When it comes to college towns in Wyoming, the state has a lot more to offer than just beautiful landscapes and natural wonders.
Wyoming boasts several bustling cities that are home to thriving academic institutions. In this article, we will explore the best college towns in Wyoming, where you will find the perfect blend of educational opportunities, recreational activities and engaging local culture. Buckle up, tie your hiking boots tight and join us on this journey to discover the hidden gems of Wyoming’s academic landscape.
Nestled between the Snowy Range and the Laramie Range, Laramie is often considered the crown jewel among college towns in Wyoming. Home to the University of Wyoming, the city has a thriving student community. As the state’s flagship university, UW provides high-quality education and a myriad of research opportunities. The University of Wyoming Art Museum and the American Heritage Center contribute to the enriching cultural experience students can expect while pursuing their studies here.
Beyond academics, Laramie offers a ton of recreational resources that cater to a wide range of interests. The city is a haven for outdoorsy types, boasting easy access to hiking, biking and skiing trails. During the warmer months, students can take a break from their studies and embark on scenic excursions along the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest or the Vedauwoo Recreation Area. Meanwhile, downtown Laramie offers an eclectic mix of local shops, eateries and entertainment venues, where students can unwind and socialize after a long day of classes.
As the second-largest city in the state, Casper is a thriving college town in Wyoming and home to Casper College. This college offers a range of degree programs, making it an ideal choice for students looking to pursue higher education in a smaller city setting. Casper College prides itself on its strong ties to the community, and the campus provides a close-knit, nurturing environment for students to grow both academically and personally.
Casper boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous attractions to keep students entertained during their downtime. The city is home to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history. For art enthusiasts, the Nicolaysen Art Museum features contemporary and modern art from local and national artists alike. With the North Platte River running through the heart of the city, students can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, like fishing, kayaking and hiking along the river’s picturesque banks.
Located near the Bighorn Mountains, Sheridan is another noteworthy college town in Wyoming. This charming city is home to Sheridan College, a part of the Northern Wyoming Community College District. Sheridan College offers a broad range of academic programs and is known for its strong commitment to workforce development, preparing students for careers in various industries. The college’s beautiful campus, nestled in the picturesque landscape, provides a serene environment for students to focus on their studies.
Sheridan has a rich history, which is reflected in its vibrant downtown area. The Historic Main Street District offers an enticing mix of shops, galleries and restaurants, perfect for students looking to unwind and explore local culture. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Sheridan, as the city is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Students can take advantage of the nearby Bighorn National Forest for hiking, camping and fishing or head to the Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
Situated in the heart of Wyoming, Riverton is yet another flourishing college town that offers a unique blend of cultural and educational experiences. Central Wyoming College, provides various academic programs and an emphasis on workforce training. With its commitment to student success, Central Wyoming College offers a supportive and stimulating learning environment for students from all walks of life.
Riverton’s culture is greatly influenced by its proximity to the Wind River Indian Reservation, which is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. This cultural diversity enriches the city and presents students with the opportunity to learn about and engage with the region’s indigenous heritage. Riverton’s vibrant downtown area offers a lively array of shops, restaurants and galleries, while the annual Riverton Rendezvous festival brings the community together for a celebration of the city’s unique history and heritage. With its picturesque location near the Little Wind River, students can enjoy various outdoor pursuits, including fishing, hiking and wildlife watching.
Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, Powell stands out among college towns in Wyoming for its strong focus on agriculture and natural resources. Northwest College offers a diverse range of academic programs, with particular emphasis on agricultural and environmental studies. The college’s commitment to hands-on learning and research ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields immediately after graduation.
Powell’s close-knit community and small-town charm create a welcoming atmosphere for students. The city’s historic downtown area features a delightful assortment of shops, cafes and restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s proximity to the Shoshone National Forest and Yellowstone National Park, which offer a wide range of recreational activities, from hiking and camping to wildlife watching and photography.
Why not settle down in a Wyoming college town?
Wyoming’s top college towns offer students a diverse array of academic, cultural and recreational experiences. From the bustling city of Laramie to the charming and historic town of Sheridan, each college town above has its own unique character and appeal. These cities provide the perfect backdrop for students to pursue their academic goals while also enjoying an engaging and fulfilling college experience. Pick your favorite city and find your new Wyoming apartment today.
Inside: The summer months are a great time to cash in while teachers get paid. Here are some tips to maximize your income as a teacher.
The school year is almost over, and soon students will be heading off to summer vacation. But how about teachers?
Teachers are expected to start getting paid in the summer too- or at least that’s what we’ve been told. However, some believe there may not be enough money for this extra pay out of pocket if all schools do it by themselves.
So now I want you to think back on your child’s teacher from last school year – did they get paid in the summer?
Summer is here, and it’s time for teachers to ask “do I get paid in the summer?”
The answer depends on your state. The following are guidelines for what teachers should expect from their employer during the summer break as well as tips to maximize their paychecks.
What is the average salary for a teacher?
The average salary for a teacher varies depending on the country, level of education, and years of experience. However, a teacher’s salary is typically lower than other professions with similar levels of education and experience.
This is the unfortunate truth for the teaching profession. Truly I believe teachers deserve to be paid higher as they are guiding our future generations.
On average, the national classroom teacher salary was $65,090 for the 2021-21 school year, according to the National Education Association.
This varies depending on the factors mentioned above, such as degree attained and experience level.
average salary for a teacher Examples
Using the same data from NEA, let’s look at some examples.
For example, the average teacher salary in California is $84,531 per year, which California ranks 2nd highest for average teacher pay among 50 states. Illinois starting salary is $68,083 and ranks #12 in the nation.
Whereas, Arizona’s teachers survive on a starting salary of $50,782 ranking #26 in the nation. In Colorado, the average starting salary for teachers is a pitiful $35,292 ranking #48 in the nation.
Do teachers get paid in the summer?
There is no one answer to this question because teacher salaries can vary depending on the state or country in which they work. In some cases, teachers may get paid during the summer months, while in other cases they may not.
Most teachers in the United States are paid over a 12-month period.
During that time, they work 10 months and receive a paycheck for those 10 months. For the other two months, they do not get paid since they’re on summer vacation. However, there is an option to have a 12-month pay cycle where teachers are paid all year long.
Alternatively, some teachers choose to have a 10-month pay cycle where they only receive paychecks during school hours. This can be difficult because budgeting is hard when you’re only getting paid during certain times of the year. You’ll likely spend more money than you make during those eight weeks of summer vacation!
The 12-month pay structure is an option for any teacher that wants to collect their salary all year long. It is important to note that this alternative might come with less money per month, but it spreads out the income evenly throughout the year. Teachers should schedule their pay dates around the year so they make a consistent amount of money throughout – more on that shortly.
Teachers need to be careful when structuring their pay dates during the summer because they’ll likely spend more in that time period. It is important to understand how your pay is structured so you can plan accordingly.
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How many weeks do teachers get off?
Teachers in the United States typically get a total of around 13 weeks off over the course of the entire school year. The summer break is typically six to eight weeks long, and most teachers use their winter break and spring break to take some time off as well.
What do teachers do during the summer?
During the summer, teachers have a lot of time on their hands compared to the school year. They can take up new hobbies or just relax and enjoy the break!
