The average home in Utah sells for about $250,000 right now. Let’s just say the homes that made this list are slightly above average–in many ways. I scoured the web to find the highest priced homes for sale in Utah. I found quite a few properties in the over $10M price range. Of course, if you’re spending over $10 million on a house, you kind of expect it to be something special. $10 mil. was too cheap to make this list, though, with number 10 making the cut at a cool, $14.45 million asking price.
So, without further ado, here’s the list of the top 10 most expensive homes currently for sale in Utah (February 2016):
1. 8272 E Left Hand Fork Hobble Creek, Springville – $39,000,000
Home size: 49,568 sqft; 6 bedrooms, 12 baths
Lot size: 185 acres
What to like: Indoor swimming pool with slides, waterfall, lazy river and hot tub, movie theater, bowling alley, indoor shooting area, indoor basketball court and meeting area, elevator, heated drive, and outdoor lighting. Oh, and did I mention it’s on 185 acres in Hobble Creek Canyon? Nice!
2. 9806 N Summit View Dr, Deer Valley – $21,900,000
Home size: 13,536 sqft, 6 bedrooms, 10 baths
Lot size: .64 acres
What to like: Direct ski access on Deer Valley’s Mountaineer ski run, heated outdoor pool w/ waterfall, elevator, golf simulator, steam room, sauna, theater and 4,500 sq. ft. of heated decks. Buy this place fully furnished. Turn key luxury (at a price).
3. 1886 S Geneva Rd, Orem – $19,500,000
Home size: 21,998 sqft, 9 bedrooms, 20 baths
Lot size: 18.77 acres
What to like: An engineered pond with trophy-sized fish, a boat house and pool, a garage and hotel-style guest house, a motocross course and state-of-the-art motorcycle maintenance shop, a large outdoor gathering area in the pines surrounding a huge fire pit, a storybook tree house, a little red schoolhouse. Large mature trees, including the largest private grove of Sequoia trees in the state of Utah.
4. 174 White Pine Canyon Dr. #174, Park City – $18,700,000
Home size: 15,743 sqft, 9 bedrooms, 14 baths
Lot size: 5.31 acres
What to like: Ski-in/ski-out home off the Dreamcatcher, lift right smack dab in the middle of the newly expanded Park City Resort. Gated community.
5. 2425 E. 6200 S, Holladay – $18,400,000
Home size: 28,740 sqft, 7 bedrooms, 15 baths
Lot size: 3.99 acres
What to like: Lush and wooded stream-front property in the heart of the Cottonwoods. The grounds and heated patios are filled with all the amenities of a world class resort: pathways, decks, patio, pool, tennis court, and water features.
6. 72 White Pine Canyon Rd., Park City – $15,900,000
Home size: 17,422 sqft, 9 bedrooms, 15 baths
Lot size: 4.63 acres
What to like: Ski-in/ski-out property offers arguably some of the best skiing in the country right out your back door. Guest accommodations galore, including a separate caretaker’s house.
7. 7 Roamer Ct, Park City – $15,500,000
Home size: 14,100 sqft, 7 bedrooms, 10 baths
Lot size: 1.57 acres
What to like: Sits at the top of Deer Valley’s Silver Lake Village area in the very private gated Bald Eagle Club. Spectacular views for many miles down the valley, across the ski resorts and to the city lights. Has a billiard room, game room, multiple living areas, resort like ski room, indoor pool and spa and sauna and caretakers quarters.
8. 1401 W Two Creeks Cir., Park City – $15,500,000
Home size: 8,503 sqft, 6 bedrooms, 9 baths
Lot size: 7.34 acres
What to like: The mostly single level living home frames panoramic ski resort views through floor-to-ceiling windows from its seven flat acres, complete with a new pool, barn, and guesthouse right in the heart of town. Glass bridge over water, hand crafted ski lockers, custom stone, and Venetian plaster complement luxuries such as a wine cellar, theatre room, and ski prep.
9. 1559 E Tomahawk Dr., Salt Lake City – $14,500,000
Home size: 12,201 sqft, 5 bedrooms, 8 baths
Lot size: 25.6 acres
What to like: Distinctive, classically modern design honors its sense of place on over 25 acres amid open space on the Salt Lake City’s Federal Heights bench. Mountainside waterfall, balconies, swimming pool with a cascading edge, planter-edged patios, and an exquisitely complete outdoor kitchen. A bar, recreation room, library, theater, exercise room with spa, and game room complete the home’s livable luxury.
