Many people want to be rich or make a lot of money. However, most of those people will never do any research on how to make money or how money works. If you want to make a lot of money you need to learn about money! You can’t just hope and pray that someday a lot of money happens to fall in your lap. A lot of people also make a good income but have nothing to show for it. Being rich or wealthy is not just about making money but learning how to keep it and invest it as well.
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Do you know much about money?
Most people think they know about money and we all know a little bit about money but very few of us know a lot about money. Very few of us study money. I have a business finance degree and even with that degree I did not learn that much about money. I learned the basics about economics and inflation, and investing, but it was all pretty basic stuff even with a four-year degree in finance.
There are people who have much more education in the finance world than me and you may ask why should you listen to me? Not only do I have some education in finance but I have started, run, and bought multiple businesses in the real world and been fairly successful. Even with higher education, you miss a lot of the real-world education needed to fully understand money. I still don’t know everything but I have learned a lot over the years and like to teach others.
What are the bare necessities you should know about money?
There are so many things to know about money. I am not sure anyone could ever learn it all. Not only are there the basics of money but there are new concepts appearing all the time like crypto. If someone did learn it all it would not take long for something new to pop that they would have to learn as well. My point here is not to overwhelm you but to let you know you don’t have to know everything and don’t get overwhelmed with how many different topics about money there are.
If you learn one thing new, you are better off than you were before. We can all benefit from learning and you don’t need to know everything.
Here are some topics that everyone should know about:
Interest: Interest rates you are charged and how to make money with interest as well
Budgets: What are you spending your money on
Income: How to make money with a career, side gigs, businesses, etc
Inflation: How it impacts you and how to use it to your advantage
Leverage: How using loans can increase your returns
Debt: How using the right debt can make you money while the wrong debt can be very dangerous
Investing: Many people make a lot of money each year but have nothing to show for it, learning to invest is just as important as making money.
Cars, housing, material goods: Buying a house is usually the best choice and most people need a car but what kind of cars or houses should you buy and when?
Education: Many people assume college is the best route but it may not be the route everyone should or wants to take. Education can be very expensive and crippling financially.
These are a few of the topics everyone should know about but there are even more depending on what you want to do and what your goals are. It is not easy to learn about money and it is not easy to make a lot of it and invest it so that you grow it.
Who should you learn about money from?
The tough part about learning the ins and outs of money is there is so much information out there. There are many paths and everyone claims theirs is the right way. I will start by saying there is no best way or right way for everyone. We all have different goals and work in different manners. There are people that tell you all debt is bad and even that credit scores are not needed. This strategy may work for some people, but it is a horrible strategy for others.
Using debt on real estate made me many millions of dollars. If I had paid cash for everything there is no way I would be where I am today. Debt can also get people into a lot of trouble if they do not have the discipline to handle it. I also love exotic cars and needed to find ways to make a lot of money to fulfill my dreams. Others may have much different dreams that don’t need any money at all.
I think if you are looking to learn about money, try to learn from those who resonate with you the best. Don’t choose someone because other people are or they advertise the most. Search out people who teach about money, learn how they made their money, and if that is similar to what you want to do, see what you can learn from them. I also see a lot of people out there giving money advice who never did what they teach and make almost all of their money from giving that advice that they never lived.
How should you learn about money?
You can learn about money through many different sources:
Books
Blogs
YouTube
Social Media
Movies
Friends/Family
Courses./seminars
I have learned about money through all of these sources. I have read many books, some good and some bad but I always try to take away at least one thing from each book I read. I have read many articles on money (and written them as well). The problem with articles and videos is anyone can write them or create them who may know what they are talking about or have no clue. I love watching movies about money and success and seeing what the characters do. Again, this must be taken with a grain of salt because they are mostly fiction. Friends and family have given me a lot of advice as well but not all of it was good advice. I have also taken courses, paid for masterminds, and attended seminars to learn about money and real estate. I have even spoken at a few as well. These can be a great source of education but you must also be careful as seminars can lead to massively expensive courses with little information.
We all like to learn in different ways and I would start with the medium that works best for you but don’t be lazy and pick the easiest one. I think it is also important to find the people who resonate the best with you. If they don’t offer the medium you prefer you might have to bite the bullet and get out of your comfort zone.
Do you want to learn from me?
I may or may not be the person you want to learn about money from. If you are super conservative and just want a paid-off house, there may be other people who fit the bill better. If you are looking to make some big jumps in your finances as far as investing and earning I may be able to help you out. Nothing is guaranteed and there is no get-rich-quick scheme but there are ways to speed things up. I have used them personally and I continue to use them to this day as I am an active real estate investor with multiple businesses. I have written 10 books, most on real estate but I have one on money and mindset.
How to Change Your Mindset to Achieve Huge Success: Why your attitude and daily habits have more to do with making more money and having more freedom than anything else.
I also created an affordable, in-depth course about money as well which includes all the subjects I listed above and then some. Don’t worry, it is not thousands of dollars or even hundreds of dollars. I made it affordable because I think everyone should know about money.
InvestFourMore Money Mastery >> (just a $49 1-time payment)
With about half of the city sitting just above sea level, New Orleans is a city that captures the imagination and hearts of visitors from around the world. Known for its melting pot culture, event-filled history and unique blend of influences, it’s a place like no other. From the iconic French Quarter to the lively music scene to the upscale appeal of the Garden District, there’s something special about the Big Easy that keeps people coming back for more.
Take a stroll through Crescent City with us along the Mississippi River, up and down Canal Street, through the heart of the French Quarter and straight through the Central Business District to finally answer the question, what is New Orleans known for and what makes it one of the most desirable cities to call home in the entire United States?
The French Quarter: A must-do experience
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without exploring the French Quarter, or Vieux Carré. As the city’s oldest neighborhood, the French Quarter is a treasure trove of stunning architecture, fascinating history and, of course, a great atmosphere. While Bourbon Street and Royal Street may be the most famous thoroughfares in the French Quarter, there’s so much more to discover.
Take a stroll along Royal Street lined with colorful buildings adorned with intricate wrought iron balconies. Architecture buffs should add a quick trip to Louis Cathedral to their itineraries. Immerse yourself in the unmatched atmosphere of Jackson Square and Bourbon Street, where you’ll find Marie Laveau selling voodoo dolls and more out of her beloved Voodoo store.
All around this upbeat area, artists display their work, street performers entertain passersby and New Orleans culture shines brightly. Jackson Square is also a hot spot for paranormal enthusiasts with ghost sightings and voodoo dolls from Marie Laveau not an uncommon sight. Don’t miss the chance to sample the city’s signature beignets and café au lait at the world-famous Café du Monde in the French Market area.
Frenchmen Street: Where music comes alive
Adjacent to the French Quarter, the Marigny neighborhood is home to Frenchmen Street, a haven for music lovers. Here, you’ll find a string of live music venues showcasing a variety of genres, from New Orleans jazz and blues to reggae and rock. Spotted Cat and d.b.a. are just a couple of the many spots where you can catch talented French Louisiana musicians in action.
As you explore Frenchmen Street, you’ll also discover a stellar food scene. From creole delicacies to shaved ice to cajun cooking and more, there’s food to satisfy the cravings of any and all New Orleans residents, especially in the French Market district. Soak up the energetic atmosphere as you dine and enjoy the music that fills the air, and remember, you’re just a short hop away from all the attractions, live music and delicious food in the French Quarter.
The National WWII Museum: A journey through history
Immerse yourself in history at the National WWII Museum, a world-class complex that pays tribute to the heroes and stories of World War II. With award-winning exhibits, including actual planes, jeeps and Higgins Boats, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the war and its impact on the countries involved. Experience the era through interactive displays, theater presentations and personal accounts of those who lived through it.
Magazine Street: A shopper’s paradise
If shopping is your passion, make sure to explore Magazine Street. This six-mile stretch is brimming with local boutiques, art galleries and antique shops. From fashion and home decor to jewelry and antiques, you’ll find treasures at every turn. Take a break from shopping and indulge in a meal at one of the many restaurants that offer sidewalk dining or enjoy a quick walking tour through Audubon Park.
City Park: Nature’s oasis
Escape the hustle and bustle of Crescent City and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of City Park. Spanning over 1,300 acres, this lush green space is dotted with moss-drenched centuries-old oak trees, peaceful walking paths and native wildlife.
Rent a swan boat and glide across the Big Lake, take a walking tour of the Botanical Garden or unleash your inner child at Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. For a unique experience, hike the Couturie Forest, a nature trail that leads you to Laborde Mountain, the highest point in New Orleans at 27 feet above sea level.
New Orleans Museum of Art: A haven for art enthusiasts
Located within City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is the place to be for artsy types. With over 40,000 pieces in its collection, the museum showcases a wide range of artwork, from Italian Renaissance masterpieces to modern works.
Marvel at the works of Monet, Degas, Rodin and O’Keefe, as well as glass, ceramics and an extensive photography collection. Take a stroll through the adjacent Sydney and Walda Bestoff Sculpture Garden, where the obsessively landscaped grounds showcase an array of sculptures.
Café du Monde: A taste of New Orleans
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without indulging in the city’s food. And when it comes to iconic food experiences, Café du Monde takes the cake.
Since 1862, this French Quarter fixture has been serving up the best café au lait and hot, fresh beignets. Witness the magic happening in the kitchen through the window as these delicious treats are prepared. If you don’t leave with powdered sugar all over your shirt, you didn’t do it right.
Lafitte Greenway: A luscious green getaway
For a leisurely walking tour or bike ride, head to the Lafitte Greenway. This 2.6-mile linear park stretches from City Park to the edge of the French Quarter and is a green oasis in the heart of the city.
The paved path takes you on a scenic tour past playgrounds, native landscaping, art installations and athletic fields. Along the way, you’ll find breweries, coffee shops and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the energy of New Orleans in the summer.
Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience: A unique perspective
Explore a different side of Southern history at the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience. This recently opened museum tells the story of Jewish Americans in thirteen Southern states from colonial times to the present.
Discover how Jewish communities integrated into the culture of their new surroundings and shared their own traditions with predominantly Christian communities. Through exhibits and interactive displays, gain a deeper understanding of this often overlooked aspect of Southern heritage.
Algiers Ferry: A scenic ride
For a unique perspective of the city, hop aboard the Algiers Ferry at the foot of Canal Street. This short ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the New Orleans skyline. Once you reach the other side, explore the charming neighborhood of Algiers Point.
With its picturesque homes, oak-lined streets and cozy cafes and bars, it’s the perfect place to wander and soak in the sights and sounds of a different New Orleans than you’re used to seeing in TV and movies.
Streetcars: A journey through history
No visit to New Orleans is complete without a ride on the city’s historic streetcars. While the famous Desire line from Tennessee Williams’ play may be a thing of the past, the current streetcar lines offer a charming way to explore the city and a convenient alternative to a walking tour.
Hop on the red streetcars that run to Mid-City or the original green cars that traverse St. Charles Avenue, passing through the beautiful Garden District and Audubon Park. Take in the stunning architecture and enjoy the slowed-down pace as you soak up the sights and sounds of the city.
Mardi Gras: Behind the scenes of carnival
Discover the magic behind Mardi Gras at Mardi Gras World. Located near the Convention Center, this unique attraction offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the spectacular floats that roll in the Carnival parades and other Mardi Gras events around the city.
Take a tour of the workshop and see the talented artists and craftsmen in action. Marvel at the intricate designs and loud colors that bring the parades to life. Whether it’s Mardi Gras season or not, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of this iconic New Orleans celebration.
Garden District: A stroll through elegance
Upriver from the French Quarter lies the Garden District, a neighborhood renowned for its grand mansions and historic cemeteries. Needless to say, it’s a much calmer vibe than what you’ll find on Bourbon Street and is ideal for a walking tour with the family. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of the district and admire the stunning 19th-century architecture.
