75,000 is considered good.
Understanding the average salary in the USA is an essential step for Indian students planning to study abroad. Evaluating salary trends helps you gauge the return on investment (ROI) on US degrees, plan your finances, and make informed program and university choices for the 2025 intake.
Average Salary in USA for Graduates in 2025
As of 2025, the average starting salary for US college graduates is approximately $60,000 per year. However, your degree, field of study, university reputation, and job location have significant influence on post-study earnings. Engineering and computer science majors average $75,000–$85,000 in their first year, while humanities and social sciences tend to offer starting salaries closer to $47,000–$55,000 per year.
2025 Graduate Salary Highlights
| Parameter | Details (2025 Estimates) |
|---|---|
| Average Starting Salary (All Fields) | $60,000/year |
| Highest Starting Salary (Field) | Computer Science & Engineering ($78,000–$85,000) |
| Average MS Graduate Salary | $75,000/year |
| Average MBA Graduate Salary | $85,000–$110,000/year |
| Average US Salary per Month | $4,800–$6,000/month |
| Minimum Wage (Federal) | $7.25/hour |
| Average Tuition (Public University) | $25,000–$35,000/year |
The above figures are median estimates and can vary by discipline, location, and level of education. STEM fields and Ivy League or top-ranked graduates often surpass these averages.
Top US Universities with Best Salary Outcomes
Choosing the right university can directly impact your job prospects and salary after graduation. Here are some of the top US universities for high earning potential and employability, based on the latest sources:
| University | Avg. Starting Salary (2025 est.) | Top Fields |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | $91,000 | Engineering, Computer Science |
| Stanford University | $89,000 | AI, Business, Computer Science |
| Harvard University | $84,000 | Business, Law, Medicine |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | $88,000 | Sciences, Engineering |
| University of California, Berkeley | $81,000 | Engineering, Tech, Sciences |
| Carnegie Mellon University | $80,000 | Computer Science, Engineering |
For Indian students concerned about affordability, several affordable and cheap universities in the USA also yield strong salary outcomes, especially in STEM and business programs.
US Graduate Eligibility & Required Exams (2025)
Indian and other international students aiming for top-paying US degrees should be aware of the following requirements:
- Undergraduate: 3–4 year bachelor's with a competitive GPA or equivalent percentage
- English proficiency: IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (80+ iBT), PTE
- Masters/MBA: GRE (MS), GMAT (MBA), work experience (for MBA preferred)
- Academic transcripts and Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Proof of funds for visa
For US graduate admissions, see this guide on GRE syllabus or explore the SAT exam page for undergrad entry.
Tuition, Living Costs & Scholarships in the USA (2025)
US education fees can be high, but a range of scholarships are available, especially for international and Indian students. Budgeting accurately is key when planning your degree.
| Expense Type | Yearly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Public Univ.) | $25,000–$35,000 | May be higher for top schools |
| Tuition (Private Univ.) | $35,000–$58,000 | Fees rise for MBA/MS |
| Living Expenses | $12,000–$20,000 | Varies by city/state |
| Scholarships Offered | $5,000–$30,000 | Merit & need based |
Students should research and apply early for scholarships. Many US universities offer international-specific grants that can reduce your actual expenses.
US Visa & Post-Study Work Opportunities (2025)
International students must apply for an F-1 student visa to study in the USA. After graduation, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program offers up to 12 months of work authorization, extendable to 36 months for STEM graduates.
- F-1 Visa Application (with I-20 form)
- OPT: Work on student visa for 1–3 years post graduation
- H-1B Work Visa: For long-term work; lottery-based
- Possibility of Green Card or permanent stay later
Planning a post-study career? Review post-study work visa updates for 2025 and check intakes in the USA.
Average Salary by Job Sector and Degree in USA (2025)
US salaries vary greatly by sector, specialization, and city/state. The following table provides a snapshot for 2025:
| Field/Degree | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Science (MS) | $85,000 |
| Business/Management (MBA) | $105,000 |
| Engineering (MS) | $80,000 |
| Data Science/AI | $112,000 |
| Medicine (MD) | $140,000 (Residency) – $210,000+ |
| Healthcare | $73,000 |
| Arts/Humanities | $48,000 |
Salaries are higher in metros such as San Francisco, New York, Boston, and Seattle. For a global view, check out these highest paying jobs worldwide.
What Factors Impact Salaries for International Graduates in the USA?
- Location: Urban areas and tech hubs pay higher salaries
- University credentials: Ivy League and top 50 graduates often get premium offers
- Industry demand: Tech, business, finance, healthcare remain top sectors
- Work experience and internships (including CPT/OPT)
- Degree specialization and up-to-date skillsets
- Visa/work authorization status after graduation
For students considering medicine or MBBS, refer to Doctors' Salary in the USA and learn about becoming a doctor as an international student.
How to Improve Earning Potential After Studying in the USA?
- Choose rigorous, in-demand degrees with clear career paths
- Intern with US firms through CPT/OPT
- Network via campus placements and alumni
- Pursue additional certifications or specializations
- Research cost of living vs. expected salary
In summary, understanding the average salary in the USA for 2025 helps Indian study-abroad aspirants make empowered, ROI-driven decisions. Analyze salary trends, university rankings, exam criteria, and post-study visa prospects to ensure your US education sets you up for global career success.
FAQs on 70,000–
1. What percentage of Americans make over $75,000 a year?
About 40-45% of U.S. households have an income above $75,000 per year, according to recent U.S. Census Bureau data. This figure may vary slightly by year and data source, but it generally represents a significant portion of the population meeting or exceeding this income bracket.
2. What is considered a good salary in the United States?
A good salary in the U.S. usually ranges from $70,000 to $100,000 per year for individuals, depending on factors like location, cost of living, and occupation. In high-cost cities, a higher salary may be needed for a comfortable lifestyle, while in lower-cost areas, less may suffice.
3. Is $70,000 a good salary in the USA?
$70,000 per year is considered a good salary in most parts of the U.S., often above the national median income. It allows for a comfortable standard of living in many regions, but the value can vary depending on local cost of living and personal circumstances.
4. What salary range is considered middle class in the United States?
Middle class household income typically ranges from about $50,000 to $150,000 per year, but definitions vary by region and family size. The U.S. Census Bureau often defines middle class as roughly 67% to 200% of the median national income.
5. What is the average salary in the U.S. in 2024?
The average annual salary in the U.S. for 2024 is approximately $59,000 to $63,000, based on the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
6. What is the average salary in the U.S. per month?
The average monthly salary in the U.S. is about $4,900 to $5,250 before taxes, based on annual averages for 2024.
7. What is the average salary in the U.S. per hour?
The average hourly wage in the United States is around $29 to $32 per hour as of 2024. This can vary based on occupation and region.
8. What is the average U.S. income per person?
The average income per person (per capita income) in the U.S. is approximately $39,000, but this includes all age groups and working statuses and is lower than median household income.
9. What was the average salary in the U.S. in 1980?
The average annual salary in the U.S. in 1980 was approximately $12,500. Adjusted for inflation, this would be much higher in today's dollars.
10. What is the average salary in California?
The average annual salary in California is around $74,000 to $78,000 in 2024. Salaries are generally higher due to the increased cost of living in the state.
11. How does the average salary in the U.S. compare to the world average?
The average salary in the U.S. is significantly higher than the global average. Many developed countries have lower average annual earnings, making the U.S. one of the higher-income nations globally.
12. What is the projected average salary in the U.S. for 2025?
For 2025, the average U.S. salary is expected to rise slightly, reaching approximately $62,000 to $65,000 annually, based on economic growth and inflation forecasts from industry experts.