10. 184 White Pine Canyon Rd #184, Park City – $14,450,000
Home size: 20,309 sqft, 8 bedrooms, 14 baths
Lot size: 6.8 acres
What to like: Perfectly positioned near the base of the Flat Iron lift. This modern home in The Colony, offers three levels of luxurious living. Designed by architect Michael Upwall. Multiple outdoor areas were thoughtfully created for enjoying sunny winter afternoons and cool summer evenings. Balances modern simplicity and clean lines with the livable warmth of natural materials.
So there you have it. The 10 most expensive homes for sale in Utah right now. If you’re in the market for a new home, whether in the $15M and up price range, or a more modest budget like the rest of us, give our Buy Any Home a try.
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Frugal green living is important for everyone because environmental issues affect all of us, not just the people who can afford to be eco-conscious.
Plus the concept of frugal green means you are saving money! And that is always helpful.
This is why I created this blog, to help people save money, find financial freedom, and have choices in life.
Reducing your carbon footprint is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and the planet.
But how do you save money while also making a difference? It’s possible!
This is why choosing to be frugal green is so important!
These are all frugal ways that I have personally done or heard of other people doing as well. They are tried-and-true methods of living a more frugal life, and I hope that you will find them helpful. Plus help the environment at the same time.
This is a win-win situation.
Have you ever wondered how to be environmentally friendly?
Do you want to save money and the environment at the same time?
This article has 91+ frugal green living tips that will help! Let me know which ones are your favorites!
How to save money and be frugal green?
There are many ways to be frugal green and save money while helping the environment.
Plus in the long run living green costs less.
We will cover ideas for your kitchen, car, shopping and so much more. There are many other ways to be frugal green, so find what works best for you and make a difference!
These are ways to live more sustainably while saving money.
Importance of Sustainability and the Environment
You can save money and help the environment without making any major changes to your lifestyle.
Some easy ways to do this include, but are not limited to, changing your habits at home, buying used instead of new, and being more conscious about how you use energy.
Every day you can make the decision to choose to be a thrifty person.
Top 10 Best Frugal Green Living Tips
In order to save money and be more environmentally friendly, try some of these tips:
1. Reduce your use of plastics. This means bringing your own bags to the grocery store, refusing straws when you order drinks, and not using disposable utensils or plates.
2. Make Recycling a Priority. Recycling is important, and everyone should do their part to make it a part of their everyday routine. It’s not just for plastics and paper- there are many different things that can be recycled. By taking small steps like bringing a reusable coffee mug, we can all make a big difference in the long run.
3. Ride a bike or walk instead of driving. Not only is this better for the environment, but it’s also a great way to get some exercise.
4. Do the “green thing” and buy things secondhand! When you’re considering your lifestyle choices, buying things secondhand is a great way to do the “green thing.” You can save money and help reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills.
5. Only buy what you need. Many times we buy things out of convenience or wants. Truly evaluate whether the purchase is necessary or if you can save money by buying used.
6. Compost as much as possible. Not only does this help reduce waste, but it also helps create nutrient-rich soil for plants.
7. Consider your carbon footprint. Americans use a tremendous amount of resources and impact the planet in many ways. We consume a lot of energy, materials, and water. Our lifestyles have a big environmental impact. There are many ways to be frugal and environmentally conscious, including recycling and reducing food waste.
8. Cut Out Paper and Plastic Waste. One way to be more frugal and green is to reduce the amount of paper and plastic waste you produce. Technology has greatly improved in many ways to cut down on plastic and paper consumption, so take advantage.
9. Think Before You Throw Away and Buy New. We are way too quick to toss things and replace them without even thinking. Next time before you throw it into the landfill, think about how you can reuse, repurpose, or give away the item.
10. Upcycle. The concept of upcycling has gained popularity in the past years. It is a simple way of taking something ugly and worn down, putting some TLC into it, and making it into something beautiful.
Related Reading: Top 10 Influential Frugal Living Tips with a Big Impact
Being frugal and being environmentally conscious may not always go hand in hand.
In some cases, you may have to make a choice between buying an eco-friendly item that is more expensive or sticking with a cheaper, non-sustainable option.
However, many of the aims of frugal families link to eco-friendly living.
Below are simple sustainable products to consider buying instead of their wasteful counterpart.
Reusable food bags are a great way to reduce your environmental impact while also saving money.
There are a variety of different types of food grade eco-friendly bags on the market today. They are made of safe, eco-friendly materials that will not harm the environment and they are lead-free, chloride-free, and BPA free.
