The average barber’s salary is $52,123 a year, according to the latest data from ZipRecruiter. But barber salaries can range from about $17,500 to more than $86,000.
How much money you can make as a barber may depend on several factors, including education, certifications, experience, and where you’re located. Here’s a look at what barbers do and how they get paid.
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What Are Barbers?
A barber’s main job is to cut and style hair, usually for male clients. Barbers also may trim or shave facial hair, fit hairpieces, and provide hair-coloring services.
To become a barber, you must obtain a license in the state where you plan to work. Licensing qualifications can vary, but you’ll likely have to meet a minimum age requirement, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have graduated from a state-licensed barber program. You may also have to pass a state licensing exam.
A barbershop often doubles as a social hub where men can go to swap stories and catch up on the latest news while they enjoy a little personal care. If mingling with clients all day isn’t your thing, you may want to check out jobs with less human interaction. 💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.
How Much Do Starting Barbers Make?
An entry-level salary for a barber can range from $8.41 to $41.35 or more an hour, according to ZipRecruiter. Brand-new barbers tend to earn the highest hourly wages in New Jersey, Wyoming, and Wisconsin.
Recommended: What Trade Jobs Make the Most Money?
What Salary Can a Barber Expect to Make?
Barber jobs in the U.S. can pay anywhere from $17,500 to $86,000 or more, according to ZipRecruiter data. How much you can expect to make may depend on several factors, including how many hours you work and how many clients you serve; if you live in a region with more competitive pay; and if you work on commission, rent a chair at a shop, or own your own barbershop.
Here’s a look at the average barber’s income by state.
State
Average Salary for a Barber
Alabama
$49,572
Alaska
$53,033
Arizona
$50,968
Arkansas
$40,073
California
$46,632
Colorado
$50,860
Connecticut
$47,890
Delaware
$48,177
Florida
$40,869
Georgia
$46,181
Hawaii
$51,460
Idaho
$44,515
Illinois
$46,962
Indiana
$52,044
Iowa
$47,980
Kansas
$44,493
Kentucky
$42,214
Louisiana
$44,134
Maine
$45,672
Maryland
$46,693
Massachusetts
$53,224
Michigan
$42,137
Minnesota
$50,551
Mississippi
$47,266
Missouri
$45,239
Montana
$50,200
Nebraska
$45,804
Nevada
$50,144
New Hampshire
$54,449
New Jersey
$53,861
New Mexico
$50,829
New York
$60,841
North Carolina
$43,866
North Dakota
$52,473
Ohio
$49,290
Oklahoma
$44,358
Oregon
$52,559
Pennsylvania
$55,714
Rhode Island
$48,681
South Carolina
$44,791
South Dakota
$49,593
Tennessee
$47,059
Texas
$44,130
Utah
$46,849
Vermont
$60,007
Virginia
$47,628
Washington
$53,744
West Virginia
$43,029
Wisconsin
$52,882
Wyoming
$53,101
Source: ZipRecruiter
Recommended: Highest Paying Jobs by State
Barber Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits
A barber’s compensation is traditionally set up in one of two ways:
• Renting a chair or booth: Barbers who rent a chair at a barbershop pay the owner or franchise a fee for the space where they work, but they keep the rest of what they earn. This can give barbers more control over their work schedule and the services they choose to offer.
• Earning a commission: Barbers who work on commission are paid a percentage of what they earn (typically between 40% to 70%). Or they could receive a predetermined hourly wage or salary plus a bonus commission. New barbers may choose to work a few years on commission to gain knowledge of how the business works and build a clientele, and then switch to renting a chair.
In addition, barbers can earn tips, usually about 15% to 20% of the price of a haircut or other service provided. Online tools like a money tracker app can help you keep track of your spending and saving from month to month.
Pros and Cons of a Barber’s Salary
As with any job, there are pros and cons to working as a barber, including:
Pros
• Attending a barber school can take less time (usually a year or less) and is far less expensive than getting a college degree. Tuition is about $14,000 on average (not including books and supplies), but costs can range from about $4,000 to $25,000, depending on the program. Financial assistance may be available through federal or private student loans, grants, and scholarships.
• Job prospects for barbers are good. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for barbers is projected to grow by 7% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
• Popular barbers often can work the hours they choose while serving clients who appreciate their creativity — and reward them with their loyalty and generous tips. If you like the idea of becoming an entrepreneur, you may even decide to start your own business someday.
Cons
• It can take time to build a reputation and a reliable list of repeat customers. In the meantime, you may experience some income instability, and tips may vary from one client to the next. This could make budgeting and spending difficult at times.
• As a barber, you may not receive the same employee benefits that other careers generally offer, including health insurance, a 401(k) or similar retirement plan, paid sick leave, or vacation pay. You might have to work nights, weekends, or a fluctuating schedule that makes it hard to plan your social life. And you may have to pay for your own work tools.
• You might also want to consider how long your career as a barber might last. Though it can be a fulfilling job, the work can be hard on your neck, back, hands, and feet. 💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.
The Takeaway
Your income potential as a barber will likely depend on where you work and the loyalty of your clientele. If you’re a creative and skilled stylist who likes keeping up with the latest trends, and you have good social skills, being a barber could be a great career choice. It also can help to have some business skills, as you may face unique challenges when it comes to managing your income, tracking your cash flow, planning for retirement, and paying taxes.
FAQ
Can you make $100,000 a year as a barber?
Once you establish yourself and build a solid clientele, you may be able to earn six figures as a barber. Your success, though, will likely depend on how in demand you are, how willing you are to travel or work long hours, the clientele you cater to, and if you own your own shop.
Do people like being a barber?
Though barbering can be hard work, barbers on Payscale.com gave their job an average of 4.2 stars out of 5. If cutting hair and providing other personal care services is your passion — and you’d enjoy building a bond with your clients — you could find a career as a barber is right for you.
Is it hard to get hired as a barber?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for barbers should be solid for at least the next decade. If you get the proper training, become a licensed barber, and can demonstrate that you have the skills and demeanor for the job, it shouldn’t be too hard to find work.
Photo credit: iStock/dusanpetkovic
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The median annual pay for a sonographer is $78,210 annually for the most recent year studied, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Working as a sonographer is a great way to enter the medical field without having to pursue an expensive advanced degree. Typically, only an associate’s degree is needed to work as a sonographer, which can be obtained quickly and affordably.
Read on to learn more about how much a sonographer can earn and what it’s like to work as this kind of professional.
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What Are Sonographers?
A sonographer — also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer — uses sonography technology and tools to create images typically known as ultrasounds or sonograms. These images can give us a detailed look at organs and tissues within the body or of embryos and fetuses. There are many different types of sonographers who specialize in distinct areas of medicine, such as:
• Abdominal sonographers
• Breast sonographers
• Cardiac sonographers (echocardiographers)
• Musculoskeletal sonographers
• Pediatric sonographers
• Obstetric and gynecologic sonographers
• Vascular technologists (vascular sonographers).
As briefly mentioned above, training for this career usually doesn’t involve medical school and its cost. Instead, diagnostic medical sonographers may obtain a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree, or perhaps a vocational school degree or hospital training program certificate. Some may be trained in the Armed Forces.
It’s also worth noting that working as a sonographer will likely involve a high degree of patient interaction. For this reason, it may not be a good job for introverts. 💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.
How Much Do Starting Sonographers Make a Year?
Entry-level sonographers should expect their salary to be on the lower side until they gain more experience. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $61,430 per year.
However, the top 10% of earners working as sonographers make more than $107,730, meaning this is a career path that can lead to a job that pays $100,000 a year.
In addition to experience level, other aspects that can lead to competitive pay is your geographical location (big city vs. rural community) and whether the employer is a major hospital network, say, or a small, independent medical office.
Recommended: What Trade Earns the Most Money?
What is the Average Salary for a Sonographer?
Those who work full-time as a sonographer can expect to earn a median annual salary of $78,210. However, some sonographers choose to work part-time and are paid by the hour. In terms of how much a sonographer makes an hour, the median hourly pay for sonography work is $37.60 per hour.
Many factors can influence how much a sonographer earns and the state they work in is a major one. The following table illustrates how average sonographer salaries can vary significantly by state, with earnings shown from highest to lowest.