As you wander the streets, you’ll discover charming shops, cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to dine at Commander’s Palace, a New Orleans institution known for its exceptional cuisine and elegant atmosphere, or check out one of the many community events hosted throughout the year, especially in spring and summer.
Find a new place in New Orleans
Whether you’re a potential renter or buyer, New Orleans is a city that captivates the imagination and leaves a lasting impression on all who set foot on its storied streets. From the city’s killer live music scene and mouthwatering food to the rich history and entirely unique culture, there is so much to discover and experience in NOLA.
Whether you’re exploring the French Quarter and its beloved Bourbon Street, marveling at the beauty of Louis Cathedral, wondering at the wrought iron balconies, indulging in the French culture at Café du Monde, sitting pretty in the Garden District or immersing yourself in the history of World War II at the National WWII Museum, New Orleans offers a unique and unforgettable experience. So, dive into the spirit of the Big Easy and uncover what makes Crescent City truly special today.
Ready to settle down in the Big Easy? Good news, you’re just a few clicks away.
Have you ever been sitting around with your friends and heard everyone talking about something they have done that you haven’t? We’ve all experienced a certain level of embarrassment when we realize that the people around us have had some experience we missed out on. Well, don’t worry because today we will unveil the top twenty everyday things everybody has done… except YOU! That’s right: You may not have hiked mountains or traveled the world, but trust us—there are plenty of experiences and opportunities for growth out there that can easily spice up your life.
So get ready to explore some of the most fun things to do—from social media to common adventures! It’s time for an unforgettable journey through some amazing experiences.
1. Trick-Or-Treating as a Child
One user shared, “Gone trick-or-treating as a child. It was forbidden by my church, so my parents would shut out all of our lights, and my brother and I would sit up in his room and watch all the other kids walking around in their costumes. I have my own kids now, and we trick-or-treat, carve pumpkins, give out candy… the whole nine yards.”
Another user asked, “Do you dress up with your kids and get candy now??”
The OP answered, “I’ve dressed up a few times… one year, my kids were the perfect ages for us to dress as the Incredibles, and it was epic. I even cut/dyed my hair just like ElastiGirl because I was so excited. And yes, I know what wigs are, but it wasn’t that much of a stretch from what I had then.”
2. Snapping Your Fingers
One Redditor posted, “I can’t snap my fingers…”
Another user commented, “Now I’m really curious if it’s a physical situation that limits how your fingers move, or if people have been explaining the moves wrong… Can you fold your ring finger so that its fingertip sits roughly in the middle of the blob of muscle on the palm below the thumb?
“And can you kind of press that fingertip into that muscle to make that finger’s end joint flatten out roughly straight?
“Propping the 3rd finger against the thumb will create that small gap between the base of the thumb & ring finger’s fingertip. Can you aim your middle finger to fly to fill that gap — when the thumb abruptly slides out of the way and lets the ‘spring-loaded’ middle finger fly there?”
Another user commented, “Well, I just snapped for the first time in my 34 years of living!”
3. Breaking a Bone
One user shared, “Prob break a bone; it at least seems common since I’ve seen tons of people with broken bones in school (Brace, cast, crutch, etc.).”
Another user commented, “I never broke a bone til I was 41. I tripped, caught myself and broke my elbow.”
One added, “Well, that’s bizarre. Same exact thing. It was two years ago when I was 41. The first bone break was my elbow (radial head fracture) after slipping on ice and trying to catch myself. Best part? The term for that type of fall is a FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand). So, my wife erupted in laughter and decided to call me a footbag, which was the best way to ease my pain at the urgent care…”
5. Moving Out of Your Childhood Home
“Move out of my childhood home,” shared one user.
Another Redditor commented, “There was a guy in my neighbourhood growing up who was around 70. He lived in the same house he grew up in and still drove his first car, an old … pickup.
“He was a cool old dude. He also told me his dog was the same one he had growing up, and I was little and susceptible, so it filled me with hope and joy about my dog. I think he underestimated my stupidity and felt terrible, so he told me the dog was different.”
6. Having a Messed up Nose
One user commented, “Had a nosebleed.”
Another user added, “Think I probably had your share.”
One Redditor said, “I’ve never had one either, and I have been punched in the nose a few times and nothing.”
7. Walking On Two Legs
“Walk on two legs. I walk just fine, but with a prosthesis,” one Redditor posted.
Another user commented, “Prosthesis etiquette question: Is it considered rude to compliment someone on a prosthesis with a neat design? I saw a guy with the coolest Spiderman-themed leg, but I had no idea whether it was okay to mention it.”
One user replied, “Amputee here. Most would be cool with that. If they have Spiderman on their leg, you’re probably fine. For those that it’s a sensitive subject, they will go to great lengths to hide their prosthesis.”
8. Rolling Your R’s
“Rolled my r’s,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “Dude, my 8-month-old daughter learned she could do it a few days ago and hasn’t stopped since. Instead of crying, we just get really long rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr cries.”
9. Breaking Bad Cycles
One user shared his story of resilience, “I grew up in a [drug] household. My dad. My sister’s. My brother. Their SOs and friends. My boyfriends later on. My sister’s kids. All methods are out all the time.
I was the only one with a job, trying to sleep and eat like an average person. It was crazy. My nephew in prison has asked me numerous times why I never did it. Dude, what? It’s not like they made it look good or fun. Jesus
“Edit to add: holy moly, guys! I didn’t realize this post would get so much attention! Thanks for the well wishes and the awards. I survived, and I’m doing great, given the circumstances. I can’t say the same for all the rest of the family. My sister and BIL did get clean, but unfortunately, two of my nephews did not. One is in prison, and one is off the grid, strung out on meth, living on the street pretending he is Rambo. But I’m proof the cycle can be broken. Thanks again for everything.”
10. Pooping Your Pants as an Adult
One Redditor posted, “[Crapped] my pants as an adult. I know it’s coming, and I consider myself privileged.”
One user shared, “As someone who [messes] their pants way more often than any adult should admit to, I find this comment hilarious. You have it coming in. ETA: Thanks for the award! Now I can say I have an award-winning story!”
One user added, “Broke my unbeaten run of not messing my big boy pants going through chemo. It’s ridiculous enough that you’ve just got to laugh. Funny, though, I mentioned it at work, and while all the guys present were willing to hold their hands up and admit to it happening to them at some point/share stories and have a laugh about it, even the usually stoic and serious guy who doesn’t open up was willing to, which was a surprise…
“All of the women present strongly denied having any experience of it. I don’t believe the numbers. I wonder if this trend of being willing to admit to it holds true as a split between the sexes across the board. Just one of those random occurrences that gives you pause for thought.”
11. Getting Stung by a Bee
“Gotten stung by a bee/wasp,” posted by one user.
Another commenter added, “Same here, still deathly afraid of them.”
One Redditor shared, “It’s nowhere near as bad as you learn as a kid unless you have an allergy. People grow up learning to fear them from kids, but it’s really super minor by adult standards. The initial sting of a wasp is a surprise, and then it’s just sore like a cross between a sunburn and a really big sore mosquito bite minus the itch.”
One replied, “It’s not so bad until you get stung for the first time on your bottom lip the day before your wedding from a bee that decided it was a good idea to climb down the straw sticking out of your tasty, tasty cocktail… Actually, I guess in the end, it was a plus… it was like 24 hours of lip filler for the bottom lip.”
12 Going Skinny Dipping
One user shared, “Skinny dip. And I’m over 60. So disappointed. Never had the opportunity.”
Another user commented, “There’s still time.”
13. Going to Prom
“Been to prom,” one Redditor shared.
Another user commented, “Me too. But it’s all good.”
One commenter shared, “Me too. Unlike what Pretty in Pink made me believe, I have no regrets, and I literally never think of it.”
14. Whistling
One user posted, “Whistled.”
Another user commented, “I have to inhale to whistle. Can’t exhale to do it.”
One Redditor added, “I’ve finally found my people.”
Another user replied, “As a fellow inhaler, I find I can whistle much higher notes than those who exhale. Losers.”
15. Getting Drunk
One user posted, “I’ve never been drunk.”
Another user confirmed, “Me neither. Didn’t discover my gluten allergy until after college. I have visual migraines (kind of like hallucinations during a bad trip) as part of my gluten reaction. I always thought I was a super lightweight—two sips of beer, and I’d feel awful and thought I was super drunk. Since then, I honestly just associate the taste so strongly with that reaction that I can hardly smell it without feeling repulsed. It also triggers my depression for bonus points. No, thank you.”
16. Flying
One Redditor shared, “Got on a plane.”
Another user replied, “I’ve gone up in a plane but have never landed in one, lol. The only time I ever got in a plane was when my boss paid for us all to do this ‘bonding’ thing, which turned out to be skydiving.”
17. Having Surgery
“I have never had surgery,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “I was doing pretty well on this until a couple of years ago when I needed surgery to keep my insides from becoming outsides. The surgery was way better than the recovery.”
One commenter added, “I’ve got you covered. I’ve had enough of them to balance the scales.”
18. Using a Dating App
One user posted, “Used a dating app.”
Another user replied, “Have been married for almost two decades. Based on all the hoops, it looks like heterosexual men are jumping through just to get a date on these apps; if I ever end up single, I guess I’m just staying single and celibate.”
One user disagreed and said, “It’s not as bad as many guys say. You just need to keep yourself clean and well-groomed and work on your knowledge of socializing. And if that doesn’t work, lower your standards. I’ve seen a lot of stories on Reddit where someone has a friend who can’t get a date, but their standards are way too high. It’s like going on a dating app and only tapping yes to the ones you find super attractive.
“Sure, you should be attracted to your partner, but many people focus on the flaws and have this image in their mind of this perfect, flawless partner that simply isn’t out there because we’re all human and have flaws.”
19. Paying Credit Card Interest
One user shared, “Paid a penny of credit card interest.”
Another user also added, “Same here. I was always taught credit cards are for building credit and getting points. Never actually treat them as buying something on credit.”
One commenter replied, “Same. I use my credit card a lot because I want that cash back, but it’s always paid off at the end of the month.”
20. Going On TikTok
One Redditor shared, “Been on Tiktok.”
Another added, “Never have and never will.”
One commenter replied, “Yeah, I am trying to leave half of the social media, not join more.”
Another user said, “I agree. I quit FB a couple of years ago. I’ve never had anything else. I’ve been on Reddit a lot the last couple of days. Maybe I’m getting lonely. lol.”
Do you have a common thing you haven’t done and would like to share? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Reddit.
10 Actors Perfectly Cast for Their Character Roles
Have you ever watched a movie or show and been completely lost in it because of how well an actor or actress became their character? Check out this article for a whole list of actors who were perfectly cast!
11 Vampire Movies That Will Make You Thirst for More
You know that feeling where you’re on a movie kick in a certain genre, but you seem to run out of good movies to watch? Well, if you’re down for a vampire movie or three, check out this article for the best ones out there!
10 Incredible Movies That People Rated 10 Out of 10
It’s pretty hard to replicate the experience of watching your favorite movie for the first time, but we’ve put together a list of movies that people have rated at a perfect 10/10. Next time you need a good movie to watch, check this out!
10 Famous People Who Canceled Themselves With Their Own Stupidity
We’ve all been there: you make a comment you haven’t thought through at all, and the whole room goes silent at what you’ve just said. But can you imagine doing that as a famous person—and getting canceled? Check out this list of celebrities who did just that!
13 Things You Shouldn’t Do When You’re in the US
Are you planning a trip to the US? Culture varies a lot between countries, even countries that share borders. So if you’re headed to the good old U. S. of A, here are a few pointers to make your travels go more smoothly!
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.
A person’s credit score can impact their finances positively and negatively. Entities from commercial banks to auto loan lenders uses credit scores to determine if they’re willing to trust an applicant. FICOⓇ and VantageScoreⓇ, the two most popular scoring models, assign credit scores from 300 to 850—and higher scores typically pave the way for more lucrative deals.
