Cushy Index guide
Why High Earners Still Feel Broke in Expensive Cities
High income can feel average when rent, childcare and tax absorb the upside.
Direct answer
High earners often feel squeezed when their income rank is strong but their lifestyle rank falls after housing and core costs.
Rent eats status
A high salary can lose much of its advantage when rent absorbs 35% or more of net income.
Lifestyle rank explains the feeling
Reality Gap compares income rank with modeled lifestyle rank after local costs.
City choice matters
Moving city can sometimes improve lifestyle power more than negotiating a raise.