Raleigh, NC: $55,537

Income needed: $55,537

50 percent for necessities: $27,769

30 percent for discretionary spending: $16,661

20 percent for savings: $11,107

Based on Raleigh's median income of $54,581, locals actually earn incomes on par with what is needed to live comfortably. They are short just $80 each month ($956 a year).