Bamboo straws are a great eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws.
They are compostable, meaning they will never pollute the environment or harm animals. Bamboo straws are odorless and tasteless, so you can use them with any drink. Reusable bamboo straws make a great addition to your everyday kitchen supplies.
These dish cloths are also super absorbent and work better than microfiber cloths and paper towels for cleaning.
They are made from cellulose, which is a soft material that is gentle on your hands. They can be used for a variety of tasks, such as dishwashing, wiping down counters, and polishing furniture. And they are durable enough to be reused multiple times.
A reusable K-cup is a great way to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying your favorite cup of joe.
Works perfectly in our house! Not only do they help you save money in the long run, but they also allow you to customize your coffee experience like never before. Plus, using a reusable k-cup is an easy way to reduce waste and help preserve our planet.
Frugal Green in the Kitchen & Table
There are a number of ways to save money and be frugal green in your kitchen.
Use a Reusable Coffee Mug. So simple and easy to do. Pick your favorite up here.
Skip plastic straws. This is a simple thing to do for the environment. Buy reusable straws. And don’t forget the cleaning brush (hint… the cleaning brush will save you from throwing away your reusable straws.)
Skip the Paper Plates and Plastic Utensils. You will be shocked to see the waste this creates. Invest in quality dishes you like and don’t be afraid to wash them up.
Invest in a Water Filter. If you’re looking for ways to improve your diet and save money, consider investing in a water filter. We upgraded to an under-the-sink mount water filter and it was the BEST choice ever! This is the exact one we bought.
Cook at Home. Making your own meals can save you a lot of money in the long run. You’ll be surprised at how much money you can save by cooking simple meals yourself.
Grow a Kitchen Garden. One way to reduce your food costs is to grow some of your own fruits and vegetables. You can start with a kitchen garden, which is a small plot of land near your house where you can plant fruits, vegetables, and herbs. if you don’t have space, check out these Aerogardens.
Stop Using Plastic Wrap. To reduce your reliance on plastic wrap is to invest in some beeswax food wraps. These work just as well as plastic wrap, but because they’re made of natural materials, you can reuse them over and over again!
Air dry dishes. This is because air-drying dishes use less energy than running a dishwasher and takes up less time.
Stick With Instant Pot. When you’re cooking, try to use a microwave or pressure cooker instead of your oven. Ovens produce a lot of heat and use up a lot of energy, so using these other appliances will help conserve resources. This is the Instant Pot/Air Fryer Combo I love (and use ALL.THE.TIME)!
Frugal Green Cooking & Menu Plan
This may not seem as environmentally conscious as other areas, however, it will help your wallet more.
Buy produce at the local market. Fruits and vegetables tend to be cheaper at the market than they are at the grocery store, so this is a great way to save some cash while also doing your part for the environment. Plus you save on the costs of trucking in the produce and support local.
Join a CSA. These community-supported agricultures have become popular ways for consumers to buy local and seasonal food directly from the farm. You normally have a dollar amount buy-in or a certain number of hours worked for food.
Enjoy Organic Foods. Organic foods may be worth the extra cost – organic food has a higher nutritional value than conventional food, plus it’s better for the environment because it doesn’t require pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Go Meatless. Americans, on average, eat twice the recommended amount of meat. Meat production is one of the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Consider your carbon footprint when making dietary decisions.
Shop Grocery Weekly Ads. Start by looking out for food sales at the grocery store. This can help you save money while also being more mindful of the environmental impact your food choices have.
Meal Plan. One great way to save money on groceries is to plan your meals ahead of time. This allows you to be more strategic in your shopping and can help you avoid buying items that you don’t need.
Use Leftovers. When you’re cooking a meal, always cook a little more than you need. This way, you’ll have leftovers that can be used to make another meal or stored in a glass jar for later use.
Pantry Challenge Time! One way to save money on your groceries is to consider doing a pantry cleanse. This means eating all the foods in your pantry that are sitting there. Then, only buy groceries that you know you’ll use. This can help you avoid overspending and wasting food.
Skip Pre-Made or Boxed Mixes. Making your own is a more affordable option, as pre-made or boxed mixes can be expensive. There are many recipes online that are healthy and affordable, and by planning ahead you can save time and money.
Shop the Perimeter of the Grocery Store. A lot of people want to save money and be more environmentally friendly, but don’t know where to start. One way to do both is to try to stick to the perimeter of the grocery store. This means avoiding the center aisles, where most processed foods and extra packaging are found.
