Kansas City, MO, is a welcoming city with its jazz history, Kansas City-style barbeque, art museums, and views of the Missouri River. The city is home to about 510,000 residents, so there’s no shortage of hidden gems and popular places to explore in Kansas City.
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Kansas City, but the average rent for a studio is $1,012, and a one-bedroom apartment is $1,210, you might be wondering where to find more affordable options. ApartmentGuide has done the research and found the 9 most affordable neighborhoods in Kansas City to rent this year.
9 Affordable Neighborhoods in Kansas City, MO
From historic Scarritt Point to charming Quality Hill, these Kansas City neighborhoods offer apartments within your budget. Let’s explore the hidden gems of Kansas City’s rental market.
1. Scarritt Point 2. Quality Hill 3. Santa Fe Hills 4. Waldo 5. Northeast Kansas City 6. Broadway Gillham 7. Northland 8. South Plaza 9. Country Club Plaza
Read on to see what each neighborhood has to offer its residents.
1. Scarritt Point
Average studio rent: $645 Average 1-bedroom rent: $695 Apartments for rent in Scarritt Point
Scarritt Point is the most affordable neighborhood in Kansas City. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $695, nearly half the price of the city’s average. There are plenty of reasons to love living in Scarritt Point, from attractions like the Kansas City Museum and the Colonnade to green spaces like Kessler Park and Cliff Drive Scenic Byway. If you’re looking for a taste of the neighborhood, there are a variety of local restaurants to explore along Independence Avenue, showcasing Kansas City’s food scene.
2. Quality Hill
Average studio rent: $702 Average 1-bedroom rent: $772 Apartments for rent in Quality Hill
Quality Hill is a historic area that’s just west of downtown Kansas City. This affordable neighborhood has lots of landmarks, such as The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Ermine Case Junior Park. It’s also close to popular attractions like the Kansas City Convention Center, T-Mobile Center, and the Kansas City Power and Light Building. Quality Hill is home to many local bars and restaurants, making it an awesome area to explore the city.
3. Santa Fe Hills
Average studio rent: $789 Average 1-bedroom rent: $827 Apartments for rent in Santa Fe Hills
With an average one-bedroom rent of $827, Santa Fe Hills is the third-most affordable neighborhood in Kansas City. This neighborhood is an excellent option to consider if you’re looking for a more residential feeling that’s farther from the city. There are plenty of green spaces nearby such as Legacy West Park and Indian Creek Greenway.
4. Waldo
Average studio rent: $789 Average 1-bedroom rent: $827 Apartments for rent in Waldo
Waldo is the fourth-most affordable neighborhood in Kansas City, located along the Kansas-Missouri border. This neighborhood is a great option if you’re looking for access to plenty of shops and restaurants. You can find a lot of places along West 75th Street and Wornal Road, like Waldo Pizza, Jovito’s Italian Café & Deli, and Bōru Asian Eatery.
5. Northeast Kansas City
Average studio rent: $789 Average 1-bedroom rent: $900 Apartments for rent in Northeast Kansas City
Just about 5 miles from downtown, Northeast Kansas City is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live close to downtown. It’s also a great area if you commute to work, as there are a few bus stops and many major roadways. Northeast Kansas City is a large area encompassing smaller neighborhoods, like Scarritt Point, so you’ll find plenty of attractions. Make sure to check out Knuckleheads, Kessler Park, and the Kansas City Museum, among many others.
6. Broadway Gillham
Average studio rent: $675 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,000 Apartments for rent in Broadway Gillham
Next up is Broadway Gillham, the sixth-most affordable neighborhood in Kansas City. Broadway Gillham has a charming residential atmosphere near lots of cafes and restaurants. Make sure to enjoy the outdoors at Penn Valley Park, visit the Money Museum, or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants along East 31st Street. There’s something for everyone living in Broadway Gillham.
7. Northland
Average studio rent: $765 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,082 Apartments for rent in Northland
North of downtown, Northland is the seventh-most affordable neighborhood in Kansas City. Northland has a friendly atmosphere and community feeling, with plenty of local cafes, restaurants, parks, and green spaces. Make sure to explore Hodge Park and Shoal Creek Living History Museum, Platte Purchase Park, and Amity Woods Nature Park. The neighborhood is also close to the Kansas City International Airport, making it easy to travel.
8. South Plaza
Average studio rent: $955 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,110 Apartments for rent in South Plaza
South Plaza is the eighth spot on our list, a quaint neighborhood just south of Brush Creek. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $1,110, making South Plaza a great option. It’s about 3 miles from Downtown, so you’ll have the best city life without living in the city center. It’s close to Country Club Plaza, a famous shopping center. You can also visit Jacob L. Loose Park or The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures if you decide to rent in South Plaza.
9. Country Club Plaza
Average studio rent: $1,000 Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,165 Apartments for rent in Country Club Plaza
A well-known Kansas City neighborhood, Country Club Plaza is the next area. Country Club Plaza is home to the popular Country Club Plaza shopping center, meaning there’s plenty to do throughout the week. You’ll find several historic buildings in Country Club Plaza and parks like Mill Creek Park, so make sure to explore the area’s charm. If you need to commute to work, several bus stops and freeways are nearby.
Methodology: Affordability based on whether a neighborhood has average studio and 1-bedroom rent prices under the city’s average. Average rental data from Rent.com in March 2024.
Missouri’s scenic landscapes, from the rolling Ozark Mountains to the expansive plains along the Mississippi River, offer a diverse array of natural beauty. Cities like St. Louis, with its iconic Gateway Arch and vibrant cultural scene, and Kansas City, renowned for its jazz heritage and barbecue, provide distinct living experiences. However, every state faces its challenges. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of living in Missouri, helping you gain insight into what awaits you.
Renting in Missouri snapshot
1. Pro: Rich cultural heritage
Missouri’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its diverse array of traditions, music, and cuisine. For example, the vibrant jazz scene in Kansas City harkens back to the city’s heyday as a hub for jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie. In St. Louis, the historic architecture of neighborhoods like Soulard and The Hill reflect the city’s immigrant past and vibrant cultural identity.
2. Con: Weather extremes in the winter
3. Pro: Affordable cost of living
4. Con: Limited public transportation options
Missouri grapples with limited transportation options, particularly outside major urban centers. Cities like Kirkwood is a great example, with a transit score of 22, meaning almost all errands require a car. Rural areas often lack comprehensive public transportation systems, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles for commuting and travel. This transportation gap can pose challenges for individuals without access to a car, impacting mobility and access to essential services.