Teachers often take a summer break to do things they enjoy. They might go traveling, spend time with their family and friends, or just relax by the pool.
Find 17 more ideas on what teachers do in the summer.
What do teachers do in the summer for money?
Teachers typically either work in the summer or take a break without working.
Depending on their profession and geographical location, some teachers will find jobs during the summer while others will not. Some may also teach for a summer school or choose from one of the ideas below.
What are some ways to maximize income during the summer months?
There are a few different ways to make the most of your income during the summer months.
First of all, many teachers find that this is the best time to enjoy a getaway from the school system. They want to have their downtime, decompress, and relax.
Financially speaking, you must be prepared with your budget to make the most of your paychecks.
Plan ahead
Depending on how you opt to get paid during the summers is important. If you choose the larger paychecks over 10 months, then you need a plan for money when your checks stop for the break. If you keep your pay consistent throughout the year, then you may want to work on cutting back on certain expenses since you have more time over the summer.
Teachers can have the same schedule as their children. This gives them a chance to spend more time with them and see them in a different environment than at school.
Many times, teachers are not going to complain about a summer schedule that has flexibility and is similar to those of their kids. They know that they need to arrange ahead and structure their schedule correctly in order to take advantage of the time they have outside of work.
Most teachers put in a lot of hours, but it’s worth what they get out of it because they enjoy teaching and being with children.
Have a money saving goal in place
This is especially true if you do not receive paychecks during the summer. You need to have money saved up to cover any summer expenses.
A great idea is to create a summer savings account to accrue funds for when school breaks for the session. This choice allows teachers to save money that will be automatically deducted from their checks throughout the year and deposited into a different account, which will earn interest.
In order to make this work, it is important that teachers choose banks that are not convenient and do not offer online access as the temptation may be too great and cause unwanted withdrawals from the fund.
Understand your work life balance
Teachers work long hours throughout the week. The statistics vary on exactly how many hours. However, there is a consensus the number of hours has increased since 2020 (source).
For a teacher, their working hours include school-related activities like conferences and staff meetings, which can include teaching extracurricular programs like club soccer or lesson planning for new teachers. Oh, and don’t forget their main focus is to teach our children.
While it is important to maximize income during the summer months, it is also important to find a job that does not require so much time and energy. A summer job can be more of a lifestyle choice than just an employment opportunity. A summer job can be physically draining and require you to work long hours and to live with the same mindset year-round. Some jobs are easier during the school year due to shorter days, fewer students, or less paperwork.
For others, their time freedom is more important than living on a tight budget.
How can teachers make extra money during the summer?
Teaching jobs are plentiful during the summer months when kids are home from school.
Also, this may be a great time to invest in furthering your education, garner new skills to change industries, or start a side hustle.
Many teachers take on a side job during the summer to make some extra money. This is especially true for newer teachers looking to pay off student loan debt. The most common option is to become a private tutor, but there are plenty of other ideas.
There are many different ways for teachers to make extra cash during the summer. So, let’s get you some extra cash ideas!
Idea #1 – Get paid to tutor students over the summer
Private tutors are the most common side job for teachers. If you’re already a great teacher, you’ll have no trouble getting referrals and growing those classes.
You can also look into online tutoring, which has exploded in popularity recently. Tutoring is a flexible summer job for teachers who want to keep their skills sharp.
Here are some places you can find work as a teacher: Skooli, TutorMe, Aim-for-A Tutoring, and more.
You could make up to $50 an hour tutoring students. There are also plenty of summer job opportunities for teachers who want to stay connected with their students during the summer.
Tutoring is a great way to make extra money for teachers year-round.
Idea #2 – Take on a part-time job
If you’re looking for ways to make extra cash during the summer, consider taking on a part-time job. There are many opportunities available, and the pay is usually good.
As an example, a teacher who has been teaching for 14 years, every summer he takes on an additional job to make up for the low pay he receives during the school year. He has money taken out of his summer pay every week to supplement it during the school year months.
There are many opportunities in retail, restaurants, construction, and other fields. There is a great need for part-time people making wages over $17 an hour.
Idea #3 – Teach summer classes
Another popular option for teachers who want to make extra money is teaching summer classes.
Many parents are worried about their kids losing previously learned information and practice the entire summer to improve retention rates. In addition, many school districts offer summer classes to help students retain information.
Check with your local school district to see options.
Idea #4 – Search for seasonal work
As the school year comes to a close, many teachers are looking for ways to make money during the summer. Fortunately, there are a number of options available with seasonal jobs starting to come available. In addition, many are outdoors and you can enjoy the sun and some fresh air!
Teachers can also look into manual labor-type jobs or summer camps for income in the summertime.
Most of these types of jobs start hiring during the slow winter months. So, make sure to apply early and have something set up before the school term ends.
This is great for someone who wants an early morning job!
Idea # 5 – Professional Development
The concept of being willing to learn is important for teachers. It’s one reason why taking on professional development courses during the summer can be so valuable. Working through professional development courses during the summer can also give you an edge when it comes time to look for a new teaching job.
However, this is how you earn a higher salary year-round.
Teachers can increase their earnings by holding a master’s or doctoral degree. Some states pay teachers with master’s and doctoral degrees higher wages than others. This is how you increase your hourly wage.
Idea #6 – Sell Lesson Plans
Yep, this one is becoming even more and more popular!
Why should you let all of your great lesson plans just sit aside during the summer? Start hustling and sell your lesson plans for the cash.
Etsy is a great place to start.
Idea #7 – Start a Side Hustle
What is a side hustle? It’s something that you can do to supplement or replace the income from your main job, like running an eBay shop during the summer when you’re not teaching. Or even your own blog?
Think about the hobbies you enjoy and see if you can make money by doing something you enjoy. That is a great place to start!
Here are great ways to make money on the side:
It is possible to make more money on your business than you make more money in your current job or career.
Idea # 8 – Learn to Make Money From Stocks
If you’re interested in learning how to trade stocks, this is the perfect place to start.
One former assistant principal, Teri Ijeoma, changed her life when she left her job as an educator and become an active trader.
What is a day trader or swing trader? It’s someone who trades stocks on the stock market but knows when to get out.
You can also make money as a swing trader by taking advantage of fluctuations in stocks. For example, you can make money as a swing trader by buying stocks at the low point and selling them at the high point.
If you are interested in swing trading stocks, you must get an investing education. Most of my fellow traders are former teachers after taking the Trade and Travel investing course.
Idea #9 – Work at a Summer Camp or other Child Care Jobs
There are many ways for teachers to make extra money during the summer and have fun by working as camp counselors.
There are also many child-related jobs that need great employees when kids are home from school due to summer break. Some parents will keep their children busy throughout the summer, but others are worried about what they have learned in school and may soon forget.
Also, many families are looking for nannies while their children are out of school. Parents want teachers to play a role in helping them with school retention throughout the summer, and not be behind in August or September.
Most of these jobs will pay higher because they prefer a licensed teacher.
Idea #10 – Offer to give people rides or any personal assistant help
You can make money by giving people rides in your car. For example, you could offer to pick up strangers at the airport and take them to their hotel or host a taxi service.
You could be a personal assistant and help with chores or errands around the house.
People are always looking to outsource things and you could easily make some extra side money.
This is a good list of ideas for teachers to make money during the summer.
What are some tips for budgeting during the summer months?