Buy Generic Brands. Generic brands are less expensive than their name-brand counterparts. This is because generic brands do not have the same marketing and advertising costs as name-brand products. Many times the quality is the same or better!
Key Frugal Green Ideas While Shopping
These are environmentally friendly ways to improve your shopping habits. Many people may call this frugal minimalism.
Donate First. It’s easy to just dispose of something when it’s no longer needed, but sometimes that thing could be reused or recycled. For example, if you have an old TV that isn’t being used, try selling it or donating it before throwing it away. There are a lot of people who might need your old TV, and you can get some money for it if you sell it.
Buy Refurbished. On the other hand, if you’re in the market for a new TV, think about buying one that is refurbished instead of buying a brand-new one. Refurbished electronics often come with the same warranty as new ones and cost way less than buying a brand-new model.
Try Fixing First. Just because something is broken doesn’t mean you have to throw it away! Many times, things can be fixed very easily and cheaply. If your electronic device is leaking toxic chemicals, however, you should definitely not try to fix it yourself–take it to a professional recycler instead.
Reuse your own grocery bags. This will save both money and the environment, as disposable grocery bags often end up in landfills. Also, many stores are now charging for grocery bags, so save a few bucks at the store.
Do not buy new books. You can borrow books from the library or from friends, or you can buy them used. Buying new books wastes resources, and it’s often cheaper to buy them used.
Use the Library. The library has a wealth of books, movies, and music that you can borrow for free. Plus you can find access to tons of digital resources as well.
Shop Second-Hand Stores for your needs. These are great places to find clothes, furniture, and other household items at a fraction of the price.
Stop buying the paper version of the newspaper. Instead, get the daily news online for free. Not only will you save a few bucks each month, but you’ll also help reduce deforestation.
Shop at Sustainable Businesses. Thankfully, many companies focus on being sustainable businesses by making changes from production, to packing to shipping. As a whole, the industry could do better to create less waste. One sustainable company is the Everyone Store.
Think Twice on Gifts. Really consider what someone would want for a gift. Too many times we opt for quick and cheap gifts that are materialistic in nature and never be used. So, consider some of these money gift ideas instead.
Frugal Green Cleaning Products that Are Eco Friendly
You may not be environmentally aware of the hazards of using most cleaning products. In fact, you should check your normal cleaning products with EWG’s database and their standards.
DIY Baking Soda & Vinegar. Using green cleaning products is usually more expensive than traditional ones. Baking soda and vinegar are easy-to-find, cost-effective alternatives to environmentally unfriendly cleaners.
Use Microfiber Cloths. Personally, this is my favorite way to cut the expansive (and not-good-for-you) cleaning products. These microfiber cloths are just as effective at cleaning and will save you money in the long run.
Skip the Disposable Rags. Use up-cycled rags from old clothes to pick up spills.
Stop Using Air Fresheners. Reduce or eliminate the use of air fresheners, which release harmful chemicals into the air. Plus they are super costly!
Frugal Green & Energy Use in the Laundry Room
Use Detergent Powder. Washing your clothes in a washing powder uses less water than liquid tabs, which come in more plastic packaging. Also, the powder is a much better environmental solution and better for your body. This is the detergent powder we use and love (and those I recommended it to love it as well)!
Sniff Test. Implement the sniff test and only wash clothes when they fail the sniff test. Beware of this recommendation with teenagers!
Line Dry Clothes. Additionally, line drying clothes throughout the year can save a ton on your energy bill! Plus your clothes do not wear as quickly.
Watch Your Hot, Wash in Cold. One easy way to save money on your household bills is to reduce the amount of hot water you use. Heating water takes up a large percentage of the energy used in households, so by washing your clothes in cold water, you can cut down on your energy usage significantly.
Frugal Green in the Bathroom & Morning Routine
Use Less Shampoo or Soap. In order to save money on your grocery bill, you can use less shampoo than is recommended. If everyone did this, it would result in significant monetary and plastic savings.
Turn the water off while brushing your teeth. It is important to turn the tap off while brushing teeth in order to conserve water. Many people forget to do this, and as a result, millions of gallons of water are wasted every year.
If it’s yellow, let it mellow. If the toilet water is yellow, it’s ok to let it mellow. You don’t have to flush to turn it off every time. Thanks to auto-flush toilets in most places this is very common for people to forget to flush at home.
Take Cooler Showers. This may not be everyone’s favorite. But take a cool shower rather than a piping hot shower. Most of the energy used is the hot water heater warming up the water.