What is the Average Sonographer Salary by State for 2023
State
Annual Salary
Monthly Pay
Weekly Pay
Hourly Wage
New York
$130,753
$10,896
$2,514
$62.86
Pennsylvania
$119,728
$9,977
$2,302
$57.56
New Hampshire
$117,077
$9,756
$2,251
$56.29
New Jersey
$115,302
$9,608
$2,217
$55.43
Wyoming
$114,058
$9,504
$2,193
$54.84
Washington
$113,902
$9,491
$2,190
$54.76
Wisconsin
$113,086
$9,423
$2,174
$54.37
Massachusetts
$113,082
$9,423
$2,174
$54.37
Alaska
$112,787
$9,398
$2,168
$54.22
Oregon
$111,873
$9,322
$2,151
$53.79
Indiana
$111,695
$9,307
$2,147
$53.70
North Dakota
$111,668
$9,305
$2,147
$53.69
Hawaii
$109,499
$9,124
$2,105
$52.64
Arizona
$109,385
$9,115
$2,103
$52.59
New Mexico
$108,705
$9,058
$2,090
$52.26
Colorado
$107,986
$8,998
$2,076
$51.92
Minnesota
$107,959
$8,996
$2,076
$51.90
Montana
$107,737
$8,978
$2,071
$51.80
Nevada
$106,643
$8,886
$2,050
$51.27
Alabama
$106,391
$8,865
$2,045
$51.15
South Dakota
$105,538
$8,794
$2,029
$50.74
Vermont
$105,369
$8,780
$2,026
$50.66
Ohio
$105,308
$8,775
$2,025
$50.63
Rhode Island
$103,621
$8,635
$1,992
$49.82
Iowa
$102,378
$8,531
$1,968
$49.22
Delaware
$102,241
$8,520
$1,966
$49.15
Connecticut
$102,051
$8,504
$1,962
$49.06
Virginia
$101,059
$8,421
$1,943
$48.59
Mississippi
$100,644
$8,387
$1,935
$48.39
Tennessee
$100,545
$8,378
$1,933
$48.34
Utah
$100,028
$8,335
$1,923
$48.09
Illinois
$99,727
$8,310
$1,917
$47.95
Georgia
$99,110
$8,259
$1,905
$47.65
Maryland
$99,089
$8,257
$1,905
$47.64
California
$98,791
$8,232
$1,899
$47.50
Nebraska
$97,188
$8,099
$1,869
$46.73
Maine
$96,740
$8,061
$1,860
$46.51
Missouri
$96,025
$8,002
$1,846
$46.17
South Carolina
$95,081
$7,923
$1,828
$45.71
Kansas
$94,735
$7,894
$1,821
$45.55
Idaho
$94,316
$7,859
$1,813
$45.34
Louisiana
$94,256
$7,854
$1,812
$45.32
Oklahoma
$94,119
$7,843
$1,809
$45.25
Texas
$93,511
$7,792
$1,798
$44.96
North Carolina
$93,119
$7,759
$1,790
$44.77
West Virginia
$92,468
$7,705
$1,778
$44.46
Kentucky
$89,668
$7,472
$1,724
$43.11
Michigan
$89,461
$7,455
$1,720
$43.01
Florida
$87,711
$7,309
$1,686
$42.17
Arkansas
$85,099
$7,091
$1,636
$40.91
Source: ZipRecruiter
Sonographer Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits
If a sonographer chooses to work part-time, they may not gain access to the same suite of valuable employee benefits that full-time sonographers typically earn. While employee benefits can vary by employer, full-time sonographers can generally expect to receive healthcare coverage, paid time off, and retirement plans as a part of their overall compensation package. 💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.
Pros and Cons of Sonographer Salary
One of the biggest pros associated with a sonographer’s salary is that they don’t have to take on expensive medical school debt — which can really eat into a worker’s monthly budget. An associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate may be required but will cost less than pursuing other degree requirements commonly found in the medical field.
Regarding cons, some may find the salary doesn’t outweigh the hardships of the job. Many sonographers work nights and weekends and are on their feet for long periods of time.
Recommended: Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage
The Takeaway
Sonographers currently earn an average of $78,210 per year. They have a very valuable medical-service skill set, and demand for that skill is growing. It’s anticipated that job openings for this role will grow by 10% from 2022 to 2032, which is above the national average rate. As they navigate their careers, sonographers will likely want to make progress in their financial lives, with smart budgeting and saving.
SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.
FAQ
Can you make 100k a year as a sonographer?
It is possible to earn $100,000 or more each year as a sonographer. On average, sonographers in the state of New York earn $130,753 per year. Where someone lives, how many years of experience they have, and their specialty can all impact how much they earn.
Do people like being a sonographer?
Working as a sonographer is a great fit for anyone who finds the work interesting and who enjoys patient interaction. Because this role requires so much patient care throughout the day, it’s not the best fit for those who are antisocial.
Is it hard to get hired as a sonographer?
Around 9,600 openings for diagnostic medical sonographers are anticipated to be available each year. Because of this high demand, if someone has the right education and qualifications, they should be able to find work as a sonographer.
Photo credit: iStock/dusanpetkovic
SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.
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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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Mortgage rates continue to surge, pushing back above 7% after months of volatility. Homebuyers taking out a home loan with a 7% interest rate are budgeting hundreds more than expected to cover their average monthly mortgage payment.
For the past two years, prospective homebuyers have been pushed to the sidelines due to higher interest rates. A February survey by Realtor.com noted that 40% of potential homebuyers said they’d be more willing to take on a mortgage if rates were to drop below 6%. Yet most mortgage forecasts don’t expect rates to dip below that number until 2025.
Though mortgage rates fluctuate daily, you don’t have to wait another year for market rates to drop. Getting a 6% mortgage rate could be possible right now, as long as your finances are in shape and you find a mortgage lender that fits your needs.
Today’s mortgage rates are around 7%
In early April, the average weekly rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is hovering around 7%, according to Bankrate, CNET’s sister site.
Rates generally climb higher when the economy is strong and drop at the sign of trouble. When the pandemic pushed the economy into uncertainty in 2020, rates plummeted to historic lows and hovered below 4% for the next two years.
Yet high inflation and the Federal Reserve’s aggressive interest rate hikes pushed rates higher, reaching 8% last October.
“What’s keeping rates volatile and higher is an underlying strong economy,” said Nicole Rueth, senior vice president with Movement Mortgage. “We continue to have economic reports and indicators that show consumers are spending and staying confident.”
The good news for homebuyers is that mortgage rates are expected to slowly decline in 2024, though they won’t reach record lows again.
Read more: You Won’t Get a 2% Mortgage Again. How to Adjust to a Different Housing Market
What’s the difference between a 6% or 7% rate?
Snagging a 6% rate can offer savings on your monthly payment and over the life of the loan. A difference of 1 percentage point may not seem like much, but the savings add up over time.
For instance, let’s say you buy a home for $400,000 and make a down payment of 20% on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. The difference between a 7% rate and a 6% rate means a savings of $210 a month, which amounts to $75,746 saved over the life of the loan.
How to get a 6% mortgage rate now
Many factors go into determining mortgage rates. You can’t control the economic factors, but there are ways to prepare your finances to get the best deal and lower your personal rate.
1. Buy mortgage points
A mortgage point, also known as a mortgage discount point, is an upfront fee you can pay the lender in exchange for a lower interest rate on your home loan. Each point costs 1% of the purchase price of a home and usually knocks the rate down by 0.25%.
On a $400,000 home, you’d pay $4,000 for one discount point. The lender may even allow you to buy four mortgage points to lower the rate from 7% to 6%, though you’d have to shell out $16,000 to get there.
To check whether this strategy is worthwhile, take the total cost of the points, and compare it to the overall monthly savings. “How long is it going to take you to pay it back? Are you going to be in the house that long?” Rueth asked.
In this case, when you pay $16,000 to buy four points and save $210 per month, it would take you more than six years to reach your break-even point.
2. Improve your credit score
Lenders look at your credit score to decide whether you qualify for a home loan and the interest rate you receive. Generally, a higher credit score shows you’ve managed debt responsibly in the past. A better credit history lowers your risk to a lender, which can help you secure a lower interest rate.
In fact, raising your credit score from the “fair” range to the “very good” range may help lower your rate by around 0.22 percentage points, according to a 2024 Lending Tree survey. In the survey example, that rate difference helped borrowers save $16,677 over the lifetime of a home loan.
3. Increase your down payment
Your down payment is the amount you can contribute to your home purchase upfront. Each type of home loan comes with a minimum down payment, usually ranging from 0% to 5%, but a higher down payment can help lower your rate. That’s because the lender takes on less risk when you contribute more toward the loan.
Because a down payment lowers your rate and contributes to your home equity, some home loan experts recommend making a larger down payment, around 20%, instead of buying mortgage points. That’s because if you sell the home or refinance before reaching your break-even point, you lose money. But the amount you spent for your down payment becomes part of your equity.
4. Take out an adjustable-rate mortgage
An adjustable-rate mortgage, or ARM, is a home loan with a fixed rate for a set introductory period, such as five years. Once that period ends, the interest rate can go up or down in regular intervals for the remaining term.