Whether you have no credit history whatsoever or you’re looking to improve your current credit standing, everyone has the power to work on their credit. There is no set timeline for how long it can take to improve your credit, as everyone’s individual circumstances are different. Keep that in mind as we share 15 of the best ways to work to build credit fast in 2024.
Key takeaways
Making timely payments can help you more quickly build credit since payment history makes up 35 percent of your FICO credit score.
Becoming an authorized user on another credit card can help improve your score over time.
Removing errors on your credit report can help your score most accurately reflect your credit history.
Table of contents:
1. Apply for credit builder loans
Any kind of loan you secure can help you build credit if you make payments on time and in full. However, credit builder loans specifically exist to help borrowers improve their credit. If approved, applicants will pay into a secured account that they can only access at the end of their term.
Pro tip: A lender will normally approve low- or no-credit borrowers for a credit builder loan, but anyone can apply regardless of their standing.
2. Build credit with rent payments
Building credit with rent payments can be especially effective for individuals with no credit history. Your timely rent payments won’t raise your score automatically, as landlords don’t typically report rent payments to the credit bureaus. Instead, you’ll need to find a rent reporting service that can add your payments to your credit report.
Pro tip: You can enroll in rent reporting services with any of the three major credit bureaus: EquifaxⓇ, ExperianⓇ and TransUnionⓇ.
3. Maintain your oldest accounts
A person’s credit age, or length of credit history, makes up 15 percent of your FICOscore. This means that closing an old account can lower your score by reducing your overall credit age. If you have an old credit card, even if you don’t regularly use it, it’s usually best to keep that account open.
Pro tip: You can call your credit card issuer and request that the annual fee be waived on an old card.
4. Apply for a retail credit card
Stores and online vendors that offer retail credit cards can help you quickly build credit if you’re a frequent shopper, with one important caveat: you must use the card responsibly. These cards may come with unique bonuses like cashback rewards or discounts. Just be careful not to overspend so you’re able to pay your balance off in full every month.
Pro tip: Retail cards can benefit frequent shoppers who also have the funds to pay off their debts quickly.
5. Challenge errors on your credit report
Credit reports are intended to reflect your spending habits, but no system is perfect. Sometimes, a payment you’ve made doesn’t get reported on time or you notice inaccuracies elsewhere on your report, like an account you never opened. Lexington Law Firm can check your credit report for errors or discrepancies and challenge them on your behalf.
Pro tip: You can request one free credit report annually from each of the three credit bureaus.
6. Apply for a secured credit card
Secured credit cards traditionally have lower interest rates and higher credit limits than unsecured cards. The caveat is that borrowers will have to put down collateral to be eligible, but responsibly using secured cards can significantly improve your credit.
Pro tip: For secured credit cards, collateral comes in the form of the cash deposit you make when you first open the account.
7. Use a credit monitoring service
Credit monitoring services can help borrowers get a better sense of what’s happening on their credit profile. Many services can also dispute errors and take action if they detect fraudulent activity. Lexington Law Firm offers credit monitoring services and other features like ID Theft Insurance and help with challenging errors on credit reports.
Pro tip: Lexington Law Firm also provides free credit assessments to help you understand which services might benefit you the most.
8. Make timely payments
Payment history accounts for roughly 35 percent of your FICO credit score and about 40 percent of your VantageScore. Consistently making payments on time will display your financial reliability and responsibility to lenders and credit bureaus.
Pro tip: Using autopay can reduce instances of forgetting to make payments on time.
9. Increase your credit limit
Your credit utilization ratio weighs your current account balances against your total credit limit. Increasing your credit limit can give you more breathing room when borrowing funds. Borrowing $500 with a $1,000 limit would give you a 50 percent utilization rate. Borrowing $500 with a $2,000 limit would give you a 25 percent utilization rate.
Pro tip: It’s best to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30 percent if you can.
10. Become an authorized user on another account
Becoming an authorized user on another account lets you borrow funds on a credit card that you may not have access to otherwise. Positive action on that account can affect everyone who’s linked to it—and the same goes for negative habits. You can become an authorized user on another account even if you have no or bad credit history, provided you have the primary account holder’s permission.
Pro tip: It’s best to only become an authorized user on an account where the cardholder already has good or better credit.
11. Acquire a student credit card
Student credit cards typically have less stringent requirements than their grown-up alternatives. Responsibly using these cards can help new borrowers prove their creditworthiness.
Pro tip: Student card requirements normally include enrollment at qualifying institutions, proof of income or a cosigner and no bad credit history.
12. Use a rapid rescoring service
It takes varying amounts of time for changes to be added to your credit report. Rapid rescoring for a mortgage can help your credit by quickly updating your credit report with new information. For a fee, a mortgage lender can pay credit reporting companies to expedite the reporting process for someone who’s looking to take out a home loan.
Pro tip: It can generally take roughly 30 to 45 days for a change to appear on your credit report.
13. Meet with a financial advisor
While it’s becoming increasingly easy to access financial information, not everyone has the years of experience needed to add context to that information. Financial advisors can offer tailored strategies to help clients reach specific goals and improve their credit standing.
Pro tip: You can find a financial advisor to meet with online if you don’t want to meet with one in person.
14. Download credit-building apps
Credit-building apps can help borrowers improve their scores in various ways. Some apps can provide custom recommendations based on the data you provide them. Others can offer incentives and in-app rewards to help promote better financial habits.
Pro tip: Many commercial banks offer free apps with credit-building features.
15. Use a credit builder card
Much like a credit builder loan, this option helps low- and no-credit borrowers increase their standing. Credit builder cards function just like normal cards, but they usually come with more stringent limits like higher interest rates and lower overall limits.
Pro tip: Credit builder cards often have more lenient eligibility requirements than other commercial bank cards.
Improve your credit knowledge with Lexington Law Firm
We’ve outlined some of the best ways to build credit fast in this guide, but there’s still plenty of additional information that could help you increase your financial literacy. Learning how to read a credit report and knowing which factors affect your credit score are vital long-term skills. Lexington Law Firm’s team of professionals can help you gain a better understanding of your credit profile. Get your free credit assessment today.
Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.
Reviewed By
Nature Lewis
Associate Attorney
Before joining Lexington Law as an Associate Attorney, Nature Lewis managed a successful practice representing tenants in Maricopa County.
Through her representation of tenants, Nature gained experience in Federal law, Family law, Probate, Consumer protection and Civil law. She received numerous accolades for her dedication to Tenant Protection in Arizona, including, John P. Frank Advocate for Justice Award in 2016, Top 50 Pro Bono Attorney of 2015, New Tenant Attorney of the Year in 2015 and Maricopa County Attorney of the Month in March 2015. Nature continued her dedication to pro bono work while volunteering at Community Legal Services’ Volunteer Lawyer’s Program and assisting victims of Domestic Violence at the local shelter. Nature is passionate about providing free knowledge to the underserved community and continues to hold free seminars about tenant rights and plans to incorporate consumer rights in her free seminars. Nature is a wife and mother of 5 children. She and her husband have been married for 24 years and enjoy traveling internationally, watching movies and promoting their indie published comic books!
Looking for the best fun jobs that pay well? Many people dream of having a job they love that also pays well. I completely get it – you don’t want to hate working a job that you’ll be at 40 hours a week! I’m very grateful to have a job that I love. I don’t…
Looking for the best fun jobs that pay well?
Many people dream of having a job they love that also pays well. I completely get it – you don’t want to hate working a job that you’ll be at 40 hours a week!
I’m very grateful to have a job that I love. I don’t dread any day of the week, and I genuinely love what I do. Due to that, I hope everyone gets to feel the same about their job as well.
Thankfully, it’s easy to find a job that lets you do what you enjoy and still pays you a good paycheck. Whether you love working online or driving fast cars, there are many job options that let you have fun while also making good money.
Whether you want to make extra income or find a full-time job, there are many fun jobs that pay well that may interest you.
Fun Jobs That Pay Well
When you’re looking for a job, it’s great to find one that you find fun and that also pays well. Here are some top choices to start with:
Bloggers work from anywhere and write about topics such as family, recipes, personal finance, travel, and more. This is what I do, and I think it’s a ton of fun. Plus, it pays very well!
Art therapists use creativity to help others. They draw or paint as a way to support people’s emotional health. This job requires a master’s degree, but it combines art with helping people, which can be very rewarding.
A Ferrari driving instructor teaches others how to drive a luxury sports car. It’s not just exciting; it can also pay between $90,000 and $120,000 a year.
If you like spotting mistakes in content, then finding a proofreading job may be perfect for you. Proofreaders act like an extra set of eyes to read articles, papers, books, ads, and other written content.
Below are over 40 other fun jobs that pay well that I recommend learning more about.
1. Blogger
If you want to find a fun job that pays well, my favorite way is to start a blog. That’s exactly what I do for a living!
A blog is content written on a website. It usually includes articles like what you’re reading here.
You can blog about something you’re passionate about or something you know a lot about. Or even a topic you want to learn more about (people love following others’ firsthand journeys!).
I began Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and since then, my blog has earned me over $5,000,000 over the years.
I started my blog on a whim to share my own money journey. At first, I didn’t even know people could earn money from blogs or how to make a successful one. And now, it’s my full-time job!
There are many ways to make money blogging such as:
Advertising revenue (banner ads that you see in blog posts)
Sponsored blog posts (when a blogger partners with a company to promote a specific item or company)
Affiliate marketing (when a blogger receives income for referring readers to a product)
Selling digital products or services (such as courses, clothing, books, and more)
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
2. Printables designer
Making and selling printables can be a fun way to earn money. When you create printables on Etsy, you only need to make one digital file for each product. After that, you can sell it many times to make more money.
Printables are things you can find online and print at home.
These can be things like a planner, coloring pages, wall art prints, greeting cards, gift tags, and so much more.
I buy printables frequently, and so do others all the time. Recently, I bought a printable for my daughter and it was a useful tool to help teach her the alphabet. I love that I can easily search what I’m looking for and get exactly what I want – plus I can print it right at home quickly!
Recommended reading: How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Voice actor
A voice-over actor is someone you hear but don’t usually see in things like videos on YouTube, documentaries, radio ads, TV ads, corporate talks, online courses, audiobooks, video games, movies, and cartoons.
Voice actors don’t necessarily need experience for this job (although it can be helpful later on). What’s important is having a voice that matches what the company is searching for.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor
4. Photographer
As a photographer, you get a special chance to capture moments and tell stories with your camera. Photography has many different areas where you can focus, and they can be both satisfying and financially rewarding.
Here are some examples:
Photojournalist – You document events for media outlets, such as National Geographic.
Wedding Photographer – Your role would be capturing wedding moments in couples’ lives.
Stock photo photographer – Photographers can sell their pictures on stock image sites, which are really popular. These sites let customers purchase pictures for things like websites, TV shows, books, and social media.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
5. Buy and sell flipper
Being a buy-and-sell flipper means you’re into flipping items for profit.
This includes getting undervalued things from flea markets, garage sales, or online places and then selling them for more money.
This could be things like clothing, electronics, furniture, cars, and so much more. Basically, anything and everything!
Your success depends on how good you are at finding good deals, knowing the values in the market, and selling things again for a profit.
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
6. Proofreader
As a proofreader, your careful attention to detail can become a rewarding career. Proofreading means going through texts to fix grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes before they get published. This job is important to make sure written content is clear and doesn’t have errors.
Many people, like authors, website owners, and students often hire proofreaders to make their work better. There’s a big need for proofreaders, and you can find jobs on various platforms.
Even the best writers can make mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why getting a proofreader can be really helpful for almost everyone.
In fact, although I have written over 2,000 articles, I have a proofreader who will have proofread this very blog post.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year)
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
7. Freelance writer
Freelance writers create content for clients, like blog posts and advertising. Freelance writing usually involves working independently. Clients give you a topic, you write about it, and then you might receive feedback, like suggestions to improve or add paragraphs.
You can write about any topic that you want to – such as travel, money, home, and so on.
