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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Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Andrew and Ozgul Leone

The explosive cost of Florida housing is eating up money that would likely go to debts, especially from credit cards.

The $1,400 a month covers Andrew's 1st and 2nd mortages, as well as insurance, water, garbage, sewer, and cable costs.

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