The big appeal of ARMs is that the introductory interest rate is often lower than the rate on traditional mortgages. In early March, the average 5/1 ARM rate was 6.61% compared to 6.98% for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages.
5. Negotiate your mortgage rate
When you’re applying for mortgage loans, you don’t have to go with the company that did your preapproval. In fact, research shows that getting rate quotes from multiple lenders and comparing offers can result in significant savings. If you want to use this strategy, start by submitting a mortgage application with lenders that fit your criteria. Once you have a few loan estimates in hand, use the best one to negotiate with the lender you want to work with.
The loan officer may lower your rate, help you save on closing costs or offer other incentives to get you onboard. In early 2022, one-third of homebuyers negotiated their mortgage rates and many were able to get a better deal, according to research from Fannie Mae.
6. Get a shorter home loan term
Nearly 90% of homebuyers choose a 30-year fixed mortgage term because it offers the most flexibility and monthly payment affordability. Payments are lower because they’re stretched over a longer timeline, but you can always put more toward the principal here and there. But when you take out a longer-term home loan, “you’re holding up the lender’s money, and there’s an opportunity cost for the funds to be invested elsewhere,” Rueth said.
Shorter loan terms (10-year and 15-year mortgages) and ARMs have lower interest rates, giving you the option of reducing your rate now.
Choosing a shorter repayment term could help you save money since you’ll be paying less in interest over the long term. But don’t make the homebuying mistake of choosing a shorter loan term just for the lower rate. Because you’ll have less time to pay back the money you borrow, shorter loan terms break down to higher monthly payments, and you’ll need to make sure those fit within your budget.
Is a 6% mortgage rate even that affordable?
In short, yes, but it’s all relative.
“In today’s market, 6% is a great rate compared to the historic average of a little over 7%,” Rueth said. “However, 6% no longer looks good because homeowners were spoiled by 2.75% mortgage rates a few years ago.”
Homeowners also feel the burden of steep home prices, making those high rates hurt even more.
But you can save money on your mortgage by taking some (or all) of these steps. Improving your credit score, increasing your down payment, buying points and negotiating your rate may help bring your rate from 7% down to 6%, or even lower.
Oregon offers an array of natural beauty, from the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean to the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range. Its cities, like Portland with its eclectic vibe and Eugene as a hub for arts and outdoor enthusiasts, provide distinctive living environments. Yet, living in Oregon presents its own set of considerations. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of living in Oregon, offering valuable insights to help you navigate what life is like in the “Beaver Sate.”
Renting in Oregon snapshot
1. Pro: Vibrant outdoor activities
Oregon’s diverse landscape offers an abundance of outdoor activities, from hiking in the Cascade Mountains to exploring the scenic coastline. Whether you’re into mountain biking through the lush forests of Mount Hood, kayaking along pristine rivers, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic surrounded by breathtaking scenery, Oregon offers endless opportunities.
2. Con: Weather variability
Oregon’s weather can be quite variable, with the western part of the state experiencing a lot of rainfall, leading to damp conditions for much of the year. This can affect outdoor plans and sometimes lead to seasonal affective disorder among residents. Additionally, the eastern part of the state tends to be drier, offering a stark contrast to the coastal regions and providing opportunities for different outdoor activities and landscapes to explore.
3. Pro: Eco-friendly living
Oregon is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Cities like Portland are at the forefront of green living, with extensive recycling programs, eco-friendly public transportation options, and a high number of LEED-certified buildings. For example, Portland’s MAX Light Rail system not only reduces carbon emissions but also provides convenient access to various parts of the city without the need for a car.
4. Con: High income tax rates
Oregon has one of the highest state income tax rates in the country. This can significantly affect the take-home pay of residents, making it a challenging aspect of financial planning for those living and working in the state. For instance, Oregon’s progressive income tax system imposes higher rates on higher income brackets, with the top marginal rate exceeding 9%.
5. Pro: Rich cultural scene
The state boasts a rich cultural scene, with a thriving arts community, numerous music festivals, and a strong craft beer and coffee culture. Cities like Portland and Eugene host a variety of cultural events that celebrate Oregon’s diverse heritage and innovative spirit. If you’re in the area be sure to check out Portland Pizza Week where you can find $2 slices around downtown.
6. Con: Earthquake risk
Oregon is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it susceptible to earthquakes. While the state has made strides in preparing for such events, the potential for significant seismic activity remains a concern for residents.
7. Pro: Active lifestyle
In Oregon, an active lifestyle is ingrained in the culture, with residents embracing outdoor recreation as a way of life. From hiking in the Cascade Mountains to surfing along the coast, there are endless opportunities to stay active and explore nature’s wonders.
8. Con: Seasonal allergies
Oregon’s seasonal allergies can be a downside to living in the state, particularly for those sensitive to pollen and other allergens. During certain times of the year, such as spring and early summer, pollen levels can be high in cities like Salem, leading to discomfort for allergy sufferers.
9. Pro: Diverse culinary scene
Oregon’s culinary scene is celebrated for its diversity, with a focus on farm-to-table dining, seafood sourced directly from the Pacific Ocean, and a vibrant array of international cuisines. For example, Portland’s food carts offer a taste of global flavors, from authentic Mexican street tacos to Japanese ramen bowls.
10. Con: Traffic congestion
In urban areas, particularly Portland, traffic congestion can be a significant issue. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with the growing population, leading to longer commute times and frustration among drivers.
11. Pro: No sales tax
Oregon’s lack of sales tax is a significant perk for residents, allowing them to stretch their dollars further when making purchases. This absence of sales tax means that the price displayed is the final price, simplifying budgeting and reducing unexpected expenses for consumers.
12. Con: Limited job opportunities
Oregon’s job market can be competitive and limited, particularly in certain industries and regions of the state. This scarcity of job opportunities may require residents to search extensively or consider relocation for employment prospects, especially in fields outside of the state’s dominant sectors like technology and healthcare.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
You likely agree that saving money is a good idea. Putting extra cash aside every month can help you reach your financial goals, whether that’s building an emergency fund, going on vacation, or putting a down payment on a car or home.
But wanting to save money and actually doing it are two very different things. It’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day needs (and wants), and never gain any traction on savings. But don’t give up. We’ve got 33 tricks and tips that can make saving simple and pain-free. The best part — you can get started as soon as today.
Saving Money Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming
While spending less and saving more admittedly sounds painful, it doesn’t have to be that hard. You don’t have to go to the extremes like never shopping or having fun. Just making a few small changes in your day-to-day spending habits can actually add up to a big difference in how much you save each month.
Getting better with money is like any type of behavior modification — the key to lasting change is to make small, incremental changes that stick.
💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.
33 Easy Ways to Save Money
What follows are 33 simple money-saving tips you can start working on right now.
1. Tracking Your Spending
One of the best ways to spend less and save more is to take a close look at where your money is currently going. You can track your spending by scanning your checking account and credit card statements over the last few months. But a simpler way is to use a budgeting app that syncs with your accounts and keeps track of what you spend in different categories in real time.
Once you have a big-picture idea of your cash flow, you can make adjustments. Spending a lot more on takeout than you thought? Commit to cooking one or two more nights per week. Is keeping up with fashion killing your budget? You may want to focus on spending less on clothing.
2. Selling Items You Never Use
An simple way to earn some extra cash is to periodically sell gently used items you no longer want or need. You might organize a yard sale or resell your items piecemeal via online marketplaces like OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay. If you have extra clothes, shoes, or accessories in good condition, consider listing them on Poshmark or thredUP. Selling your unwanted stuff is essentially getting paid for clearing out clutter.
3. Limiting Time Spent on Social Media
Watching influencers take luxury vacations and promote their favorite products can prompt you to spend more and live beyond your means. In fact, recent research finds that social media can significantly impact your finances — and not in a good way.
Putting a time limit on daily phone scrolling, on the other hand, can automatically lead to less spending and more saving. It also frees up time for activities that can truly enhance your life, like reading, exercising, seeing (real) friends, even taking up side hustle (and earning more money).
4. Setting Goals for Saving
When we do things with focus, intention, and a clear goal in mind, we usually have an easier time making it happen. Instead of saving for the sake of saving, consider setting specific savings goals with target dates and amounts. For instance, maybe you want to save $5,000 for a summer vacation or $2,000 for a new computer.
By setting a target date, you can work backward and figure out exactly how much you need to set aside regularly. For example, if you want a new laptop in eight months, and it will cost you about $2,000, you’ll need to save $250 a month or about $60 a week.