Summertime is a great opportunity to relax and take a break from work, but it can also be a time to save money and prepare for the next school year. Many educators receive a paycheck during the school year but don’t have regular income over the summer. This makes it important to budget throughout the year, so you can have enough money saved up when school starts again.
Budgeting can be a stressful process.
However, budgeting should not be about cutting corners or reducing spending, but rather about creating financial freedom for the long term. The tips in this article are actionable and will help attain financial independence for the future.
Some tips for budgeting during the summer months include setting a budget for the summer months, creating a savings goal, and cutting back on expenses.
It is important to remember that many people are traveling and spending money during the summer months, so it’s important to be smart with your budgeting decisions. By following these tips, you can make sure that you have enough money saved up when school starts again!
Tip #1 – Create a budget for the summer months
Budgeting during the summer months can be difficult for those without consistent pay. However, it is possible to do with some creativity and planning. Here are a few tips:
Create a budget for $500 less a month than your paycheck. This may seem challenging, but it is possible if you make cuts in specific areas.
Save that $500 for your current saving goals.
Look at expenses that you don’t care to spend money on and cut them out.
House hack your vacation spots by house-sitting for someone else!
Be more realistic about how much you spend during the summer.
Make sure you are reaching your long-term goals.
Budgeting can be made easier with the help of planning ahead and keeping a buffer of money available.
Tip #2 – Save money during your summer break
There are many ways to save money during your summer break.
Saving money can be difficult, especially during the summer when you may have more free time.
It is important to organize your finances and set a budget before spending so that you are not surprised.
It is important to allocate the money saved into long-term goals or savings accounts so that you can reach them one day!
You can start by taking advantage of many of our popular money saving challenges:
Tip #3 – Find Ways to Make Extra Cash
There are many different ways to make extra cash during the summer months. In fact, we detailed many options above.
This is the perfect time to make extra money. As we outlined already, many teachers are severely underpaid for the work and dedication they put in. So, you might as well find a way to make extra money now and then get back to what you love during the winter months.
Many teachers find other ways to make extra money during the summer. Some work in summer school, while others take on private students. Still, others find work in professional development courses. Whatever route you decide to take, be sure to keep learning and growing as a teacher. That’s the best way to maintain your edge in the competitive job market.
Tip #4 – Find free fun!
Another tip is to make a list of summer activities that are affordable and fun.
Here is a little secret… you do not need to spend a fortune in order to have fun. In fact, there are plenty of things to do with no money!
Stretch your budget by picking a few higher ticket items and supplement the rest with free fun!
How do you spend summer break?
Most teachers would agree that the summer break is necessary to avoid burnout during the first six weeks of school. The summer break also gives students and teachers a chance to recharge their batteries and start the new school year fresh.
The teachers I know usually spend their summer break going on trips with my family and friends or relaxing at home. As well as catching up on home projects or reading books and watching movies during free time.
With Your Teacher Pay Structure, What are Your Next Steps?
There are a lot of different ways to spend summer break! Some people choose to travel, others stay home and relax. Still, others take on summer jobs for teachers or side hustles to make some extra money.
And then there are the teachers – they often use their summer break to catch up on work or prepare for the upcoming school year.
No matter how you choose to spend your summer break, it’s important to enjoy it! Take some time to relax and recharge, but also make sure to stay productive and get things done.
That way, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way when fall arrives.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
I remember starting my career as a young adult, I had a lot on my plate, working my 9 to 5, paying off my student loans, and hoping to find my future spouse.
One of the last things on my mind was buying life insurance. I could almost guarantee that for all young adults buying life insurance is the last thing on our minds.
So the question remains, “Should young adults consider buying life insurance?”
The cop out answer is: it depends.
A lot depends on where you are in your life and what where you plan to be in the next few years. If you are a young adult considering buying life insurance, here are some things to consider.
Remember the Hand That Feeds You
In retrospect, I regret not buying life insurance when I was a young adult. Sure, I was single and I didn’t have any dependents, but my parents didn’t have a lot of income and a lot of financial stability. If something happened to me and they had to pay for my funeral expenses, it would have affected them greatly.
In fact, it would have been so great that I honestly don’t know how they would paid for it. Getting a cheap term policy would have cost me less than $10/month and my parents would have been unscathed financially if something happened to me.
If you are single, you might not think that you need life insurance but don’t forget about the ones that raised you.
Life insurance is very inexpensive and even if you took out a small $50,000 to $100,000 policy, you would be paying less than 2 values meals at McDonald’s a month for coverage. It is the responsible thing to do and it won’t drain your checking account like one would think.
If you’re in the same boat that I was in, single with no dependents, you probably think the same thing I did, that life insurance would be a waste of time.
But before you automatically discount it, talk to your parents about the possibility of something tragic happening and what kind of financial suffering they would experience if you were to pass away.
What About Debts?
It seems nowadays that parents are helping their kids more and more getting through school and getting their career started. I wasn’t one of those lucky ones, but my wife was.
Her parents sacrificed funding their retirement fully to pay for their daughters tuition and cost of living while at school. Imagine if something happened to her and now all that money on books and fees is literally flushed down the toilet.
If she would have had bought cheap life insurance, her parents would have been replenished all the money they had invested into her college education.
But, just because you’re a young adult doesn’t mean that student loans are your only debt. This is the stage of life when you’re going to start looking to buy a house, right? Even if you don’t have a mortgage right now, look a few years in to the future.
A couple years down the road you could buy your first house, which means that you’re responsible for your first mortgage. If you were to pass away with that mortgage, guess where it’s going? Straight to your family.
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When Shouldn’t Young Adults Buy Life Insurance?
If you are debt free, your parents haven’t handed you the silver spoon and you are not married, then buying life insurance isn’t necessary. At least not yet. When you do start your family, that’s when life insurance should become a priority.
Also, don’t buy your life insurance through your employer (unless you have a pre-existing condition). The price is usually about the same buying it through a third party, plus you won’t have to worry about getting life insurance again if you change jobs.
Life Insurance Is NOT Expensive
Some of the major benefits of buying life insurance when you are young is that it is super, super cheap, as mentioned above. The younger you are, the lower your costs are going to be in paying for your life insurance.
Going from your 20’s to your 30’s or 40’s, you can generally see a 20% to 25% increase in premium.
Compound this with the fact that when you are younger, you are super healthy and probably still find time to work out five days a week, which further increases your changes of locking in a low rate.
Getting The Best Life Insurance Rates
Yes, as a young adult, life insurance is going to be cheap. Very cheap. But this is the premium that you’re going to be paying for many years to come, so you want to get the best rates that you can.
You have one of the biggest advantages of finding cheap life insurance, your age. Your age is the biggest factor in determining how much you’re going to pay for your coverage, buying coverage at 20 is much more affordable than purchasing life insurance over 50 years old, but it’s not the only one.
You can’t do anything about how old you are (trust me, you can’t stop it), but there are some factors that you can change and save money on your insurance plan.
The next biggest factor that the insurance company is going to look at is your health. They will look for any pre-existing conditions and your overall health to determine how much of a risk you are.
The higher your risk level may be, the more they’re going to charge you for insurance coverage. If you want to save money on your monthly premiums, spend a couple months improving your health.
After you complete the initial paperwork for your policy, the insurance company is going to send a paramedic out to complete a simple medical exam to determine what kind of health you are in.
