If current financial trends continue, the American middle class may find certain once-affordable items slipping out of reach. In the next five years, the costs of housing, healthcare, and transportation could surpass the average American household’s budget. Though this trend is troubling, there are things that can help, like solid financial planning and changes to…
Many Americans that used to work in an office are now settling down in places they previously couldn’t consider, including small and midsize towns across the United States. These spots, dubbed “zoom towns,” have recently seen a big increase their population. Financial technology company SmartAsset gathered data on the best zoom towns in the United…
Gas prices are a foe for many American consumers. Though they occasionally drop to manageable levels, they seem to be heading in the wrong (higher) direction most of the time. The strife Americans feel every time they pull up to the pump is nothing new. Gas prices have had peaks and valleys since World War…
Being responsible with money is more crucial than ever in times of turbulent economic change. But what exactly does it mean to be financially literate? Looking at factors like savings account balances, credit scores, and financial education can give some perspective on personal financial literacy, but they don’t necessarily show the whole picture. Certain things…
There are many things to consider when deciding upon a career. What one is passionate about, commute times, remote positions, corporate or family-owned businesses, and benefits are among them. However, a well-paying salary is often at the top of the list. It’s a widely held belief that surgeons, lawyers, athletes, realtors, and those in finance,…
Retirement planning can be daunting for Americans. The big question for many, regardless of age, is how much money one needs to save before leaving the workforce. It’s difficult to know where to begin with retirement planning and a meeting with a financial consultant is always a good start. However, recent data from U.S. News…
Looking to move to a state that goes easier on your wallet? In a recent study, Forbes discovered the ten cheapest states to live in. Moving to any of these states could put some hard-earned money back in your pocket. Methodology To determine America’s cheapest states to live in, Forbes researchers created a cost-of-living index….
The tip jar, or worse, the tip screen, has become a ubiquitous part of American life. You’ll find one at the dog groomers, the dry cleaners, and your local coffee shop. In restaurants, you may find a service charge listed at the bottom of your check and still be provided with a line to add…
With the gradual disappearance of traditional pensions, annuities have become an appealing option for retirees seeking financial security. However, it’s not all smooth sailing. As a survey by Greenwalk Research discovered, there’s a disparity between Americans wanting the perks of an annuity and biting the bullet to invest in one. Setting the Stage Greenwald Research…
Are you frustrated with the high housing prices in the area where you’re looking to buy? You’re not alone. Fortunately, there are still cities in the United States where housing remains relatively affordable. So, if you’re open to expanding your house search, these are some of the most economical — and nice — places to…