How much you make as a freelance writer depends on your experience and the topics you write about. When you start, you might earn around $50 to $75 for a 500-word article. As you get better, you can charge more. For a 1,000-word article, you could make between $100 and $150. If you do well over time, you can ask for even higher rates.
I was a freelance writer for many years before transitioning to full-time writing here on Making Sense of Cents. It’s a great career where you can mostly work from home on your own.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs
8. Graphic designer
A graphic designer is someone who makes designs for people and businesses. As a digital designer, you might create images, social media graphics, printables, T-shirt designs, business cards, stickers, logos, and more.
As a graphic designer, your main job is to communicate through visuals. You use a mix of typography, images, color, and layout to convey messages and brand identities. This field gives you the freedom to express your creativity in different ways, whether it’s through digital designs or print materials.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
9. Social media manager
Being a social media manager is an exciting career choice and your main job is to take care of how a company or person appears online on different platforms. Your tasks include interacting with followers, selecting content, and planning social media posts.
Here are the key areas you typically need to focus on:
Content creation – Create fresh, original posts tailored to each platform.
Engagement – Interact with the audience by responding to comments and direct messages.
Strategy planning – Use data analytics to drive social media strategies, aiming for increased engagement and reach.
The salary can vary, and you can choose to do this job either part-time or full-time.
10. Social media influencer
Related to the above, you can make money with your own social media accounts as well.
Have you ever followed someone on Instagram or TikTok and thought to yourself that it would be fun if you could do something similar?
Social media influencers use different online platforms to create, share, and connect with content that their audience likes. Your success depends on growing a big group of followers and establishing yourself as a trusted voice in your specific area.
As an influencer, you’ll create your brand by sharing your interests, pictures, and opinions on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and others.
You can earn money through sponsored posts (when brands pay you to promote their products or services in your Instagram posts), affiliate marketing (earning commissions from sales through your referral links), and by creating digital products like ebooks or online courses.
I’ve been a social media influencer for years, monetizing my Instagram and Facebook accounts. It’s a great experience as I get to collaborate with companies I love and promote products I already use.
11. Veterinarian
If you have a passion for animals, then becoming a veterinarian may be a great fit for you.
Veterinarians have a skilled and fulfilling role dedicated to animal health and welfare. The main responsibility is to provide medical care to animals, diagnose health problems, and perform surgeries.
Vets work in private clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities, zoos, and more.
The veterinarian career path is rewarding as it lets you blend a love for animals with the chance to make a positive impact on their lives.
To become a veterinarian, you must complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program and obtain a state license to practice. This usually involves:
A bachelor’s degree
A four-year veterinary program
The national average salary for veterinarians is around $100,000 per year.
12. Marine biologist
One job that I dreamed of as a kid was to become a marine biologist. It always sounded like so much fun to work with water and sea animals.
Marine biologists study marine organisms and how they behave and interact with the environment. Your work might take you from coastal wetlands to the deepest parts of the ocean.
Here are some of the things they do:
Conduct research on marine wildlife and ecosystems
Monitor the health of marine habitats
Develop conservation plans
Educate the public and policymakers
Marine biologists are important for understanding marine life and contributing to ocean conservation efforts.
13. Mystery shopper
Retailers, restaurants, and financial institutions need mystery shoppers for detailed feedback to improve their customer service and products.
This might not be a full-time job, but it can provide you with some extra money each month.
I remember when I first learned about mystery shoppers. I was working at a clothing store, and we would have mystery shoppers come in to see how we were doing. We never knew who the mystery shopper was, but we would get to read their report afterward and see what they thought of us.
After learning about mystery shopping, I found a website where I could become one as well. It sounded like fun to get paid to shop.
I would make about $150 to $200 per month through mystery shopping, and I also got free items and services, like $100 to spend at restaurants (where I had to provide feedback while I was there), makeup, and more.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper
14. Architect
Architects have a special mix of creativity and technical skills, allowing them to design buildings that are not just attractive but also functional and safe.
Their role includes making detailed plans, and considering factors like sustainability, budget, and client needs.
To become an architect, you typically need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture and you’ll need state licensure, which is obtained by passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
15. Stunt person
A stunt person is a cool job where you use your physical skills to create exciting action scenes for movies, TV, and live shows. It’s a big part of making the action look real and thrilling.
To do this job, you might need lots of training in things like martial arts, gymnastics, or extreme sports. You also have to be good at handling pressure and follow safety rules closely.
16. Professional video gamer
Yes, if you like video games, you may actually be able to make money as a professional video gamer.
While the amount of money you can make will definitely vary, top gamers have the potential to earn from tournament prizes, sponsorships, and streaming content for fans:
Tournaments: Prize pools can be large, reaching into the millions for top-ranking competitions.
Streaming: Platforms like Twitch and YouTube pay through ads, subscriptions, and donations.
Sponsorships: Companies may endorse you and pay you with sponsorships or free items.
You could maybe even find a job working for a video game designer, testing out video games so that companies can improve their video game design.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
17. Chocolatier
Many people at some point in their lives want to become the person who makes chocolate and candy – sounds amazing after all, right?
A chocolatier is someone who uses cooking and art skills to make chocolates. It’s a job that needs creativity, precision, and a good sense of taste.
You might work for yourself, making chocolates, or you may even work for a large chocolate company. I know people who do both!
18. Personal trainer
If you want to find a job that you’ll love, becoming a personal trainer may be it.
Personal trainers play an active role by combining fitness with motivational skills to help people reach their health and fitness goals. This job includes:
Assessing clients’ fitness levels and health conditions
Developing personalized workout and nutrition plans
Demonstrating exercises and routines to clients
Tracking clients’ progress and adjusting plans as needed
How much you earn as a personal trainer can change a lot based on where you work, your qualifications, and the clients you get. Personal trainers usually make an average of $40,000 to $70,000 per year.
19. Supercar driving instructor
Supercar driving instructors have an exciting job where they help people learn how to drive fast cars on racetracks.
The role includes teaching safety and giving an exciting experience as well as explaining how to handle the vehicles, follow track rules, and use advanced driving techniques.
You can usually earn a high income doing this, plus you get to drive some of the world’s most exotic supercars.
20. Toy designer
Being a toy designer is probably most children’s dream career. After all, who hasn’t loved toys at one point in their life?
The toy industry is always looking for creative designers to make new toys that will grab kids’ attention and imagination.
Toy designers have a cool job where they mix creativity with making things work well. The main aim is to create toys that are fun and help kids learn and grow. This special job combines artistic skills with knowing about how children think and learn.
21. Restaurant critic
Restaurant critics evaluate dining establishments and share their experiences through written reviews. Their main responsibility is to provide an unbiased review of the food quality, service, ambiance, and overall dining experience.
To gain experience and get started, begin by developing your taste buds and learning about different cuisines. This can involve:
Going to cooking workshops
Exploring different food places when you travel
Creating your own blog or starting an Instagram dedicated to food
22. Brewmaster
If you love craft beers and enjoy understanding how fermentation works, becoming a brewmaster could be a fun and rewarding career.
Brewmasters manage the brewing process, such as creating recipes, choosing ingredients, and making sure the quality is top-notch during production.
To start, you might need formal education, such as a degree in brewing science or a related field. However, some brewmasters climb the ladder from roles like brewing assistants, gaining experience through on-the-job learning.
23. Fashion designer
Fashion designers make clothing, accessories, and shoes, and they draw designs, pick fabrics and patterns, and guide how the products designed should be made.
Fashion designing can be a fulfilling career if you love fashion and enjoy creating. It gives you a chance to express yourself personally and can even lead to getting noticed in the industry.
24. Food stylist
Food stylists combine culinary art with aesthetics, making sure that dishes not only taste good but also look delicious and perfect for photographs.
Their duties include choosing ingredients thoughtfully, preparing the food, and presenting it in a way that’s visually attractive. This is important for different media like advertising, packaging, cookbooks, and film.
25. Event planner
Event planners organize events, from big corporate conferences to small weddings. Their main job is to make sure every part of the event matches the client’s vision, fits the budget, and meets the goals.
According to Glassdoor, the average pay for an event planner is around $50,000 per year. Your salary can change based on things like your experience, where you work, and the size and type of events you handle.
26. Animator
If you’re looking for fun jobs that pay well, then becoming an animator may be it!
Animators make visual creations, and their main focus is on designing characters, environments, and entire worlds in 2D or 3D formats.
Here’s what you may work on:
Character design: Create and develop characters for various media.
Story development: Collaborate on storyboards to plan out visual narratives.
Animation: Work with digital tools to animate drawings and models.
The animation industry values creativity and technical skills and also pays competitive salaries with the opportunity to contribute to exciting storytelling processes. Whether you’re involved in creating animated TV shows, movies, or video games, being an animator can be both enjoyable and financially rewarding.
27. Real estate agent
Real estate agents are professionals who help people buy and sell properties, such as houses and commercial buildings.
I know a few real estate agents, and they all seem to love their jobs. They get to see beautiful new homes and properties and help their clients find their dream property.
Plus, they usually set their own schedule, which can help you create a better work-life balance.
28. Private investigator
Private investigators conduct investigations on various matters, including legal, financial, and personal issues.
This may include doing things like surveilling someone to get information, interviewing people to get details, researching public and legal documents, as well as gathering evidence for cases.
Here are some steps to becoming a private investigator:
Have a high school diploma or equivalent. Perhaps even get a degree or certification in criminal justice or a related field.
Gain experience in a related field such as law enforcement or the military.
Acquire a private investigator license, as required by your state.
29. Romance novelist
Starting a career as a romance novelist can bring both fulfillment and income. If you love storytelling and especially romance, this can be a fun one to think about.
Recommended reading: How to Make Money Self-Publishing Short Romance Novels
30. Interior designer
Interior designers mix creativity with practicality to decorate the insides of properties. Their job is to design and put in place the aesthetic and functional aspects of residential or commercial spaces.
Your job would be to create an environment that looks good and is comfortable for your clients.
31. Airline pilot
Airline pilots have a career that is both exciting and has the potential to make a lot of money. Their main job is to pilot commercial aircraft, flying from one place to another, and making sure everyone on board, including passengers and crew, stays safe.
Some of their daily duties include:
Conduct pre-flight inspections
Navigate the aircraft
Communicate with air traffic control
Monitor weather conditions and aircraft systems
Lead the crew and manage any in-flight issues
32. Drone pilot
Drones have gained popularity lately, not just for recreational use but also for jobs requiring aerial photos and videos. This creates a growing opportunity for individuals to start small businesses and make money with their drones.
Your job as a drone pilot may be to:
Take high-quality images and videos from unique perspectives, such as for real estate, construction, or events.
Perform inspections, surveys, and mapping for various industries like mining or agriculture.
Analyze data and images to give insights to clients.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money With A Drone
33. Sommelier
Sommeliers have a lot of knowledge of wine and can share it in a fun way.
This job is usually found in upscale restaurants, and this role involves suggesting wines that go well with customers’ meals, conducting wine tastings, managing wine service, and taking care of the wine cellar.
34. Chef
Chefs, of course, play an extremely important role in a restaurant kitchen, crafting menus and overlooking meal execution. Their primary responsibilities include tasks like:
Menu Design: They create food menus for a restaurant.
Food Preparation: They oversee and sometimes partake in the detailed preparation of ingredients.
Cooking: They cook the restaurant meals and oversee other cooks in the kitchen.
35. Cruise director
Cruise directors make sure passengers have an unforgettable experience aboard a cruise ship. This job requires a fun personality and excellent skills in managing both entertainment programs and a team of staff members.
Their responsibilities include planning and supervising all onboard entertainment, such as shows, events, and activities.
We went on an around the world cruise recently and had an amazing cruise director. It looked like such a fun job, and they got to travel everywhere that we did (of course!).
Recommended reading: How To Get Paid To Travel The World (18 Realistic Ideas!)
