Living on $46k - where the money goes

The median income for an American household is $46,242, according to the Census Bureau. Here's how five couples from different walks of life are managing now.

By Chris Zappone, CNNMoney.com staff writer

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Indianapolis

Michael and Lisa Thibault

With a family of three and fluctuations in their employment status, the couple spends about $1,700 per month for full insurance and medical visits.

The pie chart does not reflect the Thibaults' tithing to their church which they do "regardless of our income and tight budget." The Thibaults asked to keep the amount private.

The Ogles The Ogles' spending The Thibaults The Thibaults' spending Andrew and Ozgul Leone The Leones' spending The Wheats The Wheat's spending Slingland Slingland's spending