Use Every Last Drop! There are a few ways to get the most out of your products and conserve them- one way is to leave bottles upside down for a couple of hours after you’ve used them so that you can get the last bit of product out. You can also roll up toothpaste tubes to get the remaining paste out. Here is a great product to help you squeeze every expensive ounce out.
Related Reading: Billionaire Morning Routine: How To Achieve Success In Life
Green Lot with Frugal Green Landscaping
Xeroscape Your Lawn. Lawns are often seen as a status symbol, but they’re actually quite expensive and environmentally damaging. They require large amounts of water, fertilizer, and pesticides to maintain, which can leach into the groundwater and pollute the environment.
Change Mowing Schedule. Additionally, lawn mowing emits greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Water Less Often. While this sounds great in theory, you may not be able to fully switch to xeriscaping your yard. If you can’t switch, then check out this Rachio to lessen your dependence on water.
Frugal Green Home Ownership
There are many ways to save money and be more environmentally conscious at the same time when owning a home.
Your home is probably one of your biggest expenses, so it’s important to take measures to conserve energy and save money. Plus there are many ways to reduce the amount of energy your home consumes!
Home Improvement Math. When considering whether or not to make an improvement to your home in order to reduce your carbon footprint, always do the math to see if the improvement will actually pay for itself. Sometimes it will and sometimes it won’t so be sure to weigh all of the options before making a decision.
Downsize Your Home. If you live in a large house, consider moving into a smaller one. This will help you save on your energy bill and make your home more efficient.
Install low-flow fixtures. One way is to install low-flow fixtures, such as showerheads and faucets. This will reduce your energy use and, in turn, your monthly bills. You can also save water by taking shorter showers.
Hang UV Blocking Curtains. By stopping the sun from heating up your house with curtains during the day, you can save on cooling costs in the summer. Using UV blocking curtains is something we did and notice a significant difference in the summer and winter.
Run Appliances with Full Loads Only. Wait until you have a full load of dishes or laundry before running the dishwasher or washing machine. You would be surprised at the amount of energy and water it takes to run those appliances.
Be Reasonable with Air Conditioning Temperature. In the summer, don’t crank up the air conditioning to save on your energy bill. You can also set your thermostat a couple of degrees higher in the summer to save money. Also, you may want to start cooling your house earlier in the day to prevent your AC unit from working overtime and consuming more energy.
Program Your Winter Heating Temperature. In the UK, A/C is not as common as it is in other countries. Central heating is used more often and is set to a lower room temperature for the summer and a higher room temperature for the winter. This is because people want to save on their energy bills.
Open Windows to Cool House. When the weather is nice, open your windows to allow for natural cooling. This is a simple and cheap way to cool your house. Especially after a nice cool thunderstorm.
Buy Energy Efficient Appliances. Energy-efficient models might be more expensive in the short term, but they will save you money in the long run and help reduce your environmental impact. However, these products should only be bought when the older model is worn out–don’t replace something just because it’s energy-efficient!
Replace Windows. On the one hand, it’s a great idea to replace your windows with more energy-efficient models if you’re staying in your home for many years. However, if you plan on moving within a few years, it might not be worth the investment. You’ll need to weigh the cost of the windows against how much money you’ll save on your monthly energy bill.
Get a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats are a great way to save money on your energy bill. You can set them to turn off or down when you’re not at home, or during times of the day when you don’t need as much heating or cooling.
Look for Energy Leakage. The typical older home has enough energy leakage that it’s the equivalent of leaving your front door open all year long. You can combat this by installing weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows and adding insulation to your attic. Most utility companies offer an energy audit.
Weatherize your Home. Weatherizing your home is a great way to improve energy efficiency and save money on your energy bills. There are many things you can do this and varies on the area of the world you live in.
Sustainable Frugal Green Transportation
Ditch the Car Completely. One of the biggest expenses for many people is their car. Whether you’re paying for car payments, insurance, gas, or maintenance, it can be a lot of money. You can eliminate this expense by ditching the keys and taking public transportation. Not only will you save money on your monthly expenses, but you’ll also help the environment!
Buy Hybrid Cars. Hybrids cars are expensive but they could help you save money on fuel in the long run – hybrids tend to have lower emissions than conventional cars. So, it might be time to say bye to that beater car.
Drive Less and Play Your Route. Driving less is the biggest way to reduce fuel-guzzling trips. Take it a step further with UPS research on their strategic delivery methods and focus on making only right-hand turns.
