparities also remain: men earned $2,000 to $4,000 more annually than women across all age groups, the data showed.

Labor experts say the statistics illustrate “a classic wage curve by age and experience,” with clear peaks during the mid-career years and declines leading into retirement.

BY BRIAN CHOI  [ichoi@koreadaily.com]