5. Buying Generic Brands
Generic brands typically have the same ingredients and offer comparable quality to name brands but for a fraction of the price. For example, generic drugs usually cost 80% to 85% less than their brand-name counterparts. During your next supermarket or drugstore visit, try to go generic whenever it’s offered. Chances are, the only difference you’ll notice is less money draining out of your checking account.
6. Comparison Shopping
Spending a bit of extra time comparison shopping can help you scoop up the best deals and avoid paying full price. You can do it on your phone while you shop in-store. For online shopping, consider installing a browser extension that helps you find the lowest prices and automatically applies coupons and cash-back options at checkout. Many of these tools will also alert you when the price of an item you intend to purchase drops.
7. Automating Your Savings
Rather than transfer money to your savings account whenever you think of it, consider putting your savings on autopilot. Simply set up a recurring transfer from your checking account to your savings account for the same day each month (perhaps right after you get paid). It’s fine to start small. Even $50 can add up to a sizable sum over time, since the transfer happens every month without fail.
8. Making Monthly Debt Payments
While it’s not directly putting money into your bank account, making on-time, consistent payments on your debt means you’ll pay it off quicker. Once your debt is paid off, the money you are currently spending on principal/interest can go towards savings. In addition to your monthly minimum payments, try to put extra payments towards high-interest debt each month. You’ll whittle those balances down faster and save on interest.
9. Delaying Gratification
If you see something you want to buy but don’t actually need, consider putting off the purchase for at least one week (or ideally 30 days). Tell yourself that if you still want the item and can afford it after the waiting period, you can go ahead and buy it. Chances are good that once that waiting period is over, you’ll no longer have a burning need to purchase the item and simply move on.
10. Meal Planning
If it’s 6pm, you’re tired from a full day of work, and have no food in the house, you’ll probably seek out the path of least resistance — getting takeout or eating out. Your best defense against overspending on food is to sit down every Sunday to scan recipes and come up with a meal plan for the week (including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks). You can then make a shopping list and hit the store.
Recommended: Examining the Price of Eating at Home Versus Eating Out
11. Avoiding the Daily Coffee
While it’s fine to occasionally splurge on a fancy coffee, getting your daily coffee out can add up, especially if you sometimes throw in a tempting pastry at the last minute. Even cutting back your coffee shop visits to just two or three times a week and brewing at home the other days can help you save a lot on coffee.
12. Making Repairs Instead of Buying New
While it is easier to replace items than fix them, the latter approach is better for both your wallet and the environment. Depending on the item, a repair could end up costing significantly less expensive than a replacement. Call around for quotes or ask for help from a tech-savvy or handy friend. Also see if there are “repair cafes” in your community. These are volunteer-run events where you can get items mended or fixed for free.
13. Using Cash Instead of Credit Cards
While credit cards are convenient, they make it all too easy to spend money. When you tap or swipe to make a purchase, you don’t really have a sense that you are giving up physical money. Switching to cash-only, even for just a month or so, can help you become more mindful about your spending. You might even try the envelope system. This involves labeling envelopes for each spending category, dividing your available cash for the month into the envelopes, and then only spending what’s in each envelope.
14. Switch to a New Cell Phone Carrier
When it comes to cell service, you don’t have to stick with the big names. Mobile virtual network operators (such as Mint Mobile, Consumer Cellular or Republic Wireless) typically offer the same quality of service at a much lower price tag. It’s also a good idea to look at your last cell phone bill to see how much data you actually use. You may be able to get a smaller plan to save even more.
15. Doing it Yourself Instead of Hiring Someone
Before you hire someone for a home repair or improvement job, like painting a room, re-caulking your tub or shower, or installing a water filter under your sink, consider whether or not you could do it yourself. Often, the cost of materials and a simple YouTube search will lead to significant savings.
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16. Stacking Coupons
There are two major types of coupons: Store coupons, which are issued by a specific retailer and can only be used at those locations (you can find these in the paper and through a retailer’s app or mailer); and manufacturer’s coupons, which are found on manufacturer’s and coupon sites. By stacking them, you get an even deeper discount. Stacking coupons for an item that is on sale is a triple whammy that can bring you back to pre-inflation prices.
17. Canceling Some Subscriptions
Dropping subscriptions that you hardly use or are redundant is a simple money-saving move with a potentially big payoff, since these debits occur monthly. It’s worth scanning your checking account and credit card statements for recurring charges to see if there are any items you can cut. If you primarily watch one streaming service but pay for four, for example, canceling three can save you significant cash.
18. Using a Refillable Water Bottle
While keeping bottled water (and seltzers or sodas) on hand is convenient, the cost can add up, especially if you have a family. A simple way to spend less at the grocery store each week is to give each person in your household their own reusable water bottle. You can then take bottled drinks off your shopping list. This will not only save money but also reduce plastic waste.
19. Taking Advantage of Free Resources
You might be surprised at how many things you can actually get for free. For example, your library can grant you access to movies, books, activities, and in some cases, passes to state parks and other nearby attractions. You might also join a Buy Nothing group. These are hyper-local virtual communities where neighbors can give and receive essentially anything for free.
20. Canceling Your Gym Membership
If you’re becoming a stranger to your gym, consider canceling your membership. Even if you got a great deal, gyms debit money out of your bank account every month, whether you go or not. You might look for alternative, low-cost ways to get physically fit, such as walking/jogging/biking around your neighborhood, lifting free weights at home, and taking hikes.
21. Saving Change
A nickel here and a quarter there might not seem like much, but if you start dropping all your spare change into a jar every day, you’ll be surprised at how much you’ll accumulate. If you rarely carry or pay in cash, consider collecting digital change. Many money-saving apps automatically round up your purchase to the nearest dollar, then transfer the difference into your savings account.
💡 Quick Tip: Want a simple way to save more everyday? When you turn on Roundups, all of your debit card purchases are automatically rounded up to the next dollar and deposited into your online savings account.
22. Skipping Alcohol at Restaurants
Ordering a cocktail or a glass of wine (or three) when out to dinner can significantly inflate your bill. Consider getting water or a non-alcoholic beverage instead, then perhaps having a glass of wine when you get home. If you must drink, local beer, “house wine” options, and happy hour cocktails are usually the cheapest options.
23. Finding Free Family Entertainment
Taking the family to concerts, movies, and immersive art exhibits can add up quickly. Instead, look for free or low-cost community activities. These offerings typically spike during the summer months and around holidays. To stay abreast of upcoming goings-on, you can sign up for newsletters or follow social media accounts of your local community, recreation centers, and libraries.
24. Doing a No-Spend Challenge
A simple way to save (potentially hundreds) is to do a no-spend month. This involves spending money only on essentials for 30 days. Before you begin, it’s a good idea to set parameters for what you will and won’t spend money on and then commit to the plan. It’s only a month! By the end of the challenge, you may realize there were certain things you didn’t really miss and rethink your approach to spending.
25. Reducing Your Energy Use
You may be able to significantly lower your utility bills with just a few tweaks to your habits and home. Try taking shorter showers, fixing any drippy faucets or constantly running toilets, turning off lights whenever you leave a room, and washing your clothes in cold water. Once you see a difference in your monthly bills, you’ll be encouraged to carry on and find more ways to cut energy use.
26. Adjusting Your Tax Withholdings.
If you typically get a refund after doing your taxes, you’re essentially giving the government an interest-free loan. That’s money that could be working for you by earning interest in a high-yield savings account. Revisit your withholdings and put that extra money into your own bank account.
27. Taking a Staycation Instead of a Vacation
It may sound boring, but you’d be surprised how much a staycation can feel like a fun and luxurious getaway. The key is to take a complete break from your daily routine, change up the scenery, and spend time doing things you truly enjoy. This can provide the respite you’ve been longing for — minus the headaches of travel — and for a fraction of the price.
28. Finding Cheap Ways to Reward Yourself
If you focus too hard on saving and never on fun, you might end up feeling deprived and give up on the whole project. Instead, allow yourself to celebrate small money wins and life events on the cheap. For instance, for every X amount you’ve put away into your emergency fund, you might reward yourself with a fancy coffee, a $5 “spree” at the dollar store, or getting a treat at your favorite ice cream shop.
29. Avoiding Bank Fees
Overdraft fees, ATM fees, and monthly maintenance fees can make your bank account balance move in the wrong direction — down instead of up. To ditch costly overdraft fees, keep regular tabs on your checking account to make sure you have enough to cover your debits and checks. To eliminate other fees, you may want to look for a bank account that doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees and ATM fees.
30. Haggling
Negotiating prices isn’t just for buying cars or houses. You can haggle for just about any product or service — your cable and cell phone bills, things you buy in stores, and even your rent. The key to success is to come to the negotiation prepared (do all the research you may need in advance), speak with confidence, and start off the conversation with the question, “What flexibility do you have?”