5. Pro: Outdoor recreation
Missouri’s natural beauty extends far beyond its famous landmarks, encompassing diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas throughout the state. The Ozark Mountains, with their rugged terrain and lush forests, offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure, from rock climbing to cave exploring. Meanwhile, the majestic Missouri River winds its way through the landscape, providing idyllic settings for boating, kayaking, and birdwatching along its banks.
6. Con: High humidity
7. Pro: Delicious food
Missouri’s food scene is a blend of traditional barbecue, farm-to-table restaurants, and international cuisine. Kansas City, for example, is renowned for its barbecue, offering a variety of styles and flavors that attract food enthusiasts from all over. These barbecue traditions draw food lovers from all over to savor its mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and burnt ends.
8. Con: High allergy risks
Missouri’s fluctuating climate and diverse landscapes contribute to high allergy risks for residents and visitors. Pollen levels can soar during the spring and fall seasons, triggering allergies for those sensitive to environmental allergens. Additionally, mold spores thrive in the state’s humid conditions, posing further challenges for individuals prone to respiratory issues.
9. Pro: Fall foliage
Missouri’s fall foliage transforms the landscape into a breathtaking mix of stunning hues, painting the scenery with shades of crimson, gold, and amber. Places like the Shaw Nature Reserve and the Katy Trail burst into color, offering picturesque settings for leisurely strolls or scenic drives. Witnessing the stunning spectacle of autumn foliage against the backdrop of Missouri’s rolling hills is a great way to take in Missouri.
10. Con: Natural disasters
Missouri is prone to various natural disasters, including tornadoes, floods, and severe storms, which can pose significant risks to residents and communities. The state’s location in the Tornado Alley puts it at heightened vulnerability to tornado outbreaks, particularly during the spring and summer months.
11. Pro: Central location
Missouri’s central location in the United States offers residents convenient access to neighboring states and major cities in all directions. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Chicago, a road trip to the Rocky Mountains, or a visit to the bustling metropolis of Nashville, Missouri’s strategic position makes travel easy and efficient.
12. Con: Insects and pests
Missouri’s warm and humid climate provides an ideal habitat for a variety of insects and pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, and stink bugs, which can be nuisances for residents, especially during the summer months. The prevalence of these pests can lead to discomfort and pose health risks, such as transmitting diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
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 salary for pediatricians is $198,420, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are many different paths a doctor can take when it comes to choosing their medical specialty. Doctors who enjoy helping children feel their best and live healthy lives will likely find a lot of fulfillment in their jobs.
To learn more about how much a pediatrician makes a year, keep reading.
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What Are Pediatricians?
A pediatrician is a type of doctor who provides medical care to children ranging from infancy to adolescence. They specialize in diagnosing and treating injuries, developmental issues, and illnesses children commonly experience. From routine exams to issuing vaccines to providing medicine to sick children, pediatricians can help.
The path to becoming a pediatrician can be a long and expensive one. Typically, that means college, medical school, a residency, and possibly a fellowship. Medical school can easily cost $250,000 in tuition. It’s wise to consider this investment when pursuing a career as a pediatrician. Many doctors have a high amount of medical school debt when starting out.
Also, keep in mind that being a pediatrician involves interacting with children and their families all day. This may not therefore be the best job for introverts. 💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.
How Much Do Starting Pediatricians Make a Year?
While pediatricians can eventually earn very competitive salaries, like any job, they tend to earn less when they are entry-level. The lowest 10% of earners in this role make just $75,670, which is significantly lower than the median annual salary for all physicians of $198,420.
What is the Average Salary for a Pediatrician?
On average, a pediatrician can make a salary that is considerably higher than the American average for all jobs. Where a pediatrician chooses to work can greatly impact how much a pediatrician earns. This is a quick glance at the annual mean wage for a variety of workplaces where a pediatrician may be employed:
• Offices of physicians: $203,690
• General medical and surgical hospitals: $180,790
• Outpatient care centers: $232,420
• Colleges, universities, and professional schools: $84,810
• Specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals: $201,100.
Another factor that also affects pediatrician earning potential is the state the doctor works in. This table below highlights how average pediatrician salaries vary by state, with typical pay arranged from highest to lowest by location.
In addition, it shares how much a pediatrician’s hourly pay vs, salary is.
What is the Average Pediatrician Salary by State for 2023
State
Annual Salary
Monthly Pay
Weekly Pay
Hourly Wage
Oregon
$222,171
$18,514
$4,272
$106.81
Alaska
$221,079
$18,423
$4,251
$106.29
North Dakota
$221,044
$18,420
$4,250
$106.27
Massachusetts
$218,405
$18,200
$4,200
$105.00
Hawaii
$216,375
$18,031
$4,161
$104.03
Washington
$211,404
$17,617
$4,065
$101.64
Nevada
$209,030
$17,419
$4,019
$100.50
South Dakota
$208,910
$17,409
$4,017
$100.44
Colorado
$206,290
$17,190
$3,967
$99.18
Rhode Island
$205,782
$17,148
$3,957
$98.93
New York
$196,083
$16,340
$3,770
$94.27
Delaware
$193,921
$16,160
$3,729
$93.23
Vermont
$191,477
$15,956
$3,682
$92.06
Virginia
$191,115
$15,926
$3,675
$91.88
Illinois
$191,057
$15,921
$3,674
$91.85
Maryland
$187,806
$15,650
$3,611
$90.29
Nebraska
$183,797
$15,316
$3,534
$88.36
Missouri
$182,659
$15,221
$3,512
$87.82
California
$182,152
$15,179
$3,502
$87.57
South Carolina
$181,082
$15,090
$3,482
$87.06
Pennsylvania
$179,627
$14,968
$3,454
$86.36
New Jersey
$179,258
$14,938
$3,447
$86.18
Oklahoma
$177,994
$14,832
$3,422
$85.57
Maine
$177,900
$14,825
$3,421
$85.53
Wisconsin
$177,526
$14,793
$3,413
$85.35
North Carolina
$177,345
$14,778
$3,410
$85.26
New Hampshire
$174,681
$14,556
$3,359
$83.98
Idaho
$174,250
$14,520
$3,350
$83.77
Texas
$173,077
$14,423
$3,328
$83.21
Kentucky
$172,518
$14,376
$3,317
$82.94
Wyoming
$171,910
$14,325
$3,305
$82.65
Minnesota
$171,467
$14,288
$3,297
$82.44
Michigan
$170,777
$14,231
$3,284
$82.10
New Mexico
$170,501
$14,208
$3,278
$81.97
Indiana
$169,638
$14,136
$3,262
$81.56
Ohio
$166,670
$13,889
$3,205
$80.13
Arizona
$166,130
$13,844
$3,194
$79.87
Connecticut
$165,286
$13,773
$3,178
$79.46
Mississippi
$164,126
$13,677
$3,156
$78.91
Iowa
$163,921
$13,660
$3,152
$78.81
Montana
$163,627
$13,635
$3,146
$78.67
Arkansas
$163,030
$13,585
$3,135
$78.38
Alabama
$161,584
$13,465
$3,107
$77.68
Utah
$159,236
$13,269
$3,062
$76.56
Tennessee
$159,121
$13,260
$3,060
$76.50
Kansas
$154,538
$12,878
$2,971
$74.30
Georgia
$150,529
$12,544
$2,894
$72.37
Louisiana
$149,706
$12,475
$2,878
$71.97
West Virginia
$138,728
$11,560
$2,667
$66.70
Florida
$133,219
$11,101
$2,561
$64.05
Source: ZipRecruiter
Pediatrician Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits
Alongside earning a $100,000 salary or more, most pediatricians also receive superior employee benefits. If a pediatrician runs their own practice, they will need to supply themselves and their employees with these benefits.