During this exam, the paramedic is going to take your blood pressure, cholesterol, take a blood sample, and also a urine sample. These results are going to play a role in what kind of ratings you get.
If you have are carrying a few more pounds than you should, it’s time to trim down that waistline. Being overweight increases your chances of having health problems later in life, like diabetes or heart complications. It’s time to actually use that gym membership that you’ve been paying for.
Additionally, if you’re a smoker or tobacco user, it’s time to kick those bad habits once and for all. If you’re listed as a smoker on your life insurance application, you’re going to be looking at double or triple the monthly premiums of a non-smoker.
Sure, that could only raise your premiums by $20 or $30, but once you calculate that out through the course of the insurance policy, it adds of to some serious cash.
The best way to ensure that you get the best rates is by comparing dozens of companies before you choose the plan that works best for you. Each company is different and is going to view your applications differently. It’s vital that you receive quotes from several different companies before you choose the one that works best for you.
Boasting a magical blend of culture, history and academia, Wisconsin is home to some of the finest college towns in the country.
From bustling city centers to quaint rural communities, these towns brim with youthful energy and a passion for learning. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the best college towns in Wisconsin, where we’ll discover Madison, Appleton, De Pere, Milwaukee and Eau Claire.
As Wisconsin’s capital city, Madison is also home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, making it the epicenter of collegiate life in the state. This picturesque city benefits from a stunning location nestled between two sparkling lakes and is home to a diverse community teeming with creativity and innovation. As one of the best college towns in Wisconsin, Madison caters to the needs of students, residents and visitors alike, with an abundance of restaurants, shops and entertainment options. From biking and kayaking along the miles of shoreline to perusing the eclectic shops and eateries on State Street, there’s always something to do in this bustling city.
The heart and soul of Madison’s college scene is the iconic Memorial Union Terrace (pictured above), a lakeside gathering spot where students and locals alike can enjoy live music, outdoor movies and delicious local fare. If art and culture are more your speed, don’t miss the Chazen Museum of Art or the Wisconsin Historical Museum. Madison’s rich history and progressive atmosphere make it one of the top college towns in Wisconsin and is perfect for students seeking a well-rounded college experience.
Home to Lawrence University, Appleton is a charming city that harmoniously blends its history with a modern atmosphere. This college town is nestled along the Fox River, where the abundant natural beauty provides a serene backdrop for the city’s bustling downtown area. Appleton’s arts scene, supplemented by the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and Trout Museum of Art, makes it one of the best college towns in Wisconsin for students with an appreciation for culture and creativity.
Appleton’s picturesque downtown is lined with unique shops, delicious dining options and lively entertainment venues, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. In addition to its thriving downtown, the city’s historic sites, such as the Hearthstone Historic House Museum and the Atlas Science Center, offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past. Appleton’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future makes it a standout among college towns in Wisconsin, perfect for students seeking a blend of old-world charm and contemporary activity.
Located just south of Green Bay, De Pere is a quaint and idyllic college town that’s home to St. Norbert College, a private liberal arts institution. The Fox River meanders through the heart of this cozy community, providing a picturesque setting for students and locals to enjoy outdoor activities like walking, biking and fishing. De Pere’s small-town charm and friendly atmosphere undoubtedly make it one of the most inviting college towns in Wisconsin.
De Pere’s historic downtown district is a treasure trove of boutique shops, cozy cafes and unique eateries, where seasonal students and year-round locals alike can indulge in unique flavors and discover one-of-a-kind finds. The De Pere Riverwalk and Wildlife Viewing Area offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle and the community’s commitment to the arts is evident in the events and performances hosted at the charming St. Norbert College. If you’re looking for a college town in Wisconsin that offers a tight-knit community and a serene environment, De Pere is the perfect fit.
Affectionately known as ‘Brew City,’ Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s largest city and home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Marquette University and Milwaukee School of Engineering. This bustling metropolis is a diverse environment that caters to students seeking an exciting, city-based college experience. Milwaukee’s lively arts and culture, combined with its beautiful lakefront location, make it one of the best college towns in Wisconsin for students craving a dynamic atmosphere while they pursue their degrees.
Milwaukee has a plethora of entertainment options, from the iconic Harley-Davidson Museum to the historic Pabst Theater and so much more. Foodies will find no shortage of delectable dining options, as the city boasts a wide variety of restaurants, breweries and food trucks, serving up everything from traditional Wisconsin fare to global cuisines. Milwaukee’s unique blend of urban excitement and Midwestern charm makes it a standout among college towns in Wisconsin, perfect for students eager to experience city life during their college years.
As a bonus, we’ll introduce you to Eau Claire, a vibrant city that’s home to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Known for its strong arts and music scene, Eau Claire boasts a rich cultural heritage that permeates the entire community. From the stunning Pablo Center at the Confluence to the numerous music festivals held throughout the year, Eau Claire’s creative spirit makes it a standout among Wisconsin college towns.
The city’s lively downtown area offers a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options for students and locals alike. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s extensive network of parks and trails, including the beautiful Chippewa River State Trail and Putnam Park. Eau Claire’s thriving arts scene, coupled with its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, make it a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded college experience in Wisconsin.
Welcome to your Wisconsin college town
With their rich histories, youthful communities and top-notch educational institutions, these college towns in Wisconsin offer an unforgettable college experience. From bustling cities like Milwaukee to charming small towns like De Pere, there’s a perfect fit for every student in the Badger State.
Today, I have a post from a new blog friend of mine. As you all know, I’m all about being as positive as you can be, especially when it comes to your financial situation. Thinking about the negatives just holds you back and wastes your time. It’s much better to move forward, create a game plan to eliminate your debt, and stay as positive as you can. Read more in my post Why I Believe Being Positive Can Change Your Financial Situation And Your Life.
The majority of us have some sort of debt that we’re dealing with.
Whether it’s a small amount or a large amount it can still be a stressor in our lives.
Maybe it’s a mortgage, a car loan, student loans, credit cards or any combination of these. It’s a stress factor that many of us are letting take a hold of our lives.
I had a scholarship to a state university but turned it down to attend DeVry University. I had some small scholarships to help out, but I still accumulated student loans. After finishing my bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems, I went on to receive my MBA and then shortly after another Master’s Degree. So, I’ve accumulated quite a bit of student loans myself.
I’ve also owned a house since I graduated college and now have two rental properties. It was just easier to rent them out versus trying to sell them in a buyer’s market when I had to move due to my job. This led to my credit card debt that I accumulated over a decade ago. I finally managed to pay most of these off awhile back, but it was a struggle! Being on my own for the first time and having poor money management skills led to my financial stress. Thing about it is, once you realize and acknowledge that you have a problem, the better you can find a solution and learn from your mistakes.
We also have car loans just like most people. Both my husband and I have to have our own vehicles. Me, because I have to drive to work. Him, so that he can have a means of transportation in case he needs to take the kids somewhere. Side note: he has the luxury to be a stay-at-home daddy.
Being that he’s a stay-at-home daddy can be challenging, though. We don’t have that extra income like some families do. But, it’s important to us that at least one parent stays home with the kids until they’re all in school. The working parent had to be me due to where I was in my career compared to him. Therefore, we have been creative with our budgeting skills.
So, been there, done that. I lived the stress. I wore the stress.