Recommended: 15 Creative Ways to Save Money
31. Saving Your Windfalls
It can be tempting to go hog wild and spend your windfalls. But next time you get a work bonus, cash gift, or tax refund (which you actually want to avoid, see tip #26), consider spending a small percentage of it on something frivolous and fun, then putting the rest into your savings account. This can help you reach your savings goals significantly faster.
Recommended: The Fastest Ways to Get a Tax Refund
32. Timing Your Purchases Right
If you want to buy something that you don’t need right away, it’s worth researching the best times of the year for deals and sales. For example, you can often find great deals on cars in May, October, November and December; clothes are typically cheapest at the end of any season; and the end and the very beginning of the year are generally the best times to buy appliances.
33. Switching to a High-Yield Savings Account
If your extra cash is sitting in a traditional savings account, you’re missing out on a free source of extra cash. A high-yield savings account is a type of savings that you can open at many banks and credit unions. But it differs from a traditional savings account in that it offers an annual percentage yield (APY) that’s 10 to 20 times higher. If, for example, you put $25,000 into a savings account with a 4.60% APY, you’ll earn an extra $177.78 by the end of the year — just for letting the money sit in the bank.
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FAQ
Why is saving money important?
Saving money enables you to build an emergency fund that protects you against the unexpected. It also allows you to work towards — and achieve — future goals, such as buying a car or home, sending your kids to college, and being able to one day retire.
How can I find the motivation to save money?
To find the motivation to save money, it helps to set specific goals. Think about the things you want to buy or do in the next year or two and how much these things will cost. You can then determine how much you need to set aside each month to reach your goals. Watching your savings account balance go up can also help keep you motivated.
What are the consequences of not saving money?
When you don’t have a cushion of savings, any bump in the road (such as a car or home repair, trip to the ER, or loss of income) can force you to run up credit card debt. This can lead to a debt spiral that can take months, if not years, to recover from. Not saving also means you won’t make any progress towards your financial goals and simply continue living paycheck to paycheck.
Photo credit: iStock/Chaninan Boongate
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.
SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.
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Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.
Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
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Paying for groceries comes with some sticker shock these days. No matter what you fill your shopping cart with, you’re bound to feel some pain at the checkout aisle.
But creating a sensible grocery budget can help you take back control. Of course, the more realistic your budget is, the more likely you’ll be to follow it. So, identifying a reasonable amount to spend is your first step.
Next is learning a few smart ways to save, including knowing when and how to splurge. You can also explore getting rewards for the food you buy—like how a Discover® Cashback Debit account can provide a bonus for every dollar you spend.
It all comes together to make budgeting for groceries an achievable and helpful goal.
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Rising costs hit your grocery budget where it hurts
It’s no secret that food costs have soared in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), food-at-home prices rose 5% from 2022 to 2023 and an even more significant 11.4% from 2021 to 2022—both increases are well above the prior 20-year annual average growth of 2.5%.
And high prices aren’t likely to go away anytime soon. The good news is that compared to eating out, preparing your own food already puts you one step closer to spending less. The next thing you need to decide is exactly how much you can afford to spend when you shop.
Unfortunately, there isn’t one figure for how much is typically budgeted for food. That’s because families vary in size, and individual grocery needs can fluctuate depending on diet, age, lifestyle, and location.
However, the USDA publishes annual reports on monthly food budgets based on gender and age. It also separates the plans into four cost categories: thrifty, low-cost, moderate-cost, and liberal.
For example, according to the USDA’s thrifty food plan for January 2024, the average weekly grocery budget (in the continental U.S.) for a single male ages 20-50 was $70.10 but only $55.90 for a similar-aged single female. For families, the thrifty food plan comes in at an average weekly cost of $225.20 for two adults and two young children.
While this USDA spending data isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation, it can be a helpful starting point for grocery shopping on a budget.
Your grocery budget is set; now stick to it
Going over budget on groceries is an unappetizing prospect for most shoppers. But, sticking to your budget can be difficult in certain situations—such as when you entertain guests or experiment with new recipes. That’s why it’s important to make these five key strategies part of your routine:
1. Create a detailed shopping list
Planning your meals in advance is helpful because it can establish a ballpark cost for each grocery run. If one or more of your recipes ends up breaking the budget, you can consider swapping it for a more economical alternative.
2. Check for deals and discounts
Yes, you can still use paper and digital coupons to help you save when you shop. Another option is to sign up for members-only deals at your local grocery store. Doing so can help keep costs down, and there’s usually no fee for being a member.
3. Buy in bulk
Opting to buy in larger quantities usually translates into a lower cost per item, which is handy for things you use frequently or items with a long shelf life. Jumbo packs of toilet paper can help you save (if you have the room), but big bags of fresh avocados will likely lead to waste—of both food and money.
Tip: If you find yourself frequently throwing out expired food or other items, check out this guide to a zero-waste lifestyle.
4. Don’t snub store brands
The quality of today’s store brands has come a long way over the past decade, and many of these lower-cost products are worth trying.
5. Pay with a debit card that pays you back
With the Discover Cashback Debit card, for example, you can earn 1% cash back1 on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases every month.
To splurge or not to splurge?
If you want to treat yourself to premium items now and then, you can probably snag a couple of luxury groceries without blowing your weekly budget. However, those few small indulgences can add up if you’re not careful—so scout for deals that still fit your grocery budget.
And remember, certain grocery items tend to inflate the tab even when you only purchase a relatively small amount. Think imported/specialty foods and alcohol. (Word to the wise: Taxes on spirits may be higher than on beer and wine.)
Proceed to checkout
Grocery shopping on a budget won’t look the same for every shopper. However, getting some practice for how to grocery shop on a budget can reduce stress when it comes time to pay for other necessities like rent, utilities, clothing, and transportation.
And like most things, the grocery budget you set isn’t carved in stone. Review and revise your grocery spending often to see if there are additional ways to save or cut back on food waste. Bon appétit!
If you’ve ever struggled to create a budget, you’re not alone. Check out these 5 basic budgeting tips that can help you get started, even if making (or sticking to) budgets hasn’t worked for you in the past.
The information provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as professional advice. Nothing contained in this article shall give rise to, or be construed to give rise to, any obligation or liability whatsoever on the part of Discover Bank or its affiliates.
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Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.
For college students, sending money to friends has never been easier thanks to peer-to-peer payment apps like Venmo, PayPal and Cash App. But that convenience poses risks, including vulnerability to errors, fraud and the tendency to overspend.
As a result, payment apps can contribute to financial stress at a time when young people are learning how to manage their finances on their own. “Peer-to-peer payment apps are cash on steroids because they’re a straw stuck into your bank account,” says Anne Lester, author of “Your Best Financial Life.”
Not only does that make spending easier and more “frictionless,” Lester explains, but it also means “if you trust the wrong person, then you’re in big trouble,” because it can be difficult or impossible to get the money back.
To keep young people safe while using payment apps, money experts suggest taking these extra steps to guard against scams and overspending.
Triple-check the recipient
One risk with peer-to-peer payment apps is sending the money to the wrong person by accident. “If you send money, make sure you are 100% certain you are sending it to the right person, because it’s very hard to get the money back,” says Nilton Porto, associate professor of consumer finance at the University of Rhode Island.
For college students living on tight budgets, Porto says, an incorrect payment could really impact their ability to pay for essentials like rent and food, even if they eventually get the funds returned.
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Protect against fraud
Porto suggests being wary of unexpected requests, even those purportedly from a roommate, that claim to be urgent. “We don’t need to send money to almost anybody right away,” he says, explaining that scam artists often use urgency as a way to trick people into sending cash to them. Similarly, disregard any requests received through one of the apps containing a link that requests personal information, as it could also be a scam.
Erin Lowry, author of the “Broke Millennial Workbook,” warns against downloading any unfamiliar payment apps. “I would not be an early adopter to a payment app,” she cautions, given that it has access to your bank account.
As an additional precaution, Lowry suggests connecting payment apps to a bank account that you don’t keep the bulk of your money in. “My payment apps are connected to a bank account that’s not my primary account, so if something were to happen, it’s a low risk,” she says.
Update your privacy settings
“Default privacy settings are usually public,” notes Amanda Christensen, an accredited financial counselor and extension professor at Utah State University. That means a young adult’s payments to friends or funds received for a job could be visible to the public.
“The social part of the payment apps is where we get some of the best scammers out there because they can see what’s being regularly paid for,” Christensen says. To adjust who can see your activity in Venmo, for example, go into “settings” on the app and scroll to find the various “privacy” options, such as public, friends or private.
