Methodology

Every statistic on this site originates from an official government dataset or a deterministic calculation applied to one. We never estimate, interpolate, or generate figures editorially. Where data is unavailable for a location or occupation, we say so rather than filling the gap.

Sources

Wage and employment estimates come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program (annual releases). Household income, rent, population, and housing values come from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-year estimates. Regional price levels come from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities. Mortgage rates and inflation context come from FRED®. Each page shows its sources, the data period, when we retrieved it, and when it was last updated.

Calculations

Derived figures — cost-of-living-adjusted salary, rent burden, affordability estimates — use published formulas documented on this page as each calculator launches. Rent burden follows the HUD convention (above 30% of gross income is cost-burdened). Tax and affordability outputs are estimates with stated assumptions, not financial advice.

Corrections

Found an error? We publish a corrections process and fix verified issues promptly. A contact page is coming with launch.