I learned from the stress.
Do you feel like you just keep making payments, maybe even using your tax return to help out, but still feel as though you’re not even making a dent? You give up and start believing that debt is just a part of life. You learn to accept it. Maybe you make a budget. But you continue living paycheck to paycheck. It’s what you know. It’s stressful but it’s normal.
Financial stress is like any other stress.
It has the same effects on your mind and body as any other type of stress. Don’t think it’s different.
Stress can make you lose sleep. Losing sleep causes sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation can cause hallucinations, memory instability, impact your social life and so much more. Don’t lose sleep over financial stress – it’s not worth it!
Stress can make you sick. Stress puts a huge damper on your immune system. Lack of immunity leads to an increase chance of getting sick.
Stress can cause high blood pressure. High blood pressure causes heart problems. It can lead to heart disease, heart attacks, abnormal heart beats. Heart problems can lead to things much worse than debt. Don’t let it!
Stress can cause depression. Depression also affects your health. It also messes with your hippocampus, the gateway to your memory.
Stress can cause heartburn. Heartburn can be extremely uncomfortable. The only experience I have with heartburn was when I was pregnant. I hated it. I felt like I needed to eat all the time to try to make it feel better. If this is you, then it could cause you to overeat.
Which leads me to, stress can cause weight gain. It can also cause weight loss depending on how you handle stress personally.
Stress also cause skin problems, like acne. So not only do you experience personal effects of stress, but now you’re showing it off to the world around you.
It’s time to make a change.
Debt doesn’t have to be a stress factor in your life. I’m not saying we should embrace debt. But, instead of focusing on the negative aspect of debt, focus on the positives. Alleviate the stress and concentrate on managing your finances to reach your end goal.
In honor of Positivity, My Word of the Year, let’s analyze this situation to find the negatives to uncover the positives.
The Negatives:
Mortgage Debt
Car Loan Debt
Student Loan Debt
Credit Card Debt
Now let’s take each of these negative points and find something positive.
Mortgage Debt: You are able to have a roof over your head. There are others out there who cannot. Be appreciative of the fact that you have a safe haven to take comfort in. Instead of stressing over your mortgage debt, be thankful for that roof over your head and feel safe, comforted in the walls protecting you and your family.
Car Loan Debt: You have transportation. A means to drive you to and from work. A vehicle to drive your children to the doctor when they are sick. There are others out there who do not have this luxury. You can choose to trade it in for a more affordable car to help with the stress or even go carless, if this debt is not worthwhile to you.
Student Loan Debt: You have an education. You have proof of what you know and it may have helped you land a job, a job that is helping you pay off that debt. There are others out there without a degree. Instead of lingering on the stress of having student loans, use the experience and knowledge you paid for.
Credit Card Debt: Realize that when you pay off your credit card debt, what your credit history will show. So don’t stress out over it. Just keep your focus on the end goal.
Author bio: Kimberly Farrally is the Co-Writer for Sweet Discord, an inspirational + lifestyle blog, and owner of Farrally Paperie, LLC, an invitation and party decor handmade shop. Learn more about converting the negatives in your life into positive opportunities. Together we can find inspiration for your lifestyle.
Do you find it hard to stay positive when paying off debt?
ESSA Bank & Trust will pay over $3 million to resolve redlining allegations, the Department of Justice announced Wednesday evening.
The Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania-based bank, from 2017 to 2021, did not sufficiently serve the credit needs of majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Philadelphia by “failing to provide mortgage lending services” and “discouraging such borrowers,” the DOJ alleges. The city has a history of redlining practices that goes back to the 20th century.
Per a consent order, which is subject to court approval, ESSA will invest $2.92 million in a loan subsidy fund to increase access in minority neighborhoods, $125,000 on community partnerships and $250,000 on outreach and consumer financial education efforts.
At least 50% of the subsidy fund must be used for consumers applying for loans in majority-Black and Hispanic census tracts within a five mile radius of the bank’s Upper Darby and Lansdowne branches, the court order said.
Additional stipulations of the order require the bank to hire two new mortgage loan officers to serve its existing branches in West Philadelphia, and for ESSA to conduct a research-based market study to identify the needs for financial services in communities of color. These requirements will stay in effect for five years.
ESSA’s President Gary Olson said he “vehemently [denies] the government’s allegations of redlining” but added that the company “cooperated expeditiously and fully with the investigation into this matter.”
Olson called the settlement a “constructive resolution to a dispute that has lasted several years.”
“We plan on using these loan subsidy funds to expand opportunities for qualified borrowers who can benefit from this assistance,” he added.
The now-settled allegations were brought to the attention of the DOJ by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. in June 2022, prompting the department to open an investigation on Aug. 15, 2022.
“Redlining in Philadelphia has deep roots, which has led decades of disinvestment in communities of color,” said Jacqueline C. Romero, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, in a written statement.
“Accessing the American dream of owning your own home is possible only when there is equality for all in their opportunities to access lending in the residential mortgage markets,” she said. “We appreciate ESSA’s prompt cooperation with the department’s investigation.”
The settlement with ESSA is part of an interagency initiative involving the DOJ, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, which was launched in October 2021 by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland to combat redlining.
Since then, the DOJ has announced seven redlining cases and settlements totaling over $87 million in relief for communities of color, the department said. This includes a $9 million settlement with Park National Bank in March and a $31 million settlement with City National Bank in January, the largest in the department’s history.
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32k salary is a solid hourly wage; above most minimum hourly wage jobs.
For most people, an entry-level job would be pay just over $32,000 a year. The question that remains is can you make a living off $32k a year.
The median household income is $68,703 in 2019 and increased by 6.8% from the previous year (source). Think of it as a bell curve with $68K at the top; the median means half of the population makes less than that and half makes more money.
The average income in the U.S. is $48,672 for a 40-hour workweek; that is an increase of 4% from the previous year (source). That means if you take everyone’s income and divided the money out evenly between all of the people.
But, the question remains can you truly live off 32,000 per year in today’s society since it is well below both the average and median household incomes. The question you want to ask all of your friends is $32000 per year a good salary.
In this post, we are going to dive into everything that you need to know about a $32000 salary including hourly pay and a sample budget on how to spend and save your money.
These key facts will help you with money management and learn how much per hour $32k is as well as what you make per month, weekly, and biweekly.
Just like with any paycheck, it seems like money quickly goes out of your account to cover all of your bills and expenses, and you are left with a very small amount remaining. You may be disappointed that you were not able to reach your financial goals and you are left wondering…
Can I make a living on this salary?
$32000 a year is How Much an Hour?
When jumping from an hourly job to a salary for the first time, it is helpful to know how much is 32k a year hourly. That way you can decide whether or not the job is worthwhile for you.
For our calculations to figure out how much is 32K salary hourly, we used the average five working days of 40 hours a week.
$32000 a year is $15.38 per hour
Let’s breakdown how that 32000 salary to hourly number is calculated.
Typically, the average workweek is 40 hours and you can work 52 weeks a year. Take 40 hours times 52 weeks and that equals 2,080 working hours. Then, divide the yearly salary of $32000 by 2,080 working hours and the result is $15.38 per hour.
32000 salary / 2080 hours = $15.38 per hour
Just above $15 an hour.
That number is the gross hourly income before taxes, insurance, 401K, or anything else is taken out. Net income is how much you deposit into your bank account.