Earn a return elsewhere
Christensen suggests establishing a habit of transferring any balance out of payment apps once a week. “Set a note in your phone,” she says, cautioning against treating the app like a checking account, where you let money sit.
Not only is cash sitting in an app vulnerable to fraud, but it also doesn’t earn a return like it could in a savings account. Jake Cousineau, author of “How to Adult” and a high school teacher, says he sees many young people receiving payments for side jobs like tutoring through payment apps. Instead of quickly transferring the money into a savings account, they let it linger, which means losing out on interest that would otherwise be accumulating. Payment apps also generally lack the protections from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. that come with bank accounts, he adds.
Don’t forget to budget
The convenience of payment apps makes it easy to overspend, Christensen notes. That’s why she suggests turning to cash at times for a week or so. “Reconnect yourself to the pain of spending,” she says.
Cousineau recommends not letting “these apps get in the way of having a detailed budget.” Just because you can easily send a friend $20 with a few taps doesn’t mean you should.
The apps might even be able to help. Porto says you can use the timeline of a payment app to help track your spending. Just as with a credit or debit card, you can scroll through your history to determine what changes you might want to make in the future. “You can see where all the money went, which can be very powerful for college students,” he says.
In other words, leverage the power of these payment apps to help you manage your money, instead of just spending it.
This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.
Groceries are one of the biggest budget items on most families’ lists. Of course, how much you spend will depend on where you live, what you eat, and what your spending habits are. As food costs increase, so may the grocery budget for a family of three.
As you create or revise a monthly budget, it can help to look at how your food spending compares to other families.
Table of Contents
American Average Grocery Budget for Family of 3
Each month, the USDA publishes a report showing the average costs of groceries at three price levels: budget, moderate, and liberal. Here’s a look at the middle-of-the-road spending for a family of three in 2023. Notice how the average cost of groceries rose more than $87 over the course of the year.
Month (in 2023)
Average Cost of Groceries
January
$975.00
February
$975.00
March
$967.50
April
$970.90
May
$976.70
June
$977.80
July
$981.30
August
$981.00
September
$980.10
October
$983.20
November
$977.00
December
$975.70
💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.
How Much to Budget for Groceries Per Person
No matter the size of your family, your grocery budget can depend largely on the cost of food where you live. For instance, according to data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, people in Hawaii, Alaska, and New York tend to pay more for food than residents of Texas, Wyoming, and Michigan. This means $700 per month for groceries may be more reasonable in Texas than in, say, Hawaii.
Creating a household budget and aren’t sure how much to allocate for food? A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10% of your income for groceries and other food costs. So if you take home around $5,000 a month, plan on budgeting $500 for food.
However, you may need to adjust that percentage, especially if you have a larger family or live in an area with a higher cost of living. It may be wise to track how much you spend in any given month on food and see what a reasonable budget would look like for you and your family.
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How to Prioritize Your Grocery Spending
What does it mean to prioritize your grocery spending? It’s simply a way to ensure you’re making the most every dollar when you’re grocery shopping on a budget.
One strategy to consider is to set aside money each month automatically so you have enough to spend on food. Another option is to put groceries as one of the top line items in your monthly budget so you don’t forget to set aside money for it first.
It’s also important to scrutinize how much you spend on food and the choices you make in the grocery store aisles. It could be that your grocery budget is fine, but you may need to reel in how much you spend on certain ingredients or find cheaper alternatives.
Above all, though, make sure you settle on a budget that works for you and your family. Be sure it’s enough to cover what’s important to you all while still sticking to your larger spending plan.
How to Stay Within Your Grocery Budget
It’s easy to give in to temptation at the grocery store, but rest assured, staying within budget is possible. These tips can help:
Shop at discount retailers
Buying your groceries at lower-priced retailers can add up to significant savings, even better if you’re able to purchase ingredients you need on sale. Some retailers may have rewards programs, helping you earn free or heavily discounted groceries.
• Make pricey purchases go the distance: Meat or related products like eggs tend to cost more than other ingredients. Look into recipes that help you stretch a pack of meat or carton of eggs over several meals.
• Use what you have: Before heading to the grocery store, go through your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry to see what you already have. Besides preventing food waste, this also helps you avoid purchasing items you don’t need.
• Buy store brands: In many cases, store-brand items cost much less than brand-name items. The quality for generic items may also be similar.
• Use coupons: Though it may not seem like it’ll make a huge difference, using coupons or grocery store rebates can help make every cent count. Be sure to do some comparison shopping before you hit the checkout counter. Even with discounts, you may still come out ahead with generic or store-brand versions.
• Embrace meal planning: Making plans can help you estimate your food costs for the week and ensure you only purchase items you need.
• Do a spending audit regularly: Tally up how much you’ve spent and what you’ve spent it on. Look for places to cut back on spending, such as purchasing pricey ingredients that can only be used once.
Recommended: Does Buying in Bulk Save Money?
How to Budget for Restaurants and Dining Out
Eating out is a luxury, but it can also be done on a budget. Consider the following tips the next time you’re considering a night out on the town:
• Decide how many times a month you want to eat out: Knowing approximately where and how many times you go out in a given month will help you make a realistic budget.
• Consider drinking only water: While it’s tempting to order fancy drinks when you’re out, sticking with water can help you and your family save money.
• Look for weekly specials or discounts: In an attempt to earn your business, many restaurants will offer specials, such as free kids meals or discounted menu items. These deals usually happen on a weekday, though on occasion you may find discounts during restaurants’ busier times as well.
• Budget for tipping: Paying for your meal isn’t the only cost involved in dining out. Make sure to leave enough room so you can tip your server or bartender.
Recommended: Examining the Price of Eating at Home vs Eating Out
Tips for Getting Help if You Can’t Afford to Buy Groceries
Sometimes, budgeting will only get you so far. If you need help with food and other necessities, there are some organizations and agencies you may be able to turn to for temporary help:
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): If you can meet the program’s eligibility requirements, the government-run program will give you a monthly stipend to spend on food for you and your family.
• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): The WIC program is for eligible pregnant women or mothers who have infants up to age 5 who are at risk of not receiving enough nutrients. Note that you’ll need to apply for this government-funded program.
• USDA National Hunger Hotline: If you’re facing food insecurity, you can call the hotline daily from 7am to 10pm ET to find resources like local meal sites or food banks.
• Local food pantries: Many religious organizations, colleges, and other local nonprofits may have food pantries. Call ahead to see when you can receive assistance.
💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.
The Takeaway
Budgeting for grocery costs isn’t always easy, but it’s worth the effort. It may be worth considering looking at average costs in your area as a guideline for how much to budget and looking at ways to save on food to ensure you’re not spending more than you can afford to. You may also want to consider using online tools like a money tracker app so you can maximize every dollar you make.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.
FAQ
What is a reasonable grocery budget?
Most experts recommend budgeting around 10% of your income to food costs.
How much should a family of four spend on groceries?
Depending on where you live, the average cost of groceries for a family of four can average from $1,044.70 to $1,568.10, according to data from USDA.
How much does an average family spend on groceries?
The average family spends about 11.3% on groceries, according to USDA data.
Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio
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Looking for the best jobs that help people? Whether you are looking for a full-time job or a way to make extra income, there are many ways to make money by helping others. Picking a job that matches what you want to achieve personally and lets you help others can feel really good. In lots…
Looking for the best jobs that help people?
Whether you are looking for a full-time job or a way to make extra income, there are many ways to make money by helping others.
Picking a job that matches what you want to achieve personally and lets you help others can feel really good. In lots of different fields, jobs where you can help people have become very popular.
Whether it’s teaching, counseling, healthcare, or responding to emergencies, each job lets you change someone else’s life for the better. If you like the idea of helping out your community and giving assistance to those who need it, there are plenty of rewarding jobs that might be right for you.
Now, that doesn’t mean the jobs below are easy. While you may feel good knowing that you are helping people, many of these jobs are very hard. But, you will know that you are truly helping people and changing the world for the better.
30 Best Jobs That Help People
Below are 30 full-time and part-time jobs helping others in crisis, in your community and at homes.
1. Social worker
If you’re someone who likes to help others, becoming a social worker might be the perfect job for you. Social workers support people who face challenges in their lives. This could mean working with children, families, or even whole communities.
Social workers might work in schools, helping kids and families get through tough times, or in hospitals guiding patients through health challenges.
2. Teacher
A teacher’s job is about more than just giving lessons. The job is to guide and help students understand new information. When you teach, you make a real difference in the lives of your students.
Teachers work in different settings, such as at a public school, private institution, or even provide one-on-one education as a tutor. Some teachers work online too, which is a great option if you’re looking for more flexibility.