Those who are employed by employers like hospitals or medical groups can expect to gain access to benefits like paid time off, health insurance, and retirement accounts. They may also have unique benefits like continuing education allowances and malpractice insurance coverage. 💡 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 Pediatrician Salary
The main advantage associated with competitive pay for pediatricians is that they are quite high. With a median salary of $198,420, pediatricians are greatly rewarded for their hard work.
However, they must pursue many years of higher education to earn that salary. Many young doctors struggle under the weight of their student loan payments. So, while this salary may seem high at first glance, much of it can go towards student loan debt initially.
It’s also worthwhile to consider work-life balance. Being a pediatrician and improving the health of children can be a very rewarding career, but it can also involve long, tiring hours and being on call for patients on nights and weekends. Medical problems and emergencies crop up all the time, so this is a factor to acknowledge.
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The Takeaway
Pediatricians can earn very high pay while making a big difference in the lives of their patients and their families. They do have to commit to many years of schooling and education to become a pediatrician, but once they do, they can earn a great living.
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FAQ
Can you make 100k a year as a pediatrician?
Most pediatricians make $100,000 a year or more, especially after gaining a few years of work experience. The median annual salary for a pediatrician is $198,420.
Do people like being a pediatrician?
Pursuing a career in pediatric medicine is a major commitment and those who are passionate about this field and patient care are likely to really enjoy their work. However, this role requires many hours of patient interaction a day, so even if someone finds the work fascinating, it won’t be a good fit for them if they are antisocial.
Is it hard to get hired as a pediatrician?
The main challenge in getting hired as a pediatrician surrounds not having the right credentials. Potential pediatricians must pursue medical school and any required medical licenses in order to find a job in this field, which is no easy feat.
Photo credit: iStock/alvarez
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As we head into peak home-buying season, signs of life have begun to spring up in the housing market.
Even so, still-high mortgage rates and home prices amid historically low housing stock continue to put homeownership out of reach for many.
Moreover, the National Association of Realtors agreed to a monumental $418 million settlement on March 15 following a verdict favoring home sellers in a class action lawsuit. Still subject to court approval, the settlement requires changes to broker commissions that will upend the buying and selling model that has been in place for years.
Housing Market Forecast for 2024
Elevated mortgage rates, out-of-reach home prices and record-low housing stock are the perennial weeds that experts say hopeful home buyers can expect to contend with this spring—and beyond.
“The housing market is likely to continue to face the dual affordability constraints of high home prices and elevated interest rates in 2024,” said Doug Duncan, senior vice president and chief economist at Fannie Mae, in an emailed statement. “Hotter-than-expected inflation data and strong payroll numbers are likely to apply more upward pressure to mortgage rates this year than we’d previously forecast.”
Despite ongoing affordability hurdles, Fannie Mae forecasts an increase in home sales transactions compared to last year. Experts also anticipate a slower rise in home prices this year compared to recent years, but price fluctuations will continue to vary regionally and depend strongly on local market supply.
U.S. home prices declined in January for the third consecutive month due to high borrowing costs, according to the latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Home Price Index. But prices year-over-year jumped 6%—the fastest annual rate since 2022.
Chief economist at First American Financial Corporation Mark Fleming predicts a “flat stretch” ahead.
“If the 2020-2021 housing market was too hot, then the 2023 market was probably too cold, but 2024 won’t yet be just right,” Fleming said in his 2024 forecast.
Will the Housing Market Finally Recover in 2024?
For a housing recovery to occur, several conditions must unfold.
“For the best possible outcome, we’d first need to see inventories of homes for sale turn considerably higher,” says Keith Gumbinger, vice president at online mortgage company HSH.com. “This additional inventory, in turn, would ease the upward pressure on home prices, leveling them off or perhaps helping them to settle back somewhat from peak or near-peak levels.”
And, of course, mortgage rates would need to cool off—which experts say is imminent despite rates edging back up toward 7%. For the week ending April 11, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate stood at 6.88%, according to Freddie Mac.
However, when mortgage rates finally go on the descent, Gumbinger says don’t hope they cool too quickly. Rapidly falling rates could create a surge of demand that wipes away any inventory gains, causing home prices to rebound.
“Better that rate reductions happen at a metered pace, incrementally improving buyer opportunities over a stretch of time, rather than all at once,” Gumbinger says.
He adds that mortgage rates returning to a more “normal” upper 4% to lower 5% range would also help the housing market, over time, return to 2014-2019 levels. Yet, Gumbinger predicts it could be a while before we return to those rates.
Nonetheless, Kuba Jewgieniew, CEO of Realty ONE Group, a real estate brokerage company, is optimistic about a recovery this year.
“[W]e’re definitely looking forward to a better housing market in 2024 as interest rates start to settle around 6% or even lower,” says Jewgieniew.
NAR Settlement Rocks the Residential Real Estate Industry
Following years of litigation, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) has agreed to pay $418 million to settle a series of antitrust lawsuits filed in 2019 on behalf of home sellers.