36. Astronomer
Astronomy is a field that combines the excitement of exploring the cosmos with the satisfaction of solving complex problems. As an astronomer, you enter a world dedicated to understanding celestial phenomena and the principles of the universe.
Usually, a Ph.D. in astronomy or a closely related field is needed to conduct independent research or work at a university. However, with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you might find opportunities at planetariums, observatories, or assisting with research.
37. Netflix tagger
If you’re seeking a fun yet rewarding job, becoming a Netflix tagger could be an interesting option. In this job, you watch Netflix content and assign specific labels to shows and movies, influencing the platform’s recommendation algorithm.
To get started, you will need to apply through the Netflix jobs portal, where available positions are listed. Experience in film and media studies, while not mandatory, can give you an advantage.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Ways To Get Paid To Watch Netflix
37. Geologist
Geologists explore and study the earth’s composition, processes, and history.
Their job can lead to finding valuable resources like minerals, oil, and gas, and they also have an important part in environmental conservation and predicting natural disasters.
38. Dog walker
If you love pets, then this is the fun paying job for you!
Dog walkers do exactly that – walk dogs while their owners are busy, such as at work or on vacation. If you like dogs, then this can be a fun way to spend time with animals and get paid for it.
To become a sought-after dog walker, you should be reliable, good with animals, and you should have excellent customer service skills to build connections with clients. Dog walking allows you to enjoy the fresh air, bond with different dogs, and make money doing something you love.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
39. Ethical hacker
Ethical hackers think and operate like malicious hackers but with a specific goal: identifying and fixing security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
They act as safeguards, testing and securing systems to prevent potential breaches for companies.
This job involves a lot of problem-solving skills, as you are looking for possible security problems.
40. Travel agent
If you like planning trips, then becoming a travel agent may be a great way to have a fun high-paying job.
Travel agents craft and sell travel experiences. They help advise clients on different travel destinations and arrange transportation, hotels, tours, and more. It’s a job that not only pays well but allows you to help others travel.
You may help people plan their honeymoon, a trip to Disney World, an around-the-world cruise, and so much more. There are travel planners for every kind of trip that you can think of.
Your knowledge and skill in handling the challenges of travel planning make you a very important help to travelers who want their experiences to be stress free.
The average annual salary can vary by a lot, and this can be either a part-time or full-time job. There is a lot of job growth too, as more and more people are going on vacations!
41. Personal shopper
Personal shoppers give a shopping service for clients who either lack the time or the style to select their own stuff. As a personal shopper, your job may range from picking clothing to finding the perfect gift.
You may work at a high-end retail store, or you may be a freelance personal shopper – there are many jobs in this field!
42. Park ranger
Have you ever been to a beautiful place like Yosemite National Park and wondered what it would be like to work there?
Park rangers work in places like beautiful national parks and get to enjoy the scenery every single day. Their responsibilities include protecting and managing parks, wildlife, and historical sites and making sure that both the natural resources and the visitors exploring them are safe.
To become a park ranger, you usually need a combination of education in fields related to conservation, environmental science, or wildlife management, and relevant work experience.
Recommended reading: 15 Outdoor Jobs For People Who Love Being Outside
43. Tour guide
Being a tour guide gives you a chance to share your love for travel or history with others, all while making a living. You’ll get to be in different places like historical sites, museums, or outdoor adventures.
This can be a low-stress job with a big fun factor – as you get to explore places that you probably already love and are an expert at.
Recommended reading: How to Make Money as an Airbnb Experience Host
44. Yacht crew
Working on a yacht can be a thrilling job that mixes travel, adventure, and the chance to meet new people, along with the possibility of earning good money.
If you work on a yacht, your job could be as a captain, mechanic, server, cleaner, chef, and more. If you’re on a smaller boat, you might even handle all these tasks.
Jobs on a yacht or big sailing boat are usually hard work, but the perk is that you get to travel with most expenses covered, while also earning a high income.
45. Flight attendant
Being a flight attendant is important for making sure passengers are comfortable and safe. You’re like the friendly face of the airline during flights, taking care of different needs and keeping service standards high.
Plus, you get to enjoy the unique perk of discounted or free travel, which is a big perk of becoming a flight attendant.
Flight attendants can earn a good income, and the benefits are excellent. They usually make between $50,000 to over $100,000 a year. The training to become a flight attendant usually takes around 1 to 2 months.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Flight Attendant And Make $61,640 Each Year
46. Art therapist
Art therapists combine the creative process with psychological healing to provide a unique kind of mental health therapy. They conduct one-on-one or group therapy sessions, and being an art therapist can be very fulfilling as you help people discover their voice and heal through art.
Art therapists work at schools, psychiatric hospitals, veterans associations, and more. Usually, you need a master’s degree to enter this field.
They use art therapy to assist people in expressing their emotions, dealing with complex feelings, and enhancing self-awareness. Their job isn’t just about being artistic; it’s deeply connected to therapeutic practices that help a variety of clients.
Another job similar to this is becoming a music therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find fun jobs that pay well.
What is the most high-paying fun job?
The most high-paying fun job can vary based on your skills and interests. Some high-paying fun jobs include being a blogger, pilot, stunt person, and romance book author.
What are random jobs that pay well?
There are many unique jobs, such as a private island caretaker, yacht captain, or a voice-over artist.
Which is the most exciting and highest paying job in this world?
This will depend on who you ask! Maybe it’s being a pilot, a stunt person, an actor, or something else.
What are some fun jobs that pay six figures?
Some fun jobs that pay over $100,000 may include becoming a blogger, selling printables, photographer, architect, and more.
What are some low-stress fun jobs that pay well?
Jobs like a yoga instructor or a massage therapist can be low stress and fun, and they provide a good income, especially when experienced or working in more affluent areas.
What are some fun jobs that pay well without a degree?
You can pursue jobs such as a social media influencer, a real estate agent, or a personal trainer, which can pay well and be rewarding without requiring a traditional four-year degree.
Best Fun Jobs That Pay Well – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best fun jobs that pay well.
There are many fun careers that pay a part-time or full-time income.
Careers like voice acting, managing social media, and ethical hacking not only pay well but also let you have a good balance between work and life. The key is to know your talents and find the right fit in these exciting jobs.
I have been working a fun job for many years now, and I really really love it. It makes each day enjoyable and I actually look forward to work. I hope that you get to one day say the same as well.
What do you think are the best fun jobs that pay well?
Many people are turning to the option of living with a roommate to help balance out the financial strain of rental prices. Make sure you find the right one.
Since living with someone else can turn out as a pretty terrible experience sometimes, it’s important to vet out your roommates beforehand to avoid the bad ones. We’ve all heard the horror stories of piles of dirty dishes, the garbage that’s never taken out and late-night weekday parties. You may have even experienced these frustrations first-hand.
If you haven’t looked for one before, you may wonder how to find a roommate. Fortunately, with social networks and technology, there are plenty of roommate finder apps to help your search. Here is a list of our favorites and tips for identifying what is the best roommate finder app and websites for you.
1. Roomi
Roomi uses an algorithm to match you up with a roommate that would best be suited for you. You answer questions about yourself, what you’re looking for in an ideal roommate and Roomi then works its magic to pair two matches together.
Roomi has users do quick background checks and gives the option to link social media accounts so both roommates can feel more confident and secure in the process. Once you’re ready to message a potential “roomi,” you can do so through the app so you don’t have to exchange any personal contact information until you’re ready.
2. Roomster
Roomster has listings in more than 192 countries and 18 languages. It connects potential roommates using personality traits, keyword searches and interests to help you find your ideal match.
Members can match based on testimonials from friends, hobbies, interests and questions answered through their profiles. Roomster allows users to link their social accounts, so this app tends to have more data to find the perfect match. Once you find a potential roommate that looks promising, you can connect with them through the Roomster mailbox.
3. RoomEasy
RoomEasy is kind of like the Tinder of roommate apps. With RoomEasy, you create a profile, add personal description tags from their system and browse roommate and apartment listings. You can also connect your Facebook profile and see if your potential new roommate and you have any mutual friends.
Once you find something that interests you, you’ll “like” your favorite places or potential roommates’ profiles, and if they “like” yours, you’ll be matched. Once you’re matched, you can connect through the chat app.
4. SpareRoom
SpareRoom claims it is the busiest roommate app, with a roommate match being found every three minutes on its platform. What really sets SpareRoom apart from some other roommate apps is that it has a team of real people that screen each and every ad on SpareRoom so you can ensure listings are safe and verified.
This app even hosts speed room-mating events where you can meet up with people in your community and go through a roommate speed date-like process to see if you find someone you mix well with.
5. BunkUp
BunkUp is a pretty cool app that will help you find a roommate and an apartment. With BunkUp, much like the other apps, you fill out details about yourself and what you’re looking for in a roommate and are you’re matched or “BunkedUp.”
You can look for someone to move into your open space, move into a vacant room someone else is offering or find a new roommate to look for an entirely new apartment with. BunkUp even has agents that will help you find a new apartment.
6. Circle
Circle allows you to create a profile as either someone looking for a roommate to move into your place or as someone searching for a new place to live. It shows your potential roommates based on your profile and specifications.
It even “verifies” users, which means that a user has an authenticated driver’s license connected to their profile and they’ve passed a background check. Circle always shows you the “verified” potential roommates before all others, so you know that those who show up higher on your list are real people that aren’t trying to pull a scam. You’ll also be able to chat with potential roommates and ask questions to see who you get along with best to create a positive living environment.
7. Cirtru
Website only
Cirtru has truly adapted to the digital age. It allows users to take virtual tours within the platform so you can check it out safely from wherever you are. This makes it easy to both find a roommate to fill a vacancy in your home or look for an empty room to move into.
Cirtru is especially useful for animal lovers and owners as it allows you to set your preferences based on many criteria, including pet-friendly rentals and pet-welcoming roommates.
8. RoomieMatch
Website only
RoomieMatch is all about safety. It uses human “Scam Busters” to review submissions and listings, including an IP address location check to share the actual city in which people are, so you won’t deal with many scammers. Plus, your personal info is stored offline, instead of inline, so it can’t be accessed by online hackers and spammers
As a user, you can set your RoomieMatches based on gender, sexual orientation, lifestyle choices (like smoking/non-smoking), age and pet-friendliness.
9. Diggz
Website only
Diggz matches you with roommates based on a variety of factors connected with your profile, like your lifestyle, personality and personal preferences. You’ll be able to “like” other profiles that you’d be interested in rooming with. It’s similar to dating apps where you only talk to people that you “like” and who “like” you back.
Diggz works for almost any situation, whether you’re looking for a new roommate to move in with you, you want to move in with someone else or you want to search for a new place with a new roommate.
10. Roomaters
Roomaters uses more than the preferences you set for finding a roommate. Users take a personality test that helps when matching them with potential roommates.
Plus, you’ll get to input your interests, hobbies and a bit about what kind of roommate you are (social, introverted, messy, neat freak, etc.). So whether you like music, art, rock climbing or superhero movies, you can find someone you’ll enjoy living with.
Ask the right questions before sharing a living space
No matter where you source your new roomie, it’s essential to pose some hard-hitting questions aimed at gaining insights into their way of life and financial well-being. Here are several queries to initiate the conversation:
What qualities are you seeking in a roommate?
Are you thinking about a month-to-month rental arrangement, or are you leaning towards a longer commitment, such as a year?
Could you provide an overview of your typical work hours?
Do you share your living space with any pets?
What are your usual waking and sleeping hours?
How do you typically spend your leisure time?
Are there frequent visitors in your social circle? If so, who usually comes around?
Is smoking or alcohol consumption part of your routine?
Do you have any significant food or animal-related allergies?
Are you planning to bring along any furniture items? Do you have a need for parking space, perhaps a garage? What is your approach to maintaining cleanliness and tidiness around the house?
Roommate finder apps pair you with the right person
With so many roommate finder apps out there, it’s easier than ever to locate a perfect roommate — or at least a good one. Gone are the days of blindly showing up at someone’s place or finding a creepy classified ad in the paper. If you’re looking for the ideal roommate, give one of the above apps or sites a try.
