Income in the United States: How a Degree Can Affect You

Income in the United States is measured by the United States Department of Commerce either by household or individual. The differences between household and personal income is considerable since 42% of households, the majority of those in the top two quintiles with incomes exceeding $57,658, now have two income earners. This difference becomes very apparent when comparing the percentage of households with six figure incomes to that of individuals. In 2006, 17.3% of households had incomes exceeding $100,000, compared to slightly less than 6% of individuals. Overall the median household income was $46,326 in 2006 while the median personal income (including only those above the age of 25) was $32,140.

Income inequality has increased considerably, with the mean after-tax income of the top percentile increasing 167%, versus 69% for the top quintile overall, 29% for the fourth quintile, 21% for the middle quintile, 17% for the second quintile and 6% for the bottom quintile. While wages for women have increased greatly, median earnings of male wage earners have remained stagnant since the late 1970s. Household income, however, has risen due the increasing number of household with more than one income earners and women's increased presence in the labor force.

• No diploma: $19,169
• High school diploma: $28,645
• Bachelor's degree: $51,554
• Advanced degree (master's degree and above): $78,093

These figures were taken from the U.S. Census Bureau Current Population Survey in 2006 (the same figures used above for household income) and are subject to fluctuation based on the current economy.