First of all, 55k isn't the ceiling. My dad is a union carpenter and made about $50/hr ($104k). Electricians make even more, and are paid decently throughout their 5 year apprenticeship (which is half classroom half job site).

Secondly, depending on where you live that is a lot of money. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and my parents home is only worth $250k. It's 4 bedroom, 2 car garage, finished basement, on a 1/2 acre.