Carpool Whenever Possible. carpooling is a much more green choice than driving alone.
Look Into Car Sharing. When you only need a car occasionally, or for short trips, it might be more convenient and affordable to use a car-sharing service. Car-sharing services offer the opportunity to have access to wheels when you need them, and they’re flexible and convenient for short trips.
Invest in Electric Scooter. This mode of transportation is the uber-popular. You don’t need cash for gas, money for registration fees, and completely reliable to get around quickly. Check out the best electric scooters on the market.
Ride a Bike. A commuter bike is much cheaper than a car. Plus you get the added benefits of exercise and no carbon waste. Or upgrade to an E-bike.
Telecommute. If you can do your work remotely, then telecommute more often than not. This will save on transportation costs as well as pollution.
Walk More Often. Plan your day around being able to walk places that take under 30 minutes to get there. Then, it is better to walk than drive. Plus you can hit your 10000 steps quicker. It is a triple for the win – health benefits, free exercise, and fresh air!
Don’t Run Your Engine Unnecessarily. Leaving your engine running unnecessarily while stationary can waste fuel and cause environmental damage. Make sure to turn your engine off when you’re not moving to save money and help the planet!
Drive More Efficient. When it comes to saving fuel, one of the best ways is to drive more slowly and efficiently. This will help you save petrol or diesel and reduce your carbon footprint. For example, slowly put your foot on the accelerate to maintain a speed.
Frugal Green Budgeting Per Month
Choose To Save Rather Than Spend. Every tie you actively choose to save your money rather than spend it. You help the environmental impact. We have plenty of popular money saving challenges to help you save more money today.
Pay Bills Online. When you pay bills online, you can save a lot of time, space, and money. You can also save paper by paying your bills online–instead of receiving paper statements in the mail, you can access them online.
Find Free Things to Do. This one is a win-win for frugality environmentalism. Focus on finding activities from this list of things to do with no money. Many of them are already frugal green wins.
Opt for Paperless. And finally, if you pay your bills online, you may automatically receive discounts on some of your monthly bills! Many companies now charge a $2-5 paper statement to be mailed.
Focus on Financial Independence. This may seem like a crazy idea, but it is true. The more you save, the faster you reach financial independence. In fact, this is with the Frugalwoods decided to be frugal in the first place.
Follow Simple Frugal Living Green Ideas – Way to Go Green
Reduce, reuse, recycle. This old mantra is more important than ever in today’s world. By recycling everything you can, you can help conserve resources and keep waste out of landfills.
Your Mindset is Everything. Just like with anything, if you decide to commit yourselves to become environmentally aware, then you are likely to succeed. You don’t have to become extremely frugal overnight. You just have to remember that mindset is everything in this process.
Turn off electronics when not in use. This includes televisions, computers, and other appliances. By turning them off, you’re conserving energy (and saving money). Plus some older appliances might be fire hazards if left plugged in.
Stop Junk Mail. One way to reduce the amount of junk mail you receive is to go through your postal mail and ask to be removed from lists you’re not interested in. This can be done by contacting the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) or specific companies that send you unsolicited mail.
Grab a Sweatershirt or Blanket when Cold. Instead of automatically adjusting the programmable thermostat higher, you can also save by wearing a sweater or using a blanket. Maybe turn on the fireplace before putting the heating on.
Invest in Renewable Energy. In today’s world, it is more important than ever to invest in renewable energy. There are many reasons for this:
First and foremost, using renewable energy helps to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to climate change.
Renewable energy also creates jobs and supports local businesses.
And finally, investing in renewables reduces our greenhouse gas emissions, helping to fight climate change.
In the long run, renewable energy can save you money and reduce emissions by providing power more reliably, often more cheaply than a traditional power source.
Are You Ready Live Life Frugal Green?
Living a more frugal lifestyle is good for the environment because it costs less.
It doesn’t take much to make small changes in your life that will have a big impact on the planet. For example, consume less and you’ll be doing the most earth-friendly thing you can do.
There are dozens of ways to save money and be more environmentally conscious which we covered in this post.
Being frugal and being green often go hand in hand.
However, most people lose steam after just a couple of weeks. So, do not attempt to do each frugal green living habit.
Pick your top 3 with the biggest impact.
Add one another 1-3 frugal living tips every month or so.
Over time, you will be surprised to see how easy it is to live frugal green, while also helping you to save money while also protecting the environment.