The plaintiffs claimed that the leading national trade association for real estate brokers and agents “conspired to require home sellers to pay the broker representing the buyer of their homes in violation of federal antitrust law.”
Though the landmark settlement is subject to court approval, most consider it a done deal.
The settlement requires NAR to enact new rules, including prohibiting offers of broker compensation on multiple listing services (MLS), the private databases that allow local real estate brokers to publish and share information about residential property listings. The rule is set to take effect in mid-July, once the settlement receives judge approval.
Moreover, sellers will no longer be required to pay buyer broker commissions and real estate agents participating in the MLS must establish written representation agreements with their buyer clients.
NAR denies any wrongdoing and maintains that its current policies benefit buyers and sellers. The organization believes it’s not liable for seller claims related to broker commissions, stating that it has never set commissions and that commissions have always been negotiable.
How Will the New Rules Impact the Buying and Selling Process?
Per the settlement’s terms, the costs associated with buying and selling a home are set to change dramatically.
“The primary things that will change are the decoupling of the seller commission and the buyer commission in the MLS,” says Rita Gibbs, a Realtor at Realty One Group Integrity in Tucson. “It’s gonna cause some chaos.”
While sellers will no longer be able to offer broker compensation in the MLS, there’s no rule prohibiting off-MLS negotiations. Because of this, Gibbs suspects buyers and sellers will continue offering broker compensation off the MLS.
The Department of Justice confirmed it will permit listing brokers to display compensation details on their websites. However, buyer agents will need to undergo the tedious task of visiting countless broker websites to find who’s offering what.
Michael Gorkowski, a Virginia-based real estate agent with Compass, is also trying to figure out how to manage the potential ruling.
“We often work with buyers for many months and sometimes years before they find exactly what they’re looking for,” Gorkowski says. “So in a case where a seller isn’t offering a co-broker commission, we will have to negotiate that the buyer pays an agreed-upon commission prior to starting their search.”
The Changes Will Impact These Home Buyers Most
“In the short term, it is absolutely going to injure buyers, especially FHA and VA buyers,” Gibbs says. “With rare exception, these buyers are not in a position to pay for their own agent.”
Gibbs says that if sellers don’t offer compensation, many buyers who can’t otherwise afford to pay a broker will choose to go unrepresented.
Gorkowski notes that veterans taking out VA loans face a unique challenge under the new rules. “[P]er the VA requirements, buyers cannot pay so it must be negotiated with the seller for now.”
As a result, NAR is calling on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to revise its policies prohibiting VA buyers from paying broker commissions. Even so, there’s skepticism that the federal government will be able to implement changes in time for the July deadline.
Gibbs and Gorkowski are among the many agents especially concerned about first-time home buyers. After July, first-time and VA buyers will be required to sign a buyer-broker agreement stating that they will compensate their broker—but Gibbs says many won’t have the means to do so.
In this situation, agents would likely only show buyers homes where sellers are offering compensation.
“This is a very troubling situation,” Gorkowski says.
Housing Inventory Forecast for 2024
With many homeowners “locked in” at ultra-low interest rates or unwilling to sell due to high home prices, demand continues to outpace housing supply—and likely will for a while—even as some homeowners may finally be forced to sell due to major life events such as divorce, job changes or a growing family.
“I don’t expect to see a meaningful increase in the supply of existing homes for sale until mortgage rates are back down in the low 5% range, so probably not in 2024,” says Rick Sharga, founder and CEO of CJ Patrick Company, a market intelligence and business advisory firm.
Housing stock remains near historic lows—especially entry-level supply—which has propped up demand and sustained ultra-high home prices. Here’s what the latest home values look like around the country.
Yet, some hopeful housing stock signs have begun to sprout:
Existing inventory is showing signs of loosening as impatient buyers and sellers have begun to accept the reality of mortgage rates oscillating between 6% and 7%.
Home-builder outlook also continues to get sunnier, trending back up amid declining mortgage rates and better building conditions.
The most recent National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI), which tracks builder sentiment, saw a fourth consecutive monthly rise, surpassing a crucial threshold with an increase from 48 to 51 in March. A reading of 50 or above means more builders see good conditions ahead for new construction.
At the same time, new single-family building permits ticked up 1% in February—the 13th consecutive monthly increase—according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Residential Real Estate Stats: Existing, New and Pending Home Sales
Though some housing market data indicates signs of growth are in store this spring home-buying season, persistently high mortgage rates may hinder activity from fully flourishing.
Here’s what the latest home sales data has to say.
Existing-Home Sales
Existing-home sales came to life in February, shooting up 9.5% from the month before, according to the latest data from the NAR. Sales dipped 3.3% from a year ago.
Experts attribute the monthly jump to a bump in inventory.
“Additional housing supply is helping to satisfy market demand,” said Lawrence Yun, chief economist at NAR, in the report.
Existing inventory rose 5.9%—logging 1.07 million unsold homes at the end of February. However, there are still only 2.9 months of inventory at the current sales pace. Most experts consider a balanced market falling between four and six months.
Meanwhile, existing home prices continue to soar to unprecedented heights, reaching $384,500, which marks the eighth consecutive month of yearly price increases and a February median home price record.
New Home Sales
Sales of newly constructed single-family houses ticked down by a nominal 0.3% compared to January, but outpaced February 2023 sales by 5.9%, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau and HUD data.
Amid a high percentage of homeowners still locked in to low mortgage rates, home builders have been picking up the slack.
“New construction continues to be an outsized share of the housing inventory,” said Dr. Lisa Sturtevant, chief economist at Bright MLS, in an emailed statement.
Sturtevant notes that declining new home prices are coming amid a recent trend of builders introducing smaller and more affordable homes to the market.
The median price for a new home in February was $400,500, down 7.6% from a year ago.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Pending Home Sales
NAR’s Pending Homes Sales Index rose 1.6% in February from the month prior even as mortgage rates approached 7% by the end of the month. Pending transactions declined 7% year-over-year.
A pending home sale marks the point in the home sales transaction when the buyer and seller agree on price and terms. Pending home sales are considered a leading indicator of future closed sales.
The Midwest and South saw monthly transaction gains while the Northeast and West saw declines due to affordability challenges in those higher-cost regions.
“While modest sales growth might not stir excitement, it shows slow and steady progress from the lows of late last year,” said Yun, in the report.