…And Rent. pairs you with the right apartment
Maybe you already know who your potential roommate will be but you’re still looking at apartments together. We can help with that, too. Just type in your target city to get started, then filter by price range, pet-friendly apartments and more to help you decide.
Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.
There are plenty of trends that used to be mostly popular among the low-middle income people that changed when they became popular with rich people. Whether it is a band, a clothing style, or a hobby, nothing remains the same once wealth and status get involved. But what are some of the things that poor people loved before they were spoiled by the wealthy? Here, we look at 20 things that once brought joy to those without much money—until their newfound popularity caused them to be re-crafted as symbols of luxury and extravagance.
1. Industrial, Warehouse Apartments
One user shared, “Living in warehouses in the industrial, rundown side of town.”
Another user agreed and commented, “Yes! They tore down all the real lofts to build condos they call lofts.”
2. Etsy
“Etsy,” posted one user.
Another user commented, “There are SO many accounts for cheap stuff from China that you could get on many other websites as well. No, I come to Etsy for homemade stuff and to support artistic individuals.”
One user added, “Yep, I remember trying to avoid the temptation of Shein by almost buying some unique pearl belly dance waist chains from there for 20 dollars. Dear reader, they were from Shein, without the tags and with a hefty 200% price increase. Thank God for the reviewer who exposed them.”
3. Food banks
One Redditor unfolded the riches’ hack and posted, “Food banks. My local food bank put out a news article basically saying that rich people need to stop using the food bank as a ‘life hack’ to lower their grocery bills.”
One user grasped and commented, “OMG. That’s so evil. Some people really have no conscience.”
4. Living in Arty Neighborhoods
One Redditor shared, “Living in arty neighborhoods.”
Another user replied,” This is what I was looking for. Creative poor people have been investing in poor neighbourhoods forever. They use their talent to make it an excellent place they enjoy living in. The rich say, ‘Hey, I want to be cool, let’s buy this.’ And then they price the poor out of the haven they created and turn it into a stale, crowded, overpriced place. TL;DR—Gentrification”
5. Champion Brand Clothes
“Champion brand clothes. I had a lot when I was a kid because it was the cheapest possible, and now all that s- is considered ‘vintage,’” posted one user.
Another responded, “Reminds me of Fila and Puma.”
6. eBay
An online Redditor commented, “Ebay. It used to be so useful to get all kinds of cheap or unique things. Then more and more big commercial sellers joined the club, and eventually, eBay itself forgot about what and who made their platform a success in the first place.”
“I’ve had my eBay account since ’98 when you had to send physical checks/money orders through the mail. It felt like an online flea market or garage sale where you’d get to know certain buyers and sellers. Feedback was critical, and you never bid on something you didn’t plan to buy because any hit to your reputation was a huge deal.
“It was a nice little collecting community until they allowed resellers of knock-off goods in and turned the whole thing into another Amazon. I occasionally still sell collectibles, but the number of people who don’t bother paying is huge now. I miss old eBay,” stated one user.
7. Blue-Collar Residential Neighborhoods
One user also shared, “Blue-collar residential neighborhoods in the city.”
Another user commented, “Yes! This is my answer, too. Not just houses in general but poor neighborhoods, in particular, are being f- over. You can see the tale here in the property history on Realtor.com. Lots and lots of houses were previously on the market for $50,000, bought, and then flipped and listed for $250k to $300k in a ZIP code where the median income is $34.5k, a good $20k less than the median income for the city. Shockingly, no one wants to spend $300k for a s- remodel in the ‘hood, so most of these houses sit empty unless/until they’re put on Airbnb.”
One added, “I think the problem with gentrification in the US is twofold: a failure to provide a path to ownership for often at-risk residents (which leads to slumlords) and a failure to protect the at-risk pop who DO own property from massive tax hikes.
“No one is opposed to tearing down condemned houses and building new ones, but the neighbours who have been there should not get affected by massive tax increases.”
8. Rural Lake Cabins
“Quiet out-of-the-way country cabins sitting by lakes. Now they are overpriced Airbnbs,” posted one user.
Another user commented, “I’d even say Airbnbs themselves. They started as a potentially cheap alternative to hotels run by people with extra space they aren’t doing anything with. Now people build guest houses specifically for Airbnb and treat It like a full-on rental.”
One user suggested, “If you do decide to go to an Airbnb as a getaway, I’d recommend looking for one on a farm. From what I’ve seen, they’re usually run by the farmers as a sort of side gig and not some company or wealthy person.
“The last one I went to was out in the middle of nowhere with like 70 acres that you’re free to explore, and it was actually at an animal rehabilitation center. They rented out their spare room as an Airbnb as a way to bring in more money to put towards the animals. It was insanely cool.
“They had a ton of animals that were being rehabilitated. The living room had a giant window that looked straight into the snow macaque enclosure. It was their inside feeding area, so you could watch them chill and eat like 2 feet away. There was a flock of chickens that would follow you around; most of them were bald or had b-m legs or other issues that would get them slaughtered at a farm. There were storks, peacocks, a very playful otter, spider monkeys, a d-head heron that kept pecking at my boots, boxes, and a lot more, but they even had tigers. Apparently, they were rescued from a carnival and couldn’t be released into the wild. It was so calm and also sweet to know that you were contributing a bit just by staying there.
“Edit: guess I should’ve included it in the original comment. It’s called ‘The Suite at the Ridge’ in Hocking Hills, Ohio. The Airbnb itself wasn’t crazy lovely or anything, but it was perfectly fine, and you’re there to be around the animals anyways. Unfortunately, I can’t post pictures here because I have some I’d love to share.
“Edit 2: I can’t seem to get the listing to show up in a search, only by looking through messages and it says that the host ‘no longer has access to Airbnb’ so I’m not sure what happened. We went in January, so it wasn’t even a year ago. But if you want to look at other sites, the sanctuary is Union Ridge Wildlife Center.
“Edit 3: Don’t Google the name of the wildlife center unless you want my happy post to become a sad post. Turns out it wasn’t as wholesome as I thought it was.”
9. Van Life and Tiny Houses
One online user stated, “Van life and tiny house living.”
Another user replied, “It’s like they gentrified the trailer park.”
Another user commented, “Not where I live. We still have proper trailer parks loaded with meth, pit bulls and domestic violence.”
10. Modernizing a Historic Home
A user commented, “Buying a “fixer-upper” home and spending weekends working on it. I was really looking forward to that.”
One user responded, “I’ve seen so many nice period houses completely gutted on the inside by modern renovations. If I buy a 1930s house, I don’t want a stupid Scandinavian minimalist interior!”
11. Thrift Shopping
“Thrift shopping. I’m not *thrifting* I’m f- broke,” one user commented.
Another user added, “Sometimes I feel like it’s cheaper to buy clothes at Target or Walmart brand new than it is to buy from a thrift store.”
12. Counterculture-Based Festivals
A Redditor stated, “Counterculture-based festivals. Burning Man was on my bucket list until rich folks started showing up with bodyguards and started establishing private zones.”
One user added, “Counterculture as a whole seems to be getting gentrified. In the Netherlands, there are a lot of places you can go to that have a ‘counterculture aesthetic’ or more specifically, ‘squat aesthetic’ but have exorbitant prices. Squatting used to be vast, and multiple venues in the Netherlands (like Paradiso and Melkweg) have their humble beginnings as a squat. Ruigoord, a village close to Amsterdam that got squatted 50 years ago, also completely lost its soul and is filled with yuppies.
“Counterculture is being gentrified, sanitized and sold back to people at exorbitant prices as something ‘new, weird and hip.’”
13. The Farmer’s Market
One user posted, “Going to the farmers market.” A user replied, “I went to a farmer’s market where only one vendor sold fruits and vegetables. There were three boutique honey stands and an old white lady selling ‘native’ art. St Philips Plaza in Tucson, for anyone who knows what I’m talking about. So dumb.”
14. Houses
“Houses. We poor people would work our entire lives to own one. Property became a great investment and a way to increase wealth, so rich people bought them. Not to live in as intended but to rent to the poor and keep them poor by renting so they will never be able to save enough to afford their own.” a user added to the thread.
15. Fajitas
One Redditor shared, “Fajitas. I remember being able to get skirt steak really cheap and sometimes for free.”
One user replied, “That goes for any ‘cheap’ cut of meat.”
16. Pickup Trucks
“Pickup trucks. They used to be much cheaper,” one user posted.
Another user replied, “They’re luxury minivans now.”
17. Unrestricted Land
One user posted, “Unrestricted land. Everything gets an HOA now, and they try to force you into their jurisdiction.
“My family fought an HOA targeting my grandmother’s house. She had lived there for ten years before the HOA was even an idea, or the new area with big houses was cleared for construction before that.
“We ended up having Rock in her house, skirting, and rock under her deck due to insufficient money to fight an HOA she never signed on to.
“If an HOA comes out where I live (which might happen in the next 15 years), I will fight them tooth and nail for spite alone.”
18. Cheat Cuts of Meat
“Off cuts of meat,” shared one user.
Another user replied, “I remember when chicken wings were 10 cents because they could not give them away. Now, they are an industry. They break a wing in half and call it two wings.”
19. Concerts and Festivals
One user shared, “Concerts and festivals.”
Another Redditor added, “I agree with this one. I have lost all interest in the concert/festival experience.”
20. Brisket Burnt Ends
“Brisket burnt ends. BBQ joints used to toss them or give them away for free,” One commenter added.
Another user replied, “BBQ used to be poor people’s food. Nobody wanted to eat ribs and brisket because they are hard to cook. Now every upper-middle-class person has a smoker, and BBQ costs an arm and a leg.”
Do you agree with the things listed above? Share your thoughts below!
Source: Reddit.
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Every major city in the U.S. has a unique skyline. Whether they have the tallest buildings or the prettiest mountain backdrop, a skyline makes a city instantly recognizable from afar. Since the world’s first skyscraper in Chicago in 1885, architects have continued to race each other to touch the sky.
Here are 30 of the best skylines across the country, from the Big Apple to Motor City.
Which city has the best skyline in the U.S.?
From coast to coast, near the water or in the desert, each skyline has an element that makes them striking. And one of the best in the country.
30. Houston, TX
The oldest building in the Houston skyline is the El Paso Energy building, completed in 1963 at 33 stories. The tallest, the JPMorgan Chase Tower, is double that at 75 floors. The tower was supposed to be 80 stories, but a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) analysis said anything over 75 stories was considered hazardous to air navigation.
Find an apartment for rent in Houston.
29. Denver, CO
Denver’s skyline can be enjoyed from several spots around the city, including Washington Park. Denver is exactly one mile high, with more than 200 visible peaks sneaking around the skyline for their moment in the limelight. The tallest building in this skyline is the 56-story Republic Plaza.
Find an apartment for rent in Denver.
28. St. Louis, MO
You can’t think about the St. Louis skyline without the Gateway Arch, the tallest manmade monument in the country. The 630-feet-tall stainless steel monument is genuinely iconic and marks the moment the Louisiana Purchase was signed. Next to it, the Mississippi River flows by and joins the Missouri River north of the city.
Find an apartment for rent in St. Louis.
27. Orlando, FL
Fun fact about the Orlando skyline: Lake Eola, in downtown Orlando, is a giant sinkhole. It’s around 80 feet at its deepest point. You can see the most iconic city landmark, the Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain, right in the middle of it. In the background, at 441 feet, the Suntrust Center is the tallest building in Central Florida.
Find an apartment for rent in Orlando.
26. Atlanta, GA
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Atlanta is the view of the skyline at the Jackson Street Bridge. It’s both used in “The Walking Dead,” and it’s a prime spot to capture a beautiful Instagram shot for your feed. While the skyscrapers themselves aren’t quite famous, the view is still worth the snapshot.
Find an apartment for rent in Atlanta.