You can be the frugal green girl or gal with a few of these simple habits. Or choose to follow a frugal blog or frugal forum.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Whether you’re deciding on a new career path or wondering whether you’re being paid enough, it can help to know what the typical American worker earns per year.
Based on the latest data available from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the average annual pay in the U.S. in 2021 was $60,575 — an 8.89% jump from the previous year. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates the average worker made closer to $67,610 that same year. The amount you make may depend on a number of factors, including your occupation, where you live, your gender, and your level of education.
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Key Findings
Let’s take a closer look at how the average annual pay in the U.S. has changed over a three-year period based on data from both the SSA and BLS.
Year
Average Annual Salary per SSA
Average Annual Salary per BLS
2019
$54,099.99
$59,209
2020
$55,628.60
$64,021
2021
$60,575.07
$67,610
It can also be helpful to look at median earnings, which represent the midpoint of salaries in the U.S. In other words, half of the salaries fall below the median, and half are higher than the median.
The following table shows the median annual salary for a three-year period.
Year
Median Annual Salary
2022
$54,132
2021
$51,896
2020
$51,168
Source: BLS
As you can see, average and median incomes have risen each year. However, average salaries can be affected by various factors such as your occupation, age, and gender. Note that the numbers above also don’t include unearned income.
Examples of High-Salary Jobs in the US
Some industries tend to pay more than others, which means the career you choose may affect how much you earn. Here’s a sampling of high-paying jobs and their average annual salary, according to the BLS:
• Cardiologist, $353,970 per year
• Dentist, $177,770
• Aircraft pilots and flight engineer, $169,540
• Lawyer and judicial law clerk, $146,220
• Public relations manager, $138,000
• Air traffic controller, $127,920
Recommended: How to Reduce Taxable Income for High Earners
Average American Income by Occupation
While salaries tend to vary based on geography, seeing how much certain types of jobs pay can be informative. Let’s take a look at different occupations and how much they typically pay.
Occupation (Type)
Average annual salary
Management
$123,370
Legal
$113,100
Computer and Mathematical Operations
$99,860
Architecture and Engineering
$91,740
Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
$91,100
Business and Financial Operations
$82,610
Life, Physical, and Social Science
$80,730
Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media
$66,100
Educational Instruction and Library
$62,140
Construction and Extraction
$55,900
Community and Social Service
$53,960
Protective Service
$53,420
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair
$53,380
Sales (and Related)
$46,080
Office and Administrative Support
$43,430
Transportation and Material Moving
$41,340
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry
$34,730
Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance
$33,750
Personal Care and Service
$33,620
Healthcare support
$33,330
Food Preparation and Serving Related
$29,450
Source: BLS, May 2022 data
Keep in mind that average salaries may differ depending on the specific occupation you have. For example, although claims adjusters fall under the business and financial operations category, their average salary is around $70,960.
US Income by Gender
Demographics, specifically gender, are another factor to consider. By and large, men tend to outearn women throughout their career. The median annual salary for a 16- to 24-year-old man is $33,800; a woman of the same age earns $31,460, per the latest data available from the BLS. Likewise, the median annual salary for a man aged 25 and older is $60,320; a woman of the same age earns $49,608.
Median Income by State
Wages often vary based on where you live. In many cases, states with higher costs of living also have higher wages. For example, the median annual income in Hawaii is $100,532 — much higher than Mississippi’s median annual income of $61,205.
Below is the median income by state for a household of three people, according to data compiled by the Census Bureau between April 1 and May 14, 2022.
State
Median annual income
Alabama
$70,250
Alaska
$108,072
Arizona
$79,110
Arkansas
$70,169
California
$97,092
Colorado
$100,744
Connecticut
$108,409
Delaware
$96,841
District of Columbia
$138,342
Florida
$75,057
Georgia
$79,980
Hawaii
$100,532
Idaho
$76,635
Illinois
$97,067
Indiana
$81,783
Iowa
$85,758
Kansas
$88,369
Kentucky
$71,501
Louisiana
$71,371
Maine
$87,051
Maryland
$113,994
Massachusetts
$117,415
Michigan
$84,245
Minnesota
$106,445
Mississippi
$61,205
Missouri
$80,022
Montana
$79,652
Nebraska
$91,076
New Hampshire
$113,013
Nevada
$91,076
New Jersey
$117,697
New Mexico
$66,183
New York
$96,854
North Carolina
$76,386
North Dakota
$94,950
Ohio
$82,734
Oklahoma
$71,397
Oregon
$93,773
Pennsylvania
$92,441
Rhode Island
$101,104
South Carolina
$75,128
South Dakota
$87,475
Tennessee
$75,394
Texas
$80,733
Utah
$90,629
Vermont
$92,628
Virginia
$102,869
Washington
$104,644
West Virginia
$71,757
Wisconsin
$92,586
Wyoming
$88,902
US Income by Race
As the BLS data below shows, there is often a pay disparity among workers of different races and ethnicities.
