was the your household income is higher than most other americans, which is correct. but you're right in that there are ton of other variables that determine whether you've 'made it' or even being somewhat comfortable.

a large factor in this is also debt. not only studuent loans, but credit cards, cars, personal loans, and houses.

I started behind once I was done with college. had mad credit cards and car note. was not making enough. so as the income went up, the life started changing, marriage, kids, house. still played catch up on those old college bills.

our income sounds great on paper too and we're ok for now, but shit aint all gravy. if my wife stops working, shit will get tight quickly.