Ongoing Affordability Challenges Could Throw Cold Water on Spring Home-Buying Hopes
Though down from its 2023 high of 7.79%, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in 2024 remains well over 6% amid rising home values. As a result, home buyers continue to face affordability challenges.
According to data from its first-quarter 2024 U.S. Home Affordability Report, property data provider Attom found that median-priced single-family homes remain less affordable than the historical average in over 95% of U.S. counties.
For one, the data uncovered that expenses are eating up more than 32% of the average national wage. Common lending guidelines require monthly mortgage payments, property taxes and homeowners insurance to comprise 28% or less of your gross income.
At the same time, home prices and homeownership expenses continue to outpace wage growth.
Consequently, the latest expense-to-wage ratio is hovering at one of the highest points over the past decade, according to the Attom report, despite some slight affordability improvements over the last two quarters.
“Affording a home remains a financial stretch, or a pipe dream, for so many households,” said Rob Barber, CEO at Attom.
Pro Tips for Buyers and Sellers
Here are some expert tips to increase your chances for an optimal outcome in this tight housing market.
Pro Tips for Buying in Today’s Real Estate Market
Hannah Jones, a senior economic research analyst at Realtor.com, offers this expert advice to aspiring buyers:
Know your budget. Instead of focusing on price, figure out how much you can afford as a monthly payment. Your monthly housing payment is influenced by the price of the home, your down payment, mortgage rate, loan term, home insurance and property taxes.
Be flexible about home size and location. Perhaps your budget is sufficient for a small home in your perfect neighborhood, or a larger, newer home further out. Understanding your priorities and having some flexibility can help you move quickly when a suitable home enters the market.
Keep an eye on the market where you hope to buy. Determine the area’s available inventory and price levels. Also, pay attention to how quickly homes sell. Not only will you be tuned in when something great hits the market, you can feel more confident moving forward with purchasing a well-priced home. A real estate agent can help with this.
Don’t be discouraged. Purchasing a home is one of the largest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Approaching the market confidently, armed with good information and grounded expectations will take you far. Don’t let the hustle of the market convince you to buy something that’s not in your budget, or not right for your lifestyle.
Pro Tips for Selling in Today’s Real Estate Market
Gary Ashton, founder of The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage, has this expert advice for sellers:
Research comparable home prices in your area. Sellers need to have the most up-to-date pricing intel on comparable homes selling in their market. Know the market competition and price the home competitively. In addition, understand that in some price points it’s a buyer’s market—you’ll need to be prepared to make some concessions.
Make sure your home is in top-notch shape. Homes need to be in great condition to compete and create a strong “online curb appeal.” Well-maintained homes and attractive front yards are major features that buyers look for.
Work with a local real estate agent. A real estate agent or team with a strong local marketing presence and access to major real estate portals can offer significant value and help you land a great deal.
Don’t put off issues that require attention. Prepare the home by making any repairs or improvements. Removing any objections that buyers may see helps focus the buyer on the positive attributes of the home.
Will the Housing Market Crash in 2024?
Despite some areas of the country experiencing monthly price declines, the likelihood of a housing market crash—a rapid drop in unsustainably high home prices due to waning demand—remains low for 2024.
“[T]he record low supply of houses on the market protects against a market crash,” says Tom Hutchens, executive vice president of production at Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions, a non-QM lender.
Moreover, experts point out that today’s homeowners stand on much more secure footing than those coming out of the 2008 financial crisis, with many borrowers having substantial home equity.
“In 2024, I expect we’ll see home appreciation take a step back but not plummet,” says Orphe Divounguy, senior macroeconomist at Zillow Home Loans.
This outlook aligns with what other housing market watchers expect.
“Comerica forecasts that national house prices will rise 2.9% in 2024,” said Bill Adams, chief economist at Comerica Bank, in an emailed statement.
Divounguy also notes that several factors, including Millennials entering their prime home-buying years, wage growth and financial wealth are tailwinds that will sustain housing demand in 2024.
Even so, with fewer homes selling, Dan Hnatkovskyy, co-founder and CEO of NewHomesMate, a marketplace for new construction homes, sees a price collapse within the realm of possibility, especially in markets where real estate investors scooped up numerous properties.
“If something pushes that over the edge, the consequences could be severe,” said Hnatkovskyy, in an emailed statement.
Will Foreclosures Increase in 2024?
In February, total foreclosure filings were down 1% from the previous month but up 8% from a year ago, according to Attom.
“These trends could signify evolving financial landscapes for homeowners, prompting adjustments in market strategies and lending practices,” said Barber, in a report.
Lenders began foreclosure on 22,575 properties in February, up 4% from the previous month and 11% from a year ago. Meanwhile, real estate-owned properties, or REOs, which are homes unsold at foreclosure auctions and taken over by lenders, spiked year-over-year in three states: South Carolina (up 51%), Missouri (up 50%) and Pennsylvania (up 46%).
Despite foreclosure activity trending up nationally and certain areas of the country seeing notable annual increases in REOs, experts generally don’t expect to see a wave of foreclosures in 2024.
“Foreclosure activity is still only at about 60% of pre-pandemic levels … and isn’t likely to be back to 2019 numbers until sometime in mid-to-late 2024,” says Sharga.
The biggest reasons for this, Sharga explains, are the strength of the economy—we’re still seeing low unemployment and steady wage growth—along with excellent loan quality.
Massive home price growth in homeowner equity over the past few years has also helped reduce foreclosures.
Sharga says that some 80% of today’s homeowners have more than 20% equity in their property. So, while there may be more foreclosure starts in 2024—due in part to Covid-era mortgage relief programs phasing out—foreclosure auctions and lender repossessions should remain below 2019 levels.
When Will Be the Best Time To Buy a Home in 2024?
Buying a house—in any market—is a highly personal decision. Because homes represent the largest single purchase most people will make in their lifetime, it’s crucial to be in a solid financial position before diving in.
Use a mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly housing costs based on your down. But if you’re trying to predict what might happen next year, experts say this is probably not the best home-buying strategy.
“The housing market—like so many other markets—is almost impossible to time,“ Divounguy says. “The best time for prospective buyers is when they find a home that they like, that meets their family’s current and foreseeable needs and that they can afford.”
Gumbinger agrees it’s hard to tell would-be homeowners to wait for better conditions.
“More often, it seems the case that home prices generally keep rising, so the goalposts for amassing a down payment keep moving, and there’s no guarantee that tomorrow’s conditions will be all that much better in the aggregate than today’s.”