You must check with your employer on how they plan to pay you. For those on salary, typically companies pay on a monthly, semi-monthly, biweekly, or weekly basis.
What If I Increased My Salary?
Just an interesting note… if you were to increase your annual salary by $11K to $43K per year, it would increase your hourly wage to over $20 an hour – a difference of $5.29 per hour.
To break it down – 43k a year is how much an hour = $20.67
That difference will help you fund your savings account; just remember every dollar adds up.
How Much is $32K salary Per Month?
On average, the monthly amount would be $2,667.
Annual Salary of $32,000 ÷ 12 months = $2,667 per month
This is how much you make a month if you get paid 32000 a year.
$32k a year is how much a week?
This is a great number to know! How much do I make each week? When I roll out of bed and do my job of $32k salary a year, how much can I expect to make at the end of the week for my effort?
Once again, the assumption is 40 hours worked.
Annual Salary of$32000/52 weeks = $615 per week.
$32000 a year is how much biweekly?
For this calculation, take the average weekly pay of $615 and double it.
This depends on how many hours you work in a day. For this example, we are going to use an eight-hour workday.
8 hours x 52 weeks = 260 working days
Annual Salary of$32000 / 260 working days = $123 per day
If you work a 10 hour day on 208 days throughout the year, you make $153 per day.
$32000 Salary is…
$32000 – Full Time
Total Income
Yearly Salary (52 weeks)
$32,000
Monthly Wage
$2,667
Weekly Salary (40 Hours)
$615
Bi-Weekly Wage (80 Hours)
$1,230
Daily Wage (8 Hours)
$123
Daily Wage (10 Hours)
$153
Hourly Wage
$15.38
Net Estimated Monthly Income
$2,036
Net Estimated Hourly Income
$11.75
**These are assumptions based on simple scenarios.
32k a year is how much an hour after taxes
Income taxes is one of the biggest culprits of reducing your take-home pay as well as FICA and Social Security. This is a true fact across the board with an all salary range up to $142,800.
When you make below the average household income, the amount of taxes taken out hurts your hourly wage.
Every single tax situation is different.
On the basic level, let’s assume a 12% federal tax rate and a 4% state rate. Plus a percentage is taken out for Social Security and Medicare (FICA) of 7.65%.
So, how much an hour is 32000 a year after taxes?
Gross Annual Salary: $32,000
Federal Taxes of 12%: $3,840
State Taxes of 4%: $1,280
Social Security and Medicare of 7.65%: $2,448
$32k Per Year After Taxes is $24,432.
This would be your net annual salary after taxes.
To turn that back into an hourly wage, the assumption is working 2,080 hours.
$24432 ÷ 2,080 hours = $11.75 per hour
After estimated taxes and FICA, you are netting $24,432 per year, which is $7,568 per year less than what you expect.
***This is a very high-level example and can vary greatly depending on your personal situation and potential deductions. Therefore, here is a great tool to help you figure out how much your net paycheck would be.***
In addition, if you live in a heavily taxed state like California or New York, then you have to pay way more money than somebody that lives in a no tax state like Texas or Florida. This is the debate of HCOL vs LCOL.
Thus, your yearly gross $32000 income can range from $21,872 to $25,712depending on your state income taxes.
That is why it is important to realize the impact income taxes can have on your take home pay. It is one of those things that you should acknowledge and obviously you need to pay taxes. But, it can also put a huge dent in your ability to live the lifestyle you want on a $32,000 income.
32k salary lifestyle
Every person reading this post has a different upbringing and a different belief system about money. Therefore, what would be a lavish lifestyle to one person, maybe a frugal lifestyle to another person. And there’s no wrong or right, it is what works best for you.
One of the biggest factors to consider is your cost of living.
In another post, we detailed the differences of living in an HCOL vs LCOL vs MCOL area. When you live in big cities, trying to maintain your lifestyle of $32,000 a year is going to be extremely difficult because your basic expenses, housing, transportation, food, and clothing are going to be much more expensive than you would find in a lower cost area.
To stretch your dollar further in the high cost of living area, you would have to probably live a very frugal lifestyle and prioritize where you want to spend money and where you do not. Whereas, if you live in a low cost of living area, you can afford the cost of living and maybe save more money. Thus, you have more fun spending left in your account each month.
As we noted earlier in the post, $32,000 a year is well below the average income that you would find in the United States. Thus, you have to be wise with how you spend your money.
What a $32,000 lifestyle will buy you:
If you are debt free and utilize smart money management skills, then you are able to enjoy the lifestyle you want.
You are able to rent in a decent neighborhood in LCOL.
You should be able to meet your basic expenses each and every month.
Not be able to afford many of the fun spending luxuries.
Start saving with the 200 envelope challenge.
Ability to make sure that saving money is a priority, and very possibly save $1000 in 52 weeks.
When A $32,000 Salary Will Hold you Back:
However, if you are riddled with debt or unable to break the paycheck to paycheck cycle, then living off of 32k a year is going to be pretty darn difficult.
There are two factors that will keep holding you back:
You must pay off debt and cut all fun spending and extra expenses.
Break the paycheck to paycheck cycle.
It is possible to get ahead with money!
It just comes with proper money management skills and a desire to have less stress around money. That is a winning combination regardless of your income level.
$32k Salary To Hourly
We calculated how much $32,000 a year is how much an hour with 40 hours a week. But, more than likely, you work more or fewer hours per week.
So, here is a handy calculator to figure out your exact hourly salary wage.
$32K a year Budget – Example
As always, here at Money Bliss, we focus on covering our basic expenses plus saving and giving first, and then our goal is to eliminate debt. The rest of the money leftover is left for fun spending.
If you want to know how to manage 32k salary the best, then this is a prime example for you to compare your spending.
You can compare your budget to the ideal household budget percentages.
recommended budget percentages based on $32000 a year salary:
Category
Ideal Percentages
Sample Monthly Budget
Giving
10%
$187
Savings
15-25%
$480
Housing
20-30%
$693
Utilities
4-7%
$107
Groceries
5-12%
$213
Clothing
1-4%
$16
Transportation
4-10%
$107
Medical
5-12%
$133
Life Insurance
1%
$10
Education
1-4%
$6
Personal
2-7%
$24
Recreation / Entertainment
3-8%
$60
Debts
0% – Goal
$0
Government Tax (including Income Tatumx, Social Security & Medicare)
15-25%
$631
Total Gross Monthly Income
$2,667
**In this budget, prioritization was given to basic expenses and no debt.
Is $32,000 a year a Good Salary?
As we stated earlier if you are able to make $32,000 a year, that is a low salary. You are making around or just above minimum wage.
While 32000 is a decent salary just starting out in your working years, it is a salary that you want to rapidly increase before your expenses go up or the people you provide for increase. If not, you will be left working multiple jobs to make ends meet.
However, too many times people get stuck in the lifestyle trap of trying to keep up with the Joneses, and their lifestyle desires get out of hand compared to their salary. And what they thought used to be a great salary actually is not making ends meet at this time.
This $32k salary would be considered a lower class salary. You must make each dollar count in your budget.
Check: Are you in the middle class?
In fact, this income level in the United States has enough buying power to put you in the top 95 percentile globally for per person income (source).
The question you need to ask yourself with your 32k salary is:
Am I maxed at the top of my career?