25. San Diego, CA
America’s Finest City’s skyline has changed drastically in just a decade but buildings are usually capped at 500 feet due to concerns over planes crossing over the downtown on the flight path to San Diego International Airport. Petco Park offers the best sunset view of the San Diego skyline, a treat while watching the Padres hit a few home runs.
Find an apartment for rent in San Diego.
24. Tampa, FL
The most identifiable buildings in the Tampa skyline are the University of Tampa’s stainless steel minarets, a stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers that surround it. Previously the luxurious Tampa Bay Hotel, the building was railroad tycoon Henry Plant’s legacy inspired by Moorish architecture.
Find an apartment for rent in Tampa.
23. San Francisco, CA
As the fog rolls in, past the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco’s skyline looks ethereal. The Bay Area skyline is a good mix of skyscrapers like the Salesforce Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid and smaller buildings, due to the earthquake risk in California.
Find an apartment for rent in San Francisco.
22. Nashville, TN
Well, Bob Dylan in 1969 named a whole album after the stunning Nashville skyline, and we can’t disagree. The southern city’s first skyscraper was only 12 stories tall back in 1905 — that number has now grown to 162 high-rises. The most identifiable of them all? The AT&T Building, nicknamed the Batman building, for its resemblance to the superhero’s mask.
Find an apartment for rent in Nashville.
21. Minneapolis, MN
Minnesota winters are infamous for being brutal, but Minneapolis has it figured it out. They stay mega cozy without going outdoors, thanks to the skyway system’s enclosed bridges that connect buildings throughout the city. It’s the most extensive pedestrian skywalk system in the world, connecting more than 20 of the tallest buildings in Minneapolis.
Find an apartment for rent in Minneapolis.
20. Knoxville, TN
The Sunsphere, the tower with the disco ball-like at the top, makes the Knoxville skyline easy to spot. The unique structure was built for the 1982 World’s Fair. After sitting abandoned for years, the 4th-floor observation deck reopened in 2022. It offers a 360-degree view of downtown Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Find an apartment for rent in Knoxville.
19. Indianapolis, IN
Today, Indianapolis’ skyline is marked by Monument Circle, a monument to the valor of the common soldier. Any building surrounding it cannot be taller than eight stories so the sunlight can reach the fountain.
Another fun fact: Circle City was home to one of the most remarkable feats in engineering in 1930 — the move of the 11,000-ton Indiana Bell building. For a little over a month, the building was rotated 90 degrees. Some 30 years later, it was demolished.
Find an apartment for rent in Indianapolis.
18. Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati is home to the world’s first reinforced concrete skyscraper, the 16-story Ingalls Building. Before 1903, no one had built a building taller than six floors. Today, it’s the Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Downtown. This is just one of many historic landmarks in the city’s skyline.
Find an apartment for rent in Cincinnati.
17. Milwaukee, WI
With Lake Michigan as a backdrop, Milwaukee’s skyline held the title for tallest skyscraper for a brief moment in time. In 1895, the Milwaukee City Hall was the tallest building in the city, taller than anything in New York or Chicago at the time. The beautiful walkways surrounding the atrium (and the building) still stand today.
Find an apartment for rent in Milwaukee.
16. Norfolk, VA
Lesser known than some of the skylines on the list, Norfolk’s has mostly mid-rise buildings, with the 26-story Dominion Tower taking the top spot for tallest in the skyline. What brings you is the reflection of the skyline on the Elizabeth River. The recently revitalized waterfront offers beautiful views of the city and a chance to see the restored shoreline.
Find an apartment for rent in Norfolk.
15. San Antonio, TX
The star of the San Antonio skyline is the Tower of the Americas, the 11th tallest skyscraper in the entire state. Right in downtown San Antonio, the 750-foot-tall observation tower offers some of the city’s best views. Initially built for the 1968 World’s Fair, the tower has a spot to grab a bite to eat at the top.
Find an apartment for rent in San Antonio.
14. Charlotte, NC
Here’s a fun fact: The majority of Charlotte’s current skyline was built in the 21st century starting in 2002 with the Hearst Tower. The city is a financial center in the Southeast with Bank of America, Wells Fargo and other institutions having a presence at each of the skyline’s buildings.
Find an apartment for rent in Charlotte.
13. Portland, OR
Downtown Portland’s skyline is composed of 31 high-rises, with the Wells Fargo Center taking the top spot for tallest building. Most of the city center is nestled in between the Columbia and Willamette rivers. Nearby, the historic Pittock Mansion offers incredible panoramic views of Portland and Mount Hood in the background.
Find an apartment for rent in Portland.
12. Phoenix, AZ
From the top of Camelback Mountain, about 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix, you can see the entire Phoenix metropolitan skyline. A striking view during sunset with the desert mountains in the background is not your usual skyline view.
Find an apartment for rent in Phoenix.
11. Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh has over 400 bridges, and it’s hard to miss them in the city skyline. Like the Smithfield Street Bridge, the oldest steel bridge in the U.S., which crosses the Monongahela River. Pittsburgh’s skyline also features One Oxford Centre, a complex of six buildings with many sides to offer as many corner offices as possible.
Find an apartment for rent in Pittsburgh.
10. Memphis, TN
The downtown Memphis skyline overlooks the Mississippi river as it was purposely built on the banks by the city’s founders. These days, the Memphis Riverfront offers a beautiful river walk that connects two state parks, Meeman-Shelby Forest and T.O. Fuller.
Find an apartment for rent in Memphis.
9. Detroit, MI
Detroit has one of the most distinguishable skylines in the country. Motor City’s Sunset Point gives the most beautiful views of the skyline along the Detroit River. Or, if you want a bench to admire the skyline and the sunset, head over to Riverside Park with a small picnic. The Ambassador Bridge is the star of the show from this angle.
Find an apartment for rent in Detroit.
8. Dallas, TX
The Dallas skyline is recognizable, thanks to the 1980s hit series “Dallas” and has won best skyline multiple times, including USA TODAY. The Reunion Tower, a 561-foot observation deck, is one of the skyline landmarks in Dallas. The locals often call it “The Ball.”
Find an apartment for rent in Dallas.
7. Chicago, IL
Right by Lake Michigan, Chicago has built one of the most classic skylines, with height variation, no crowding or funky-looking buildings. It makes sense since the first skyscraper in the world was built in the Windy City. Get to know it during one of the city’s popular architecture-themed boat tours. But you’ll get the best full view of the skyline at the Adler Planetarium.
Find an apartment for rent in Chicago.
6. Miami, FL
Welcome to Miami! The Florida city has the country’s third tallest skyline with more than 300 skyscrapers. The Panorama Tower, located in downtown Miami, stands tall at 85 stories, making it the tallest in the state. Nine out of the top 10 of the tallest buildings in Florida can be found in Miami.
Find an apartment for rent in Miami.
5. Los Angeles, CA
Did you know that until 2014 Los Angeles buildings were required to have a flat top to allow for a helicopter landing? That’s why the skyline looks almost homogenous aside from a few new additions. On a clear day without smog, the Los Angeles skyline can be seen from several vantage points, but Griffith Observatory and Echo Park Lake are the best ones.
Find an apartment for rent in Los Angeles.
4. Honolulu, HI
Honolulu’s small, packed skyline isn’t just about buildings. A skyline shot from above shows the vibrant blue Pacific Ocean paired with lush Diamond Head. It just exudes paradise from every perspective. The First Hawaiian Center has remained the tallest building on the island since the mid-90s at 429 feet.
Find an apartment for rent in Honolulu.
3. Seattle, WA
The Space Needle and Mount Rainier, part of Seattle’s iconic skyline, take our No. 3 spot for best skyline in the U.S. The best place to see it all from above? Sunset Hill Park provides the best view of the skyline during a sunny day. The Columbia Center takes the prize for the tallest building in the city at 76 stories.
Find an apartment for rent in Seattle.
2. Las Vegas, NV
And the No. 2 spot goes to Sin City — the one and only Las Vegas. With all of its neon lights, the Las Vegas skyline is the brightest place on Earth and can be seen from outer space. The Luxor’s Sphinx, a replica of the Great Sphinx of Giza, stands out among the many iconic buildings on the skyline. Fun fact: It’s bigger than the original.
Find an apartment for rent in Las Vegas.
1. New York, NY
The New York City skyline takes the prize as the best skyline in the country. From above, the Big Apple shines with its landmark buildings like the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Tower and the One World Trade Center. It has inspired architectural dreams, and it has become the background for many stories and movies.
And while it had a tragic change at the beginning of the 21st century, it remains one of the best city skylines in the United States.
Find an apartment for rent in New York.
The best city skylines around the country
Whether buildings have a mountain as their background or a view of water, there are so many beautiful skylines to choose from across all 50 states.
These are just a small slice of the most beautiful city skylines around the U.S. With ongoing construction, each of these skylines will look a little different over time and one of them could be your next view from your apartment.
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Making a financial plan can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know all of the essential budget categories you should include. Budgeting isn’t a one-size-fits-all process either, as the importance of each category will largely depend on your specific financial situation.
This article will review the top 12 budget categories that can bolster your financial plan. Credit.com also has multiple personal finance resources that can enhance your financial literacy.
Several important budget categories account for housing, transportation, health care, entertainment expenses, and more.
Key Takeaways:
The prioritization of budget categories will be unique to your needs.
Some expenses have fixed prices, while others have variable costs. You’ll need to account for both from one month to the next.
Tools like money apps and budget spreadsheets can help you visualize your spending habits.
Table of Contents:
Why Do I Need a Budget?
A budget can ensure that you aren’t caught off-guard by bills throughout the month—especially near the month’s end or right before you get paid. Keeping a budget can also provide long-term data based on your spending habits and serve as a snapshot of your priorities.
Effective budgets can help you plan for longer-term goals, like retirement, and inform you of what expenditures truly make you happy—and which ones aren’t necessary.
Fixed Expenses vs. Variable Expenses
Fixed expenses refer to items that essentially cost the same each month, with very little fluctuation in terms of pricing. Mortgage and rent payments, auto loan payments, and internet service bills will likely fall into this category.
Variable, or flexible, expenses can drastically differ from one month to the next. The amount you spend on groceries, clothes, entertainment, and even medical appointments can all vary over time.
Top 12 Budget Categories to Add to Your Plan
The following budget categories can help you map out your monthly expenses. Depending on your unique circumstances, these categories may need to be adjusted in terms of their priority.
1. Housing Expenses
Housing often takes top priority as your living space is directly tied to your long-term health and safety. You also need a stable housing situation to perform well at work and ensure that you have the funds to make your mortgage or rent each month.
While there’s no strict maximum for the housing category, you can expect to spend anywhere from 25% to 35% of your income on your mortgage or rent payments. If your housing budget exceeds more than 35% of your monthly income, refinancing your mortgage or looking for another living space might be more expense-friendly in the long run.
Items that fall in housing expenses:
Rent
Mortgage Payment
Appliances
Household Repairs
2. Utilities
The ability to live comfortably in your home is just as crucial for your health as actually having one, which is why utilities are usually another high-priority item. Many residential buildings in some urban areas have ordinances that require certain utilities, like water and electricity, to be considered safe living.
Utilities rarely come close to the top of the list of expenses in terms of cost, and you can reduce their cost with proper management. Depending on their usage, you can expect to spend around 5% to 10% on monthly utilities.
Items that fall in the utilities category:
Electricity
Water
Telephone
Natural gas
Sewer
Trash
Heating
Air conditioning
3. Transportation Costs
Owning or leasing a vehicle, along with repairing it, can be another high-priority expense. Some areas may complement alternative means of transportation, such as public transit or biking—which would result in much less money going toward this category.
The cost of owning a car includes the tags, licenses, and maintenance on top of the monthly car payments. Depending on your method, transportation or travel expenses will likely cost you anywhere from 10% to 15% per month.