Divounguy says “getting on the housing ladder” is worthwhile to begin building equity and net worth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will declining mortgage rates cause home prices to rise?
Declining mortgage rates will likely incentivize would-be buyers anxious to own a home to jump into the market. Expect this increased demand amid today’s tight housing supply to put upward pressure on home prices.
What will happen if the housing market crashes?
Most experts do not expect a housing market crash in 2024 since many homeowners have built up significant equity in their homes. The issue is primarily an affordability crisis. High interest rates and inflated home values have made purchasing a home challenging for first-time homebuyers.
Is it smart to buy real estate before a recession?
If you’re in a financial position to buy a home you plan to live in for the long term, it won’t matter when you buy it because you will live in it through economic highs and lows. However, if you are looking to buy real estate as a short-term investment, it will come with more risk if you buy at the height before a recession.
The median annual salary for detectives is $52,120 for the most recent year reviewed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This can be an exciting career for many people. Is there anything quite as satisfying as solving a big mystery? For anyone who is passionate about putting the puzzle pieces together until they discover the truth, working as a detective could be a dream job.
Read on to learn more about this career path. In addition to how much a detective makes a year, you can find out about the responsibilities and benefits involved.
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What Are Detectives?
Working as a private detective involves searching and piecing together financial, legal, and personal matters to help get to the root of an unanswered question. For example, private detectives can help find missing persons or investigate cybercrimes. Here’s a quick breakdown of some common on-the-job responsibilities that detectives tackle on a daily basis:
• Conduct interviews to help collect information
• Pursue evidence
• Review civil judgments and criminal history
• Plan and execute surveillance
• Search records (court, public, and online).
Some private detectives work for themselves and offer their services to a variety of clients, whereas others work for businesses, like law firms.
Regardless of where one works, being a detective can involve a good number of interviews and interpersonal interaction. For this reason, it may not be a good job for antisocial people. 💡 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 Detectives Make a Year?
In the early days of their career, detectives can expect to earn less until they gain more experience and a strong reputation for their sleuthing skills. When it comes to entry-level detective work, competitive pay can be fairly low. The lowest 10% of detective earners made less than $33,710 per year.
However, there is considerable room for improvement when it comes to salary for this role. The highest 10% earn more than $92,660 annually. This indicates that it can be possible to earn $100,000 per year as a detective.
Recommended: Work-at-Home Jobs for Retirees
What is the Average Salary for a Detective?
Some detectives earn an annual salary (a median of $52,120), but others earn an hourly wage. How much does a detective make an hour? The median hourly wage is $25.06.
How much someone earns on average working as a detective can vary based on where they live and the industry they work in. When it comes to working in different industries, these are the median annual wages for detectives in a few different industries for the most recent year available:
• Government: $64,220
• Professional, scientific, and technical services: $61,280
• Investigation, guard, and armored car services: $47,280
• Retail trade: $37,290
The state someone works in also plays a big role in their earning potential. The following table highlights how average detective wages can vary by state, with salaries listed from highest to lowest.
What is the Average Detective Salary by State for 2023
State
Annual Salary
Monthly Pay
Weekly Pay
Hourly Wage
Wisconsin
$68,202
$5,683
$1,311
$32.79
Alaska
$66,013
$5,501
$1,269
$31.74
Massachusetts
$65,834
$5,486
$1,266
$31.65
Oregon
$65,791
$5,482
$1,265
$31.63
New Mexico
$65,593
$5,466
$1,261
$31.54
North Dakota
$65,592
$5,466
$1,261
$31.53
Washington
$65,380
$5,448
$1,257
$31.43
Minnesota
$64,657
$5,388
$1,243
$31.09
Hawaii
$64,277
$5,356
$1,236
$30.90
Ohio
$63,203
$5,266
$1,215
$30.39
Colorado
$62,621
$5,218
$1,204
$30.11
Nevada
$62,417
$5,201
$1,200
$30.01
South Dakota
$61,992
$5,166
$1,192
$29.80
New York
$61,597
$5,133
$1,184
$29.61
Iowa
$61,016
$5,084
$1,173
$29.33
Rhode Island
$60,938
$5,078
$1,171
$29.30
Connecticut
$60,392
$5,032
$1,161
$29.03
Tennessee
$60,347
$5,028
$1,160
$29.01
Vermont
$60,038
$5,003
$1,154
$28.86
Utah
$59,824
$4,985
$1,150
$28.76
Mississippi
$59,304
$4,942
$1,140
$28.51
Delaware
$59,138
$4,928
$1,137
$28.43
Virginia
$58,393
$4,866
$1,122
$28.07
Illinois
$57,890
$4,824
$1,113
$27.83
Maryland
$57,300
$4,775
$1,101
$27.55
New Jersey
$56,643
$4,720
$1,089
$27.23
California
$56,576
$4,714
$1,088
$27.20
Louisiana
$56,450
$4,704
$1,085
$27.14
Pennsylvania
$56,431
$4,702
$1,085
$27.13
Nebraska
$56,157
$4,679
$1,079
$27.00
Kansas
$55,812
$4,651
$1,073
$26.83
Missouri
$55,599
$4,633
$1,069
$26.73
Maine
$55,350
$4,612
$1,064
$26.61
South Carolina
$55,077
$4,589
$1,059
$26.48
New Hampshire
$54,828
$4,569
$1,054
$26.36
Oklahoma
$54,383
$4,531
$1,045
$26.15
Idaho
$54,051
$4,504
$1,039
$25.99
Wyoming
$54,049
$4,504
$1,039
$25.99
North Carolina
$53,940
$4,495
$1,037
$25.93
Texas
$53,624
$4,468
$1,031
$25.78
Indiana
$53,401
$4,450
$1,026
$25.67
Arizona
$52,297
$4,358
$1,005
$25.14
Kentucky
$52,131
$4,344
$1,002
$25.06
Michigan
$51,864
$4,322
$997
$24.94
Montana
$51,509
$4,292
$990
$24.76
Alabama
$50,866
$4,238
$978
$24.46
Arkansas
$49,398
$4,116
$949
$23.75
Georgia
$47,386
$3,948
$911
$22.78
West Virginia
$43,583
$3,631
$838
$20.95
Florida
$41,937
$3,494
$806
$20.16
Source: ZipRecruiter
💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.
Detective Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits
Detectives who work for businesses such as large corporations or law firms on a full-time basis often receive employer-sponsored benefits as a part of their compensation package. These benefits can include paid time off, retirement accounts with employer contribution matches, and health insurance.