Is there more income potential?
What obstacles do I face if I want to try to increase my income?
In the future years and with possible inflation, in many modest cities a 32,000 a year is not a good salary because the cost of living is so high, whereas these are some of the cities where you can make a decent living at 32,000 per year.
If you are looking for a career change, you want to find jobs paying at least 35,000 a year.
Is 32k a good salary for a Single Person?
Simply put, you can make it work.
You can stretch your salary much further because you are only worried about your own expenses. A single person will spend much less than if you need to provide for someone else.
Learn exactly what is a good salary for a single person today.
Your living expenses and ideal budget are much less. Thus, you can live comfortably on $32000 per year.
And… most of us probably regret how much money wasted when we were single. Oh well, lesson learned.
Is 32k a good salary for a family?
Many of the same principles apply above on whether $32000 is a good salary. The main difference with a family, you have more people to provide for than when you are single or have just one other person in your household.
The costs of raising children are high and will steeply cut into your income. As you can tell this is a huge dent in your income, specifically $12,980 annually per child.
That means that amount of money is coming out of the income that you earned.
So, the question really remains is can you provide a good life for your family making $43,000 a year? This is the hardest part because each family has different choices, priorities, and values.
More or less, it comes down to two things:
The location where you live in.
Your lifestyle choices.
You can live comfortably as a family on this salary, but you will not be able to afford everything.
Many times when raising a family, it is helpful to have a dual-income household. That way you are able to provide the necessary expenses if both parties were making 32,000 per year, then the combined income for the household would be over $64,000. Thus making your combined salary a very good income.
Learn how much money a family of 4 needs in each state.
Can you Live on 32000 Per Year?
As we outlined earlier in the post, $32,000 a year:
$15.38 Per Hour
$123-153 Per Day (depending on length of day worked)
$615 Per Week
$1230 Per Biweekly
$2667 Per Month
Next up is making $35000 a year!
Like anything else in life, you get to decide how to spend, save and give your money.
That is the difference for each person on whether or not you can live a lower-class lifestyle depends on many potential factors. If you live in California or New Jersey you are gonna have a tougher time than Oklahoma or even Texas.
In addition, if you are early in your career, starting out around 30,000 a year, that is a-okay place to be getting your career. However, if you have been in your career for over 20 years and still making $32K, then you probably need to look at asking for pay increases, pick up a second job, or find a different career path.
Regardless of the wage that you make, if you are not able to live the lifestyle that you want, then you have to find ways to make it work for you. Everybody has choices to make.
But one of the things that can help you the most is to stick to our ideal household budget percentages to make sure you stay on track.
One of the best ways to improve your personal finance situation is to increase your income. Here are a variety of side hustles that are very lucrative. With time and effort, you can start enjoying the lifestyle you want.
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By Contributing Author6 Comments – The content of this website often contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you buy through those links (at no cost to you!). Learn more about how we make money. Last edited February 28, 2013.
There’s no doubt we live in the information age. I’ve heard it said that the average American consumes several gigabytes of information a day. With all of this knowledge at our fingertips, it can be difficult to find solutions when everyone is pointing in a different direction.
Learning to invest can be a difficult process for those who haven’t had a formal education. I know this because I haven’t had a formal education in investing, but I have found some great methodologies for getting up to speed quickly. In the beginning, I made several mistakes that I wish I could have avoided such as single stock investing.
By following these three simple tips you’ll be well on your way to wise investing.
Three Tips for Beginners
Meet with the professionals. Look up a few investment brokers in your area. Make a list of three offices to visit. Give them a call and let them know you are new to investing and would like to sit down and have a free lesson on what investments are and how to use them wisely. Most brokers will be willing to do this. Do not invest anything until you have met with these three brokers and have a few good perspectives on growing your money.
Follow biblical principles on investing and finance. Jay Peroni wrote a great article on BibleMoneyMatters.com regarding biblical finance and investing. Biblical principles on diversification, seeking advice, being diligent, and screening your investments will propel you to success.
Take your time and build a solid foundation! Don’t rush into an investment strategy. It is unwise to invest your money into something you don’t fully understand. If you can’t explain to a layperson what you’re investing into and how it works, you should probably hold off investing until you can. Also, don’t begin anything until you put into practice some foundational elements of financial freedom. A strong foundation will ensure your investments are safe from collapse.
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. -Proverbs 15:22 NIV
If you have the money to obtain a formal education in investments, you might consider signing up. But remember, investing does not require years of training. You’ll learn with time. The key is to be proactive and seek out solid financial advice before diving in. Don’t let the excuse of not having a formal education hinder your investing.
Everyone needs to save for retirement and pursue a sound financial footing. Surround yourself with knowledgeable, caring people and you’ll be on your way to investing with confidence. Investing is a powerful vehicle for building wealth.
The ability to compound your money with time is a mathematical wonder. After you have destroyed your non-mortgage debt, built your fully-funded emergency fund, and obtained the know-how on investing, you are ready for wealth-building. Are you ready?
This article was written by John Frainee, author at TheChristianDollar.com. His goal is to provide biblical financial principles that encourage people to live healthier lives.
Known for its natural beauty and rich history, West Virginia also boasts some of the most charming college towns in the country.
The West Virginia college towns featured in this article are full of life, culture and excitement, providing students and longtime locals alike with a truly stellar quality of life. From the Appalachian charm of Morgantown to the picturesque beauty of Shepherdstown, these towns have something for everyone.
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Morgantown is home to West Virginia University (WVU). With its lively arts scene and ample outdoor recreational resources, Morgantown is the perfect blend of urban sophistication and rustic beauty. As you wander through downtown, you will find a variety of unique shops, cafes and restaurants, many of which proudly display their support for the WVU Mountaineers.
The annual FallFest and Gold and Blue Games are just a few of the exciting events that showcase the strong community spirit in Morgantown. Whether you’re looking to explore the scenic trails at Coopers Rock State Forest or attend a lively concert at the Metropolitan Theatre, Morgantown offers countless unique experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Morgantown’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved historic districts, like Woodburn Circle and South Park. The Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit system provides easy access to the WVU campus, making it convenient for students to commute between classes and explore the town. With various festivals, including the West Virginia Wine and Jazz Festival and the Morgantown Art Walk, the city is an exciting destination for art lovers and foodies. As one of the most iconic college towns in West Virginia, Morgantown guarantees a memorable experience for all who visit.
Located along the Potomac River, Shepherdstown is home to Shepherd University. This quaint, historic town is known for its charming streets lined with brick sidewalks, beautiful 18th and 19th-century architecture and thriving arts scene. The town’s rich history is evident in landmarks like the Rumsey Monument, which commemorates the achievements of James Rumsey, an inventor and a resident of Shepherdstown. The Shepherdstown Opera House, which dates back to 1910, is another historic site that continues to be a hub for arts and entertainment.
The Shepherdstown community comes together throughout the year for various events and festivals, including the Contemporary American Theater Festival, the annual Appalachian Heritage Festival and the popular Christmas in Shepherdstown celebration. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the close proximity to the C&O Canal Towpath and the Appalachian Trail, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking and enjoying the great outdoors.