Items that fall in transportation costs:
Gasoline
Car payment
Registration fees
Vehicle repairs and maintenance costs
New tires
4. Groceries
Groceries (not food from restaurants) and water encompass our basic needs. Store-bought groceries and water may require a large chunk of your income, though this category offers a lot of flexibility in terms of total spending.
Cooking dinner at home with groceries can help you save money, as many home-cooked meals can last multiple days. You should probably expect to spend between 10% and 15% of your monthly income on food expenses.
Items that fall in the food category:
Grocery budget
School lunch
5. Insurance
This broader category covers numerous subcategories that apply to different people. For example, if you live in a large, urban area with well-run public transportation, you may not have to worry about auto insurance.
Insurance may be classified under different categories depending on who you ask. Some pundits include health care in this category, for example. Depending on what type of insurance you need and your insurance premiums, you can look to spend anywhere between 10% to 25% of your income on this category.
Items that fall in the insurance category:
Life insurance
Auto insurance
Renters insurance
Homeowners insurance
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Disability insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Pet insurance
6. Health care
This category may have higher or lower priority depending on your specific health needs. Health and dental insurance in America is also quite costly—making them one of the primary reasons Americans go bankrupt.
Health care costs include annual checkups, clinic visits, prescription medications, and general medicines, like pain relievers. Health care is a variable expense because some months can be costly while others don’t have any expenses. Even when you don’t have any expenses, it’s a good idea to put away a little cash for a rainy day.
Items that fall in the health care category:
Anticipated copays
Prescription medications
Orthodontic work (braces)
Prescription eyeglasses
Primary care visits
Dental care visits
7. Savings
Everyone needs some kind of emergency fund to cover those unforeseen expenses. Regularly dedicating a small portion of your monthly income can help you save for major life events down the road.
There’s no hard line about what amount you should save, but a safe bet is between 5% and 10% of your monthly income. Saving this amount can help you handle emergency expenses and create a nest egg for a future big purchase.
Items that fall in the savings category:
Emergency fund
Health savings accounts
Fun money
Three to six months’ worth of expenses
Saving for a specific purchase (vehicle, college savings, vacation, etc.)
8. Retirement
While you could argue that retirement or a 401(k) is a type of savings, we refer to savings as money that can be used for any expense without penalty. Retirement accounts like IRAs help you save money that’s intended for use in the future. If you take money out of your retirement account before the preset time (unless you have a 457(b) account), you will incur a 10% tax penalty.
Much like savings, this is another category without a hard-line amount that you should contribute but should see at least 5% to 15% of your income. Ideally, you can primarily rely on this money once you’ve retired.
Items that fall in retirement:
Employer-sponsored retirement plan
401(k)
403(b)
Roth IRA
457(b)
9. Debt
This category applies to a significant portion of the U.S. population—especially those who have a student loan, credit card debt, or personal loans. Debt is a consideration that often has a lower priority level because we can pay it off over time. That said, it’s important to make sure you don’t fall behind on your payments as the penalties and fees can compound if left unchecked.
Because everyone’s situation is different, there’s no given amount of your monthly income you should dedicate to debt payments. We do, however, recommend that you pay more than the monthly minimum.
Items that fall in the debt category:
High-interest credit cards
Vehicle loan
Student loans
Personal loans
Medical bills
10. Personal Care and Hygiene Items
This category encompasses both wants and needs. Toilet paper and toothpaste should be considered “needs,” while designer clothes or expensive watches are examples of “wants.”
Because most personal expenses are lower priority, there’s no expected amount you should budget for this category, but it should remain relatively low on your list of priorities. Ensure that everything else above on this list is covered first, then look to see what you can spare on these purchases.
Items that fall in the personal care and hygiene category:
Shampoo
Deodorant
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Gym memberships
Shoes
Dry cleaning
Toiletries
Laundry detergent
Cleaning supplies
Diapers
Hair care
11. Entertainment
This category sits at the bottom of our list for a good reason, but it’s still essential to include. If you find yourself in a budget crunch, this is easily one of the first categories you should reduce until finances stabilize.
Sporting events, vacations, or streaming services like Netflix fall into this category. Given its otherwise low priority, there is no set amount you should spend on entertainment, and extra money can shift from month to month.
Items that fall in the entertainment category:
Books
Electronics
Restaurant dining
Concert tickets
Events
Vacations
Movies
Coffee
12. Other
This low-priority category covers pretty much anything else not already discussed. That can include property taxes that are a high priority in most circumstances, but you can often work with the IRS to get a debt repayment plan.
Various “other expenses” might also include donations, parking fees, child support, gifts, and school supplies, depending on your circumstances.
Some of these other expenses are significantly more important than others, but things like home improvement can be considered a kind of investment.
Items that fall in the other budget category:
Miscellaneous expenses
Child care
Holiday decor
Special occasions
Alimony
Anniversary presents
Tutoring
Private school
How Do I Make a Budget?
Considering the budget categories we presented in this article, one budgeting method that could work for you is a monthly budget spreadsheet. Or, you can use a budgeting app like Mint or another high-end competitor.
There are plenty of resources to use, so you should do lots of research on any budgeting apps that you consider downloading. Since not all of the apps work the same, search through different apps to find what best serves your budgetary needs.
What Is a 50/30/20 Budget?
Numerous financial pundits advocate for a 50/30/20 budget scheme, in which 50% of your income goes to necessary expenses, 30% goes to savings accounts, and 20% goes to wants and miscellaneous expenses. It’s also not uncommon to see people devote 30% of their funds to wants and 20% to savings.
This strategy often faces scrutiny during periods of economic strife, such as high inflation rates. Nevertheless, many budgeting apps may recommend this plan if your current income can support it.
Refine Your Budgeting Plans With Credit.com
The categories we’ve discussed today, along with their corresponding priority levels, can all vary from person to person. Building the best budget for your specific needs calls for a bit of craftiness and professional assistance.
Credit.com offers a wealth of tools and resources to help build credit, such as a free monthly budget template and services that allow you to report your utility and rent to the credit bureaus.
When you live in an apartment, you most likely won’t have a backyard or lots of outdoor space. However, a lot of apartment complexes include a patio on the ground level so you can step outside and enjoy some fresh air. Even if a patio is small, it doesn’t mean it can’t be grand. If you are looking for ways to spruce up your patio and turn it into a luxurious outdoor space, here are some small patio ideas to consider.
Small patio ideas you’ll love
Whether you opt for all of these ideas or choose only a handful of these small patio ideas, you can turn any mundane patio into a place you’re dying to spend all your free time.
Just be sure to check with your landlord first before installing or building anything!
1. Add a table and chairs
First on the list is finding a set of chairs and a table. Patio furniture comes in all shapes and sizes. You can get wrought iron, plastic or rattan to name a few. No matter what kind of patio furniture you choose, a table and chairs are essential because it’ll be the place you sit to eat, drink, read or simply relax.
2. Consider multi-use furniture
If your patio is small, you’ll want to consider purchasing furniture that has multiple uses. For example, you could get a foot pedestal that also used as a small table, a footrest and a place to hold plants for decoration. If you can get each piece of furniture to serve more than one purpose, you’ll save money in the process, too.
3. Find foldable furniture
Are you short on space on your patio? This small patio idea is perfect for those with cramped quarters. Buy foldable furniture that you can easily store when you’re not using it. You can easily access and use it when you need to, otherwise, you can quickly fold it and store it to add more space to your patio.
4. Decorate with a mattress
Mattresses don’t just belong in a bedroom. Putting a mattress on your patio is a great way to create a Bohemian-style feel on your patio. Take a blow-up or regular mattress, put some sheets over it, add some blankets and you’ve got created a comfortable and chic patio.
5. Use pillows for comfort and decor
Pillows add both decoration and comfort to any patio space. Get some oversized pillows and add them to your patio, like this idea from Pinterest. You can put them on your chairs or use them as poofs to sit on. Pillows are a great way to add a pop of color to your patio as well as adding an element of comfort and design.
6. Get a blanket basket
Like pillows, blankets are another way to spruce up any patio. On summer nights as the sun sets and it starts to get cooler, people will want to grab a blanket to drape over their lap as they continue chatting and hanging out into the night. Get a basket to fill with outdoor blankets and you’ve got yourself some small patio decor that’s practical and cute.
7. Set up a speaker system
Music can set the mood on any occasion. From outdoor date nights to a casual gathering with friends on the patio, you need music to create ambiance. Invest in an outdoor speaker system for your patio. This could be a small speaker you plug your phone into, a smart home device like Alexa or even a full-blown speaker system. Regardless of what you choose, a speaker is a great small patio idea.
8. Watch movies on a movie projector
Movie projectors are a fun purchase to splurge on for your small patio. You can project a movie onto the wall of the apartment and watch it from the comfort of your patio. They don’t take up too much space but are a fun way to get outside more often.
9. String up a hammock
Opting out of traditional patio furniture? Consider hanging a hammock on your patio. If you’re cramped for space or simply like to hang from a hammock, this is a great small patio idea to go for.
10. Install a privacy screen
Given that patios are on the ground floor, you won’t have as much privacy as on a balcony. But, you can easily install a privacy screen, shutters or even curtains to your patio to create some privacy. Plus, you can have fun with the decorating process as you choose what color of the curtain you want or what color of paint to use on the privacy screen.
11. Burn some candles
Candles are a great small patio idea. They don’t take up much space but add a lot of ambiance to any patio. Get a variety of sizes, shapes and colors and use candles to both decorate and light up your patio.
12. String up lights
Strings of lights are another easy way to decorate your small patio. You can hang the lights from end-to-end, drape them around the table and chairs or hang them above the doorway. White string lights are cute, sparkly and practical and will make any patio feel like a fairy garden.
13. Add a rug
Rugs are a great way to decorate a small patio. First of all, they can add a pop of color to the patio. Second, they can cover up the ugly cement they likely were made of. And third, they make the space feel cozier.
14. Prop an umbrella
Your patio may already be shaded, but adding an umbrella is a great small patio idea. Umbrellas easily move so you can block out the sun anywhere it comes through on the patio. Umbrellas also come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes.
15. Pot some plants
Potted plants add charm to any patio. You can buy pots of all sizes, depending on how large your patio is. From small pots that fit on a table as a centerpiece to giant ones that take up lots of space, using pots as a small patio idea is a great way to add greenery to your patio.
16. Get flower window boxes
If you don’t have a garden but want to plant some flowers, you can buy a few flower boxes for windows, ledges or gates. Add the window box and fill it with your favorite flowers.
17. Think vertically
Because patios often are small and short on space, think vertically when decorating. You can use ladders, tall planter boxes or racks and decorate upward instead of outward. This allows you to have lots of decorations without taking up too much space.
18. Buy a barbecue
Barbecues go hand-in-hand with summer nights. Barbecues are a great product to invest in and add to your small patio. They may take up some space but it’ll be well worth it when you’re cooking and entertaining all summer long.
Just make sure they are allowed at your property before investing the money. Some cities do not allow grills on patios due to fire codes.
19. Build up a bar cart
Bar carts are a fun item to have on your patio. You can choose a bar cart and start building up the contents over time. You can add different types of drinks, mixers, cups and ice containers to it. Not only is it a great small patio idea, but your friends will also love coming over and mixing themselves up a drink.
20. Splash some paint
If your landlord permits, you can paint your patio. Consider painting the floor a fun color or one of the walls. This takes up no space and allows you to add more color into the space.
Decorating with our small patio ideas
It doesn’t take a full-blown renovation to turn an ordinary patio into a place of relaxation and rest. Your patio can become your outdoor oasis with these easy ideas for decorating your small patio. Any one of these small patio ideas will surely turn it into a place you want to spend all your free time.
Sage Singleton is a freelance writer with a passion for literature and words. She enjoys writing articles that will inspire, educate and influence readers. She loves that words have the power to create change and make a positive impact in the world. Some of her work has been featured on LendingTree, Venture Beat, Architectural Digest, Porch.com and Homes.com. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading and learning French.