24K is a magic number. You qualify for an enhanced silver ACA policy with very low premiums, deductibles and copays.
I do own a home and rental property, and pay property taxes annually.
I did my first year at a 24K annual income with a slight assist from after-tax savings after being employed for 30+ years. Being 55 in San Diego, and getting an electronics engineering position ain't happening right now.
Do you have a "family of 4"?
24K is the sweet spot for a family of 2.
Horseshit. A family of 4 will spend about 2/3rds of that amount on healthcare (meaning insurance + deductibles and copays) alone. Then there's real estate tax as well, utilities, food, necessities. I'd say $50K is bare minimum, and $75k could actually be quite comfortable after some belt tightening.