A small, friendly town in central West Virginia, Glenville is home to Glenville State College. The college is renowned for its academic programs in natural resource management, criminal justice and education. Glenville’s picturesque setting, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, offers a serene environment for students and outdoor enthusiasts to earn their degrees. Cedar Creek State Park, with its beautiful hiking trails, fishing opportunities and picnic areas, is a favorite among residents and visitors.
Glenville’s historic downtown district is a charming area featuring quaint shops, cozy restaurants and a beautiful courthouse square. The town hosts various events throughout the year, like the West Virginia State Folk Festival, which celebrates the state’s rich cultural heritage with traditional music, dance and crafts.
Situated along the Ohio River, Huntington is home to Marshall University. Known for its artsy population and beautiful parks, Huntington provides an enriching experience for all who visit. The city’s downtown area, featuring the historic Pullman Square, offers a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options. The arts scene in Huntington is showcased through venues like the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center and the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences, providing ample opportunities for cultural exploration.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Huntington, with the beautiful Ritter Park and its picturesque walking trails, as well as the expansive Harris Riverfront Park along the Ohio River. The annual ChiliFest and the Huntington Music and Arts Festival are just a few of the exciting events that bring the community together, making Huntington one of the most lively college towns in West Virginia.
Another charming college town in West Virginia, Buckhannon is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College. This picturesque town, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, has a welcoming atmosphere and an array of outdoor activities. The historic downtown area, with its beautiful red brick streets and quaint shops, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon strolling and enjoying the local charm. Buckhannon is also known for its colorful murals that adorn several buildings throughout the town, adding a unique touch of artistry to the cityscape.
Outdoorsy types will appreciate the numerous parks in and around Buckhannon, like the Buckhannon River Walk, a beautiful trail along the river and the nearby Audra State Park, with its hiking trails and scenic beauty. The annual West Virginia Strawberry Festival, a week-long celebration of the town’s agricultural heritage, features live music, parades and delicious local treats, attracting visitors from near and far. Buckhannon’s small-town charm and natural beauty make it an ideal college town in West Virginia for students from all walks of life.
Welcome to your new West Virginia college town
These charming college towns in West Virginia, each with its own unique character, offer a variety of experiences for students and visitors alike. From the bustling arts scene in Morgantown and Shepherdstown to the tranquil beauty of Glenville and Buckhannon, the towns above provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable college experience. So, whether you’re considering attending one of these universities or simply looking for a new place to explore, don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the best college towns in West Virginia.
If you never watch PBS’ “Frontline,” you’re missing out on some of the best journalism on TV. I don’t agree with every viewpoint they advocate, but each episode is thought-provoking and well done.
Recently, “Frontline” focused on “The Retirement Gamble,” as they titled the piece. It can be summed up by this quote by Zvi Bodie, a professor of management at Boston University: “401(k) plans really place the burden on the individual participant to have an adequate retirement. And the vast majority of ordinary people don’t know how to do that.”
It’s true. As if you don’t have enough going on in your life, you have to become a part-time financial planner and investment manager. You need to figure out how much to save, how to invest your savings, and how to withdraw it in a way that makes it last forever or until you die, whichever comes first.
Of course, you can always get help from the financial-services industry — in particular, the mutual fund providers, since those are the type of investments in most workers’ retirement plans. However, many of these folks are padding their own retirement accounts at the expense of yours. Here’s how economist Teresa Ghilarducci explained it to “Frontline”: “The 401(k) is one of the only products that Americans buy that they don’t know the price of it. It’s also one of the products that Americans buy that they don’t even know its quality. It’s one of the products that Americans buy that they don’t know its danger. And it’s because the industry — the mutual fund industry — has been able to protect themselves against regulation that would expose the danger and price of their products.”
I’ll add another shortfall of the 401(k) industrial complex: You don’t have a choice. The 401(k) is chosen by your employer, who might be keeping costs low by passing the costs along to you. I’m on the 401(k) committee at The Motley Fool, and I can tell you that it does indeed cost an employer money and time to provide a retirement plan; it’s not as easy as opening an IRA with a discount broker. The plan has to meet all kinds of government-mandated tests to make sure that the plan doesn’t disproportionately benefit higher-income employers and owners. So companies that offer a retirement plan deserve some level of gratitude, especially if they match employee contributions. But that doesn’t mean these companies spend the time and money necessary to make it the best plan possible.
Then there are the funds themselves. The “Frontline” episode included an interview with one of my heroes, Vanguard founder John Bogle. His best quote: “Do you really want to invest in a system where you put up 100 percent of the capital … you take 100 percent of the risk, and you get 30 percent of the return?”
Where did the other 70 percent of return go? To the fund companies, due to high fees and low performance — in Bogle’s words, “The magic of compound returns is overwhelmed by the tyranny of compounding costs. It’s a mathematical fact. There’s no getting around it.”
My picking of bones
While I generally agree with “Frontline’s” call to arms regarding the malfeasance of the mutual fund industry, there are a couple of counter-points I would have liked to see them address. First off, the episode recommends index funds over actively managed funds, featuring more footage of John Bogle, one of the main figures in the birth of index funds. However, it would be interesting to ask him why Vanguard itself has had actively managed funds for decades. Perhaps even the most famous advocate for index investing sees some value in paying a fund manager to pick the investments. And, to Vanguard’s credit, the expenses on their actively managed funds are very low. I know because I own a few of them, including a few of their index funds.
The “Frontline” episode also had its nostalgia for the good, old days of defined-benefit pensions, when an employer would reward an employee after decades of service with a monthly check in retirement for life. Like many shows that bemoan the state of retirement in America, they clearly argue that those are better than 401(k)s. However, the truth is that these pensions have their own issues. First off, even at their peak, most Americans didn’t have a pension. At least with a 401(k), workers can save for retirement in a tax-advantaged account, something they didn’t have before these accounts became prevalent in the ’80s. Also, a traditional pension mainly benefited employees who worked for the same company for decades. If you left within, say, five years (as was the case when I was a teacher), you got nothing. The money in a 401(k), however, can be taken with you.
Plus, many pensions don’t have enough money to pay future benefits and are assuming (nay, praying) that unrealistically high investment returns will bail them out. Private pensions are backstopped by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, but that “safety net” itself is underfunded by more than $20 billion. Government pensions are backed by taxes, and they’re going to hit hard as more and more Boomers retire. So defined-benefit pensions are not the panacea as they’re often portrayed, often using film footage from the ’50s (as “Frontline” did).
Finally, the episode featured interviews with everyday Americans who have little in the way of retirement savings, portraying them as victims of the mutual fund companies. In many ways, they most definitely were. Yet, as these people sit in their kitchens and living rooms, explaining their predicaments to the camera, I can’t help but notice that they have nice furniture, large-screen TVs and cable. I admit that this is a bit callous of me, but I do have a little less sympathy for people with little in savings but plenty of luxuries. (Yes, cable TV is a luxury.)
Carpe 401(k)-em
The good news for you is that you’re taking control; you’re reading this blog and probably other sources of financial education. Hopefully you’re learning how to save for, and spend in, retirement, and how to evaluate mutual funds along the way. Planning your retirement is up to you; no one is doing it for you. Financial advisers have their place, as long as they’re fee-only and fiduciaries (i.e., legally obligated to put your interests first — a standard that doesn’t apply to the large majority of financial advisers). But however you manage your finances, ensure that it’s doing more for your retirement than someone else’s.