You can choose to become a kindergarten teacher, high school teacher, college instructor, or anything in between.
Recommended reading: 36 Best Side Jobs for Teachers To Make Extra Money
3. Nurse
Nurses play an important role in healthcare, helping people feel better and stay healthy.
I have met so many amazing nurses in my life, and it is such a helpful career path. I still very much remember all of the wonderful nurses who helped me when I was in the hospital giving birth to my daughter – these nurses were amazing and helped me so much, and I truly felt like they cared.
Nurses can work from home, in a hospital, or even in a law firm. A similar career path where you can help people is to become a nurse practitioner, with a higher salary and extra responsibilities.
Recommended reading: 27 Best Side Hustles For Nurses To Make Extra Money
4. Personal trainer
If you like staying active and want to help others, becoming a personal trainer could be a great fit for you.
As a personal trainer, you’ll get to work with people every day, helping them achieve their fitness goals. It’s not just about showing exercises; it’s about motivating and guiding people to live healthier lives.
Here are some of the things that personal trainers do:
Create workout plans.
Show people how to exercise correctly.
Keep track of a client’s progress.
Teach clients about healthy lifestyle choices.
Personal trainers are found in places like gyms, fitness centers, and sometimes they can even come to your home. Some trainers lead group classes, while others give one-on-one sessions.
5. Occupational therapist
An occupational therapist (OT) helps people of all ages do different activities that are important for their daily lives, work, school, and leisure. Some examples of occupational therapy include:
Dressing – OTs help individuals in selecting appropriate clothing and developing strategies to independently dress themselves.
Eating – OTs may recommend adaptive equipment or techniques to help individuals with feeding difficulties.
Household chores – They provide strategies to make household chores more manageable for individuals with physical or cognitive limitations.
Job tasks – OTs help individuals develop skills and strategies to perform job duties effectively and safely.
Community integration – They support individuals in participating in community events, clubs, and social gatherings.
As you can see, OTs help people in so many ways.
They work in places like hospitals, schools, or even patients’ homes are common spots for occupational therapists.
6. School counselor
School counselors play a big part in guiding students toward their future.
They help with class schedules, give advice, or plan big steps like going to college or finding a job. This job is important because school counselors help students do their best and feel good about themselves.
They also help in other ways, such as helping students who are going through a hard time in life, like helping them with handling a mental health issue or even dealing with the passing of a parent. They are very much needed in all schools!
7. Substance abuse counselor
Substance abuse counselors help people fight addiction and get their lives back on track. Their job is important because they guide people through tough times, showing them how to stay away from drugs or alcohol and live a healthier life.
They meet with people and listen to their stories, teach them new ways of dealing with problems without using substances, and support them as they make changes to better their lives.
8. Physician
Being a doctor is a way to make a big impact in your community, as everyone knows.
Depending on the specialty, they can check your health, find out what’s wrong when you’re sick, and give you the right medicine to help you feel better.
Doctors are important because they help us when we’re sick and also keep us healthy. They listen to our concerns, offer comfort, and provide treatments. This makes a big impact on many people’s lives every single day.
9. Lawyer
A lawyer’s main job is to protect the legal rights of their clients. This means giving advice based on the law and, sometimes, defending your client in court.
A lawyer might work at a large law firm, for businesses, or for everyday people with different problems. Lawyers tend to specialize in one area of law, like helping injured people, family issues, working with businesses, traffic tickets, and so on.
10. Paramedic
Paramedics are the people who arrive first when there’s a medical emergency.
Their job is to take care of people who are hurt or very sick, right there on the spot or while they’re on the way to the hospital for further treatment. They give first aid and other medical care, stay calm under pressure, and drive an ambulance if needed.
11. Firefighter
Firefighters are trained to fight fires and keep people, buildings, and nature safe. They rescue people and animals from burning buildings, help at accident scenes, and teach the public about staying safe from fires.
This is a tough job that every community needs.
12. Nutritionist
If you like helping people and love everything about food and health, think about becoming a nutritionist! A nutritionist is someone who helps people eat better and live healthier lives.
A nutritionist is a health expert who knows a lot about food and how it affects our bodies. They look at what people eat, their health goals, and make personalized plans to help them eat better. Nutritionists teach people about healthy eating, help with meal plans, and give support to make lasting changes in lifestyle.
They work in different places like schools, hospitals, or their own offices to help people be healthier through good nutrition.
13. Pediatric sleep consultant
Getting enough sleep is super important for babies and their parents. But sometimes, parents have trouble making sure their baby sleeps well.
This can lead to some parents getting nearly no sleep, and it impacts their life, their job, and their mental health.
That’s where pediatric sleep experts come in handy. They know a lot about helping kids sleep better, which helps families have better nights. If you really like working with kids and want to help them, becoming a sleep coach could be a great career option for you.
This is an area that so many parents need so that they can continue living their lives.
For me, I have taken many tips from pediatric sleep consultants so that I could help my child sleep better, and so that I in turn could get sleep as well. These were life-changing tips!
Recommended reading: How To Become A Sleep Consultant And Make $10,000 Each Month
14. Dentist
Dentists work with teeth and gums, and they help keep your mouth healthy as well as fix problems when they come up.
If you have a cavity, they can fill it. Or if you have something more serious, they can fix it too. Dentists tell you how to take care of your teeth so you can keep them strong and avoid future problems.
15. Psychologist
Psychologists help people deal with their feelings and thoughts by listening to people and understanding their problems. They work in schools, offices, and sometimes even online.
They ask questions, do tests, and figure out the best way to help people feel better.
16. Police dispatcher
Being a police dispatcher is an extremely important job that helps people in crisis.
Dispatchers have an important job in keeping communities safe and making sure everything runs smoothly. They answer emergency calls when you call 911 and send out the right help.
17. Police officer
Police officers in law enforcement keep areas safe by stopping crime and making sure laws are followed. They patrol the streets, keep an eye out for any trouble, and if someone calls for help or there’s an accident, police officers are the first to arrive.
A police officer’s work is very important for everyone’s safety. They are trained to handle many kinds of situations.
Some police officers have a degree in criminal justice, but not all have college degrees.
18. Massage therapist
Massage therapists use their skills to help relax tight muscles and ease pain. They work in many places like spas, hospitals, or sports centers.
This is a career path where you can make others feel physically better, relieve stress, and feel relaxed.
19. Speech and language therapist
Speech therapists (also known as speech-language pathologists) help people of all ages overcome difficulties with communication, as well as swallowing disorders.
Speech therapists work with children and adults who face challenges with speaking and understanding others, help those who have trouble eating or swallowing due to health issues, and create fun and engaging exercises to improve clients’ speech and language skills.
Many, many people use speech-language pathologists these days, especially for young children, and it is such a needed career path right now. Many cities have very long waitlists because there simply are not enough speech therapists, so this can be a very helpful career choice to get into.
20. Rehabilitation specialist
Rehabilitation specialists give support to those who need a little extra help due to health troubles like injuries or mental health challenges.
A day in the life of a rehabilitation specialist could include working with kids or adults, helping them with their skills to live a good life (kind of like teaching and cheering on someone as they learn or remember how to do important daily stuff).
These jobs are often found in places like hospitals, private clinics, or community centers.
21. Caregiver
Caregiving roles are very important careers that help people who really need it.
Caregivers play an important role in the lives of those who need help due to age, sickness, or disability. They provide support and company, making a real difference every day.
Caregivers do things like cook meals, drive people places, or just talk to make someone’s day brighter.
22. Home health aide
A home health aide is somewhat similar to a caregiver. Caregivers and home health aides both help people who need support with daily activities because of sickness, disability, or getting older. However, caregivers usually do a wider range of tasks like keeping people company, driving people places, cooking, and doing chores.
Home health aides focus more on personal care, such as helping with bathing, dressing, and reminding about medications. Home health aides often get formal training and might work under a nurse or another healthcare worker, while caregivers might not have formal training and often work on their own or for agencies.
Home health aides have an important job where they help people who need extra care to live comfortably in their homes. People like seniors or those with disabilities count on them to be there for them.
23. Translator
Translators connect people who speak different languages, and this job is important because they help people understand each other.
Translators work in many places. Some work in hospitals, making sure doctors and patients understand one another. Others translate books or websites, so everyone can enjoy stories or information, no matter what language they speak.
Many translation jobs let you work from home. Some jobs are full-time, and some are part-time. You can find what fits your life.
Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text And Make Money
24. Environmental engineer
Environmental engineers figure out how to keep nature clean and safe. They sometimes work on projects that prevent pollution or create plans to fix damage that’s already been done, like cleaning up oil spills.