However, many detectives work on a part-time basis or are self-employed and then are on the hook for supplying their own benefits which can be quite expensive.
Recommended: The Highest Paying Jobs in the US
Pros and Cons of Detective Salary
Detectives can earn a very good salary, and the work can be very interesting.
However, the tradeoff may not be worth it for some. Working as a detective often involves long and varied hours due to the nature of their work — especially when they are conducting surveillance. Some people may find that working on weekends, nights, or holidays isn’t worth the salary. It simply may not align with their career goals and the desired work-life balance.
The Takeaway
Skilled detectives stand to earn a lot of money (close to six figures) as they work their way up in their industry. This can be a very exciting, but also extremely demanding role.
With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.
FAQ
Can you make 100k a year as a detective?
It is possible to make $100,000 a year or more as a detective. The top 10% of earners in this field make $92,660 or more per year. As a detective gains years of experience and improves their skills, they can expect to earn more competitive pay.
Do people like being a detective?
Many people pursue a career as a detective because they are passionate about the work they do and enjoy a lot of satisfaction from their job. It’s worth noting that this job can require a lot of personal interactions and may not be the best fit for anyone who is antisocial.
Is it hard to get hired as a detective?
Getting hired as a detective can be competitive, but there is currently anticipated to be 3,800 openings for private detectives each year until 2032. There is also a projected 6% growth in employment opportunities, so someone with the right qualifications should be able to find a job in this field.
Photo credit: Andrii Lysenko
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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.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
If you caused a major car accident and the other driver sued you to cover their medical costs, would you have enough liability insurance to pay the damages? In a financially disastrous situation like this one, an umbrella insurance policy could help.
Umbrella insurance offers extra liability coverage beyond what’s on the policies you already have, such as auto or homeowners insurance. But there can be big differences from one umbrella policy to the next, including coverage details and maximum limits. Here’s how to find the best umbrella insurance for you.
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How to find the best umbrella insurance
When comparing umbrella insurance options, consider the following questions.
What’s covered?
A standard umbrella insurance policy will cover injuries or property damage you cause to others, as well as your legal defense for such claims. But the nitty-gritty details may vary between policies.
For example, if your idea of a fun vacation is renting a Jet Ski and hitting the water, know that some umbrella insurers won’t cover these kinds of personal watercraft. The best umbrella insurance coverage for you will include your hobbies and other activities.
Many umbrella policies offer coverage anywhere in the world, which could be useful if you often travel overseas. But some policies may pay only for lawsuits brought in the U.S. or Canada.
You might also see some insurers offering excess liability policies, which tend to be similar but not identical to umbrella policies. Excess liability policies essentially boost the limits on the coverage you already have, while umbrella policies may also offer extra types of coverage that aren’t available on your existing policies.
An independent insurance agent can help talk you through exactly what’s covered and what isn’t by each policy you’re considering.
How much underlying coverage is required?
Insurers often require a minimum amount of liability insurance on your underlying policies before you can buy umbrella insurance.
For instance, to add umbrella coverage to your car insurance, your policy may need to have $250,000 of bodily injury liability coverage and $100,000 of property damage liability coverage. To add umbrella coverage to a homeowners policy, you often need $300,000 of liability insurance.
If your existing policies fall short of these limits, increasing your coverage amounts will likely raise your premiums.
Can you buy your policies from different companies?
Before they sell you an umbrella policy, many insurers require that you carry your auto, homeowners, condo or renters insurance with them, too. RLI and Auto-Owners Insurance are two companies that offer stand-alone umbrella insurance policies, meaning you could carry your auto or homeowners coverage with someone else.
How much coverage should you buy?
Another factor to look at when shopping is the maximum limit a company offers. Most umbrella policies stop at $5 million, but some go higher. Farmers, for instance, offers umbrella insurance up to $10 million in most states, while Chubb‘s umbrella limits go up to $100 million.
When choosing your coverage limit, add up the value of your assets, such as savings, investments and real estate. These are things you could lose if someone files a lawsuit against you. Consider choosing an umbrella liability limit at least high enough to cover all your assets.
Where to buy umbrella insurance
Many major carriers offer umbrella insurance. A good first step is to call your current auto and home insurer and request an umbrella insurance quote. Remember that you may have to increase the coverage limits on your underlying policies, which could raise your total cost.
If you have coverage with multiple companies, ask how much it would cost to move all your policies to that company, including the new umbrella. See if a bundling discount could reduce the total cost of your premiums.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Take this opportunity to shop around. Since you’re adding a new type of insurance and potentially raising the coverage limits on your existing policies, you may find that your current insurer no longer offers the best value.
We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies before making a decision. An independent agent or broker can shop around on your behalf and explain the coverage differences between policies.
Umbrella insurance companies to consider
Below are some of the major umbrella insurance companies in the U.S., along with details about their coverage limits and eligibility requirements. Keep in mind that smaller regional insurers may also offer solid coverage at an affordable price. A local insurance agent can help you find them.
Allstate
Coverage limits: $1 million to $5 million.
States available: Washington, D.C., and all states except Alaska, Massachusetts, Nevada and New York.
Eligibility requirements: You must have underlying policies with at least the following limits:
$300,000 of liability coverage.
$250,000 bodily injury liability per person.
$500,000 bodily injury liability per accident.
$100,000 property damage liability.
$500,000 combined single limit.
Amica
Coverage limits: $1 million to $5 million.
States available: Washington, D.C., and all states except Hawaii.
Eligibility requirements: Requirements vary by state. Generally, your underlying policies must meet the following minimums:
$300,000 of liability coverage.
$250,000 bodily injury liability per person.
$500,000 bodily injury liability per accident.
$50,000 property damage liability.
$500,000 combined single limit.
Auto-Owners
Coverage limits: $1 million to $5 million, with additional limits potentially available.
States available: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia and Wisconsin.
Eligibility requirements: Eligibility requirements differ depending on underlying policy, underlying carrier and where you live.
Chubb
Coverage limits: $1 million to $100 million.
States available: All 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Eligibility requirements: Minimum limits for underlying policies vary by state.
Note: Chubb’s policy is technically an excess liability policy, not an umbrella policy.
Farmers
Coverage limits: $1 million to $10 million, except in Florida and California, where the maximum limit is $5 million.
States available: All states except Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.
Eligibility requirements: Farmers must insure at least one car with bodily injury liability limits of at least $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident. You can insure your home with any company as long as it has at least $300,000 of liability coverage.
Geico
Insurance type
NerdWallet star rating
Auto insurance
Homeowners insurance
Coverage limits: $500,000 to $10 million. (Limits above $2 million require additional eligibility requirements.)
States available: Washington, D.C., and all states except Alabama, California, Georgia, Montana, Nevada, New York, Texas and Washington. In the states where Geico doesn’t currently sell umbrella insurance, it can offer a policy through a partner carrier.
Eligibility requirements: You generally must have all vehicles insured with Geico and have the following minimum coverage limits on any relevant underlying policies:
Auto, RV, motorcycle or golf cart
$300,000 bodily injury liability per person.
$300,000 bodily injury liability per accident.
$100,000 property damage liability.
Property (homeowners, renters, etc.)
$300,000 of liability coverage.
Boat (26 feet or longer, or over 50 horsepower)
$300,000 of liability coverage.
Boat (under 26 feet with motor of 50 horsepower or less)
$100,000 of liability coverage.
Liberty Mutual
Coverage limits: $1 million to $5 million.
States available: All states except California, Georgia, Louisiana and New Jersey. Coverage limits and requirements vary by state.
Eligibility requirements: You generally must have a Liberty Mutual auto policy with at least the limits below, but requirements may vary by state. The other policy types are optional, but if you have any of them, the liability limit must be at least $100,000.
$250,000 bodily injury liability per person.
$500,000 bodily injury liability per accident.
$50,000 property damage liability.
$500,000 combined single limit.
Homeowners, dwelling, watercraft, farmer’s personal liability or general personal liability
$100,000 of liability coverage.
Nationwide
Coverage limits: $1 million to $5 million.
States available: Washington, D.C., and all states except Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana and Oklahoma.
Eligibility requirements: It depends on where you live. In most cases, all vehicles and your primary home must have Nationwide policies with at least the following limits:
$300,000 of liability coverage.
$250,000 bodily injury liability per person.
$500,000 bodily injury liability per accident.
$100,000 property damage liability.
$300,000 bodily injury liability per person.
$300,000 bodily injury liability per accident.
$100,000 property damage liability.
USAA
Coverage limits: $1 million to $5 million, with higher limits available through the USAA Insurance Agency.
States available: All 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Eligibility requirements: USAA policies are available only to veterans, active military and their families. The following limits apply to underlying policies:
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
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.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
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.
This ApartmentGuide article shines a spotlight on life in the Cornhusker State, where the dynamic urban life of Omaha meets the cultural hub of Lincoln. Renters will find themselves enchanted by the affordable living options along with the state’s beauty. However there are downsides to residing in Nebraska. Whether you’re contemplating a move and want to learn more about the state, here are the pros and cons of living in Nebraska.
Renting in Nebraska snapshot
1. Pro: Rich historical sites
Nebraska is home to numerous historical sites that offer a glimpse into America’s past. From the Chimney Rock National Historic Site to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, the state is a treasure trove for history lovers. These sites not only provide educational experiences but also serve as beautiful locations for outdoor activities.
2. Con: Extreme weather conditions
Nebraska witnesses a diverse spectrum of weather throughout the year, with summers averaging 87 degrees Fahrenheit and winters dropping to lows of 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The state is also situated in Tornado Alley, making it susceptible to severe weather events including tornadoes and thunderstorms. This can pose challenges for residents, from property damage to disruptions in daily life.
3. Pro: Agricultural community
The state’s economy is heavily influenced by its agricultural sector, with Nebraska being a leading producer of beef, pork, corn, and soybeans. This vibrant agricultural community not only supports the local economy but also offers farm-to-table dining experiences across the state, showcasing the freshness and quality of local produce.
4. Con: Limited public transportation options
Nebraska’s public transportation options are relatively limited, especially in rural areas. This can make it challenging for residents without personal vehicles to navigate the state. In cities like Lincoln, the transit score is 24 making it a car-dependent location.
5. Pro: Affordable cost of living
Compared to many other states, Nebraska offers an affordable cost of living. Housing, groceries, and utilities are generally less expensive here, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollars further. Omaha, Nebraska’s largest city exudes this affordability where you can expect the median sale price to be $255,000 and a one-bedroom apartment averaging to $1,160. The state’s affordability is a significant advantage for residents, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the high costs associated with other regions.
6. Con: Limited entertainment and cultural options
While Nebraska has its charms, it may not match the entertainment and cultural offerings found in larger metropolitan areas. Residents may find the options for nightlife, dining, and cultural events more limited, which could be a drawback for those seeking a vibrant city life. However, the state’s community events and natural attractions like the Sandhills, the Great Plains and the Niobrara River offer their own appeal.
7. Pro: Natural beauty and outdoor activities
Nebraska’s natural landscapes, including the rolling Sandhills, picturesque views along the Missouri River, and vast prairies, offer ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether exploring the rugged terrain of Scotts Bluff National Monument, birdwatching at the Platte River, or fishing in the calm waters of Lake McConaughy, the state’s diverse geography provides endless possibilities for adventure.
8. Con: Economic dependence on agriculture
While agriculture is a cornerstone of Nebraska’s economy, this also means that the state’s economic health is closely tied to the agricultural sector. Fluctuations in commodity prices and agricultural production can have significant impacts on the state’s economy which can affect its residents.
9. Pro: Central location
Nebraska’s central location in the United States, with cities like Omaha and Lincoln situated at the intersection of major interstate highways such as I-80 and I-29, makes it a crucial transportation hub. Additionally, Union Pacific’s headquarters in Omaha and its extensive rail network further enhance the state’s connectivity to national and international markets.
10. Con: Water quality concerns
Water quality concerns pose significant challenges for Nebraska, particularly in areas where agricultural runoff and contamination are prevalent. For instance, nitrate pollution from fertilizers used in farming can seep into groundwater sources, affecting drinking water supplies and posing health risks for residents.
11. Pro: Friendly communities
One of Nebraska’s standout features is its friendly and close-knit communities, where neighbors often know each other by name. For instance, small towns like Minden and Broken Bow exemplify this sense of community, where residents come together for local events and foster strong social bonds.
12. Con: Strong winds
Nebraska’s strong winds can be a significant drawback for residents, especially in rural areas where wind speeds can reach high velocities. These gusty conditions not only make outdoor activities challenging but can also lead to property damage, soil erosion, and safety hazards on the roads.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.