25. Pharmacist
Pharmacists know all about medicine, fill doctors’ prescriptions for patients, and explain how to take the medicine safely. This is a job that helps people because people need medicine in order to feel better.
Pharmacists work in pharmacies, drugstores, clinics, and hospitals.
26. Optometrist
Optometrists are eye doctors that help people see better. They check your eyes, find out if you need glasses or contacts, and can spot eye troubles before they become a bigger issue.
Eyes are important, of course, and so this is a job that definitely helps people.
27. Midwife
Becoming a midwife might be a great job for you if you enjoy helping people and have an interest in healthcare. Midwives are healthcare professionals who help women before, during, and after they have a baby.
Midwives work in different places, such as in a hospital, in a clinic, or visiting moms at their homes.
I had a midwife and doctor team for my pregnancy, and the midwife was amazing. She made me feel comfortable and was very friendly and calming.
28. Conservationist
Conservationists get to spend their days outdoors, helping plants and animals survive and stay healthy. They research and learn about different species and find ways for humans to live alongside them without causing harm.
The planet is home to incredible animals and places, but some are at risk. Conservationists help protect these natural wonders and make sure there are plenty of wild areas for animals to thrive in. They also work to keep the air and water clean for everyone to enjoy.
29. Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists are important in preventing and treating oral diseases. It’s more than just cleaning teeth.
They also teach patients how to take care of their mouth, show them the right way to brush and floss, and help them understand why oral health is so important.
30. Blogger
Okay, so I realize that this option is not like any of the rest.
But, I have personally helped thousands of people over the years with my blog, so I think being a blogger definitely helps people. I have received many emails and letters from readers who have said that I helped them pay off their debt, stop living paycheck to paycheck, reach retirement, and more.
With a blog, you can help people understand different topics, learn actionable tips, get motivated to reach their goals, and more.
If you enjoy writing and sharing stories or expertise, becoming a blogger might be right up your alley. A blogger creates content for a blog, which is an online space for posting thoughts, knowledge, and insights.
Your blog can become a helpful resource on topics you’re passionate about. Whether it’s cooking, personal finance, or even traveling, your words could be valuable to someone else.
I started Making Sense of Cents back in 2011. Since then, my blog has made over $5,000,000.
I didn’t plan to make money when I started the blog. It was just a way for me to keep track of my own money journey. At first, I didn’t even know people could make money from blogging or how to make a successful blog!
But after only six months, I started earning money from my blog.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find jobs that help people.
What is the best career to help others?
The best careers to help others include becoming a social worker, teacher, nurse, therapist, counselor, and firefighter.
What job helps people with their money?
Financial planners or advisors help people manage their money effectively. They provide advice on investments, savings, and budgeting to help individuals achieve their financial goals and secure their future financial stability.
What job can I do to make people happy?
Many of the jobs above can help people become happy, such as being a teacher, personal trainer, school counselor, nutritionist, pediatric sleep consultant, psychologist, and massage therapist.
What are some jobs that help people’s mental health?
Mental health counselors and therapists give support and treatment to people dealing with mental illnesses. They play an important part in improving their clients’ emotional and psychological well-being.
What are some creative jobs that help others?
Art therapists help people deal with stress, trauma, or sickness by using creative activities. They combine the healing power of art with counseling techniques to support healing and personal development.
What are jobs that help people in crisis?
Jobs that help people in crisis include substance abuse counselors, social workers, registered nurses, and art therapists.
What are jobs helping others without a degree?
A bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree is not required for all jobs that help people. For example, home health aides and personal care aides help people with daily tasks and give companionship. Typically, formal education is not required, but training and a caring personality are important to actually help people.
Best Jobs That Help People – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best jobs that help people.
When you think about jobs that help others, you might think of social work or healthcare right away.
But there’s a wide range of options, including jobs in teaching, therapy, public service, and even technical fields like translation or environmental engineering.
Each of these jobs is important for making our community better and healthier, often by working directly with people to make their lives better. These roles give more than just a paycheck – they give you the satisfaction of knowing that your work helps people outside of the office too.
What do you think are the best jobs that help people and pay well?
Welcome to the vibrant city of Reno, NV, where the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the bustling cityscape. Known for its lively entertainment scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving arts community, Reno offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. So whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Reno or a cozy home for rent in one of the surrounding neighborhoods, you’ve come to the right place.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll cut to the chase, breaking down the pros and cons of moving to Reno. Let’s get started and see what awaits in this vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Silver State.
Pros of living in Reno
1. Outdoor recreation
Reno, NV is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its close proximity to Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Residents can enjoy a wide range of activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and water sports. The city’s beautiful parks and trails also offer opportunities for biking, camping, and rock climbing, making it an ideal location for those who love to stay active and explore the great outdoors.
2. Thriving arts and culture scene
Reno boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. The Nevada Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art. While the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of live performances, including theater, dance, and music. The city also hosts several annual art and music festivals, providing residents with ample opportunities to engage with the local creative community.
3. No state income tax
One of the major advantages of living in Reno is the absence of state income tax. This can significantly impact residents’ overall financial well-being, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned money. The lack of state income tax can make a noticeable difference in the cost of living and provide an attractive incentive for individuals considering a move to the area.
4. Growing job market
Reno has experienced a surge in economic growth and job opportunities in recent years, particularly in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. The city’s business-friendly environment and strategic location have attracted major companies, leading to an increase in employment prospects for residents. The growing job market makes Reno an appealing destination for professionals seeking career advancement and stability.
5. Affordable housing options
Compared to other major cities in the region, Reno offers relatively affordable housing options, making it an attractive choice for individuals looking to purchase a home or rent an apartment. The average rent for apartments in Reno, is between $1,162 and $1,747 in 2024. The diverse range of neighborhoods and housing styles provides residents with various choices to suit their preferences and budget, contributing to a more accessible and inclusive housing market.
6. Close-knit community vibe
Reno is known for its friendly and close-knit community vibe, where residents often feel a strong sense of belonging and connection. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and active neighborhood associations foster a supportive environment, encouraging social interaction and collaboration among residents. This sense of community can enhance the overall quality of life and contribute to a fulfilling living experience in Reno.
7. Access to higher education
Reno is home to the University of Nevada, Reno, a renowned institution that offers a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities. The presence of a reputable university enhances the city’s educational landscape, providing residents with access to quality higher education and lifelong learning resources. Additionally, the university contributes to the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of the community, enriching the overall living experience in Reno.
Cons of living in Reno
1. Limited public transportation options
One of the challenges of living in Reno is the limited public transportation options. With a transit score of 24, this can make it difficult for residents who rely on alternative modes of transportation. The city’s public transit system is not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, and the reliance on personal vehicles may pose challenges for individuals seeking more sustainable and convenient commuting alternatives.
2. Seasonal weather extremes
Reno experiences seasonal weather extremes, with hot summers and cold winters, as well as occasional droughts and heavy snowfall. The fluctuating climate conditions can impact residents’ daily routines and outdoor activities, requiring them to adapt to the changing weather patterns and prepare for potential environmental challenges throughout the year.
3. Limited diversity in dining options
While Reno offers a variety of dining establishments, the city may have limited diversity in culinary experiences compared to larger urban centers. Residents looking for a wide range of international cuisines and gourmet dining options may find the local restaurant scene relatively limited, potentially impacting their culinary exploration and dining preferences.
4. Traffic congestion
Reno has experienced an increase in traffic congestion due to population growth and ongoing development. The city’s infrastructure may face challenges in accommodating the rising number of vehicles on the road, leading to potential delays and longer commute times for residents. Addressing traffic congestion and improving transportation infrastructure are ongoing considerations for the city’s urban planning and development efforts.
5. Limited cultural diversity
While Reno has a rich arts and culture scene, the city may have limited cultural diversity compared to larger metropolitan areas. Residents seeking a more diverse and multicultural environment may find the local community relatively homogenous, potentially impacting their exposure to different cultural traditions and perspectives.
6. Impact of tourism on local economy
Reno’s reliance on tourism as a major economic driver can have both positive and negative implications for residents. While tourism contributes to the city’s vibrant entertainment and hospitality industries, it may also lead to seasonal fluctuations in employment opportunities and increased demand for resources, impacting the local economy and infrastructure.
Iconic tourist areas such as the Reno Arch and the National Automobile Museum draw visitors year-round, stimulating economic activity but also posing challenges for local residents.
7. Cost of living increases
As Reno continues to experience growth and development, the cost of living in the city has been on the rise. Factors such as housing demand, property values, and overall market trends can contribute to cost of living increases, potentially impacting residents’ financial planning and budgeting. Managing the rising cost of living is an important consideration for individuals looking to establish long-term roots in Reno.