• Asian, $69,056 per year
• White, $52,936
• Black or African American, $41,652
• Hispanic or Latino, $40,404
How Does Your Income Stack Up?
Now that you’ve seen some of the average and median annual salaries by occupation, location, gender, and race or ethnicity, how does yours compare? If you’re not making as much as you’d like, you may want to research wages in your industry and region, and use that information to help you negotiate a higher salary. If you’re ready to make a bigger change, you can use this data as you consider whether to switch to a more lucrative field or relocate to a higher-paying region.
Recommended: How to Negotiate Your Signing Bonus
How to Stretch Your Income
Here are some different strategies to help you make the most of the money you make:
Track Your Spending
Understanding exactly where your money is going can help you keep tabs on where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back. Consider using a spending app to track your spending and saving.
Negotiate Bills
Want to lower monthly expenses, such as your cell phone or internet services? Consider calling up various providers to see if you’re able to get a better deal or if there are promotions you can take advantage of.
Cut Back on Large Expenses
Housing, food, and transportation tend to be the largest line budget items. Explore ways to trim your biggest costs. Examples include refinancing your mortgage, negotiating your rent, shopping at discount grocery stores, and taking public transportation when possible.
Sharpen Your Marketable Skills
Accepting networking opportunities and taking professional development courses could help you become more marketable as an employee. This in turn could set you up to earn more in the long run. If you’re on a tight budget, look into no- or low-cost ways to cultivate high-income skills, and ask your employer if there are any free resources are available.
Pros and Cons of a High Salary
A high income can be great, but it does come with some downsides.
Pros:
• Improved quality of life: With more money, you can afford a higher standard of living and be able to afford different amenities such as better access to healthcare and food.
• Financial security: The more you earn, the more you can feel secure you have enough money to afford the things you want and need.
• Ability to achieve financial goals faster: Having more disposable income could mean you can set more money aside for long- and short-term savings goals, like retirement or going on a family vacation.
Cons:
• Higher taxes: Earning more can put you in a higher tax bracket. However, there are ways to reduce your taxable income.
• Pressure to maintain income: If you’re accustomed to a certain living standard, you may feel like you need to keep earning the same amount or more to maintain it.
• More work stress: In many cases, higher-paying jobs come with more responsibilities and at times, longer hours.
The Takeaway
Understanding what the average American worker makes in a year can come in handy, especially if you’re considering a new career path, negotiating a higher salary, or looking for a new place to live. According to the latest data from the Social Security Administration, the average annual pay in the U.S. is $60,575. But the amount you earn may depend on a wide range of factors, such as the industry you work in, where you live, your gender, and your race or ethnicity.
If you’re looking to make the most out of the money you earn, consider using amoney tracker app. The SoFi Insights app connects all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see all of your balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score monitoring, plus you can get other valuable financial insights.
Stay up to date on your finances by seeing exactly how your money comes and goes.
FAQ
What is a good salary in the USA?
There’s no one set amount that would be considered a good salary in the U.S. However, the average salary is around $60,575, according to the Social Security Administration.
What is the real average wage in the US?
The average wage in the U.S. is $67,610 according to the most recent data available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is the top 10 percent income in the US?
According to the Economic Policy Institute, the top 10% of workers in the U.S. earn $133,482.
How much should you be making at 30?
While there is no definitive amount you should earn by the time you’re 30, the average salary for U.S. workers aged 25 to 34 is $52,832, according to statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Photo credit: iStock/VAKSMANV
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Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article. Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances. SORL0423006
Check out the best cities for remote work to ensure all of your lifestyle needs are met when living and working remotely.
Since 2020, work-from-home (WFH) has become the new normal in the workplace. While some companies are pushing for a return to office, others are embracing remote work indefinitely. When the world is your oyster, where should you go to live and work remotely?
Well, the team at Rent. did our research to put together a list of the best cities for remote work. So, if you’re ready to explore the country while working remotely, consider any one of these top best cities for remote work.
The 10 best cities for remote work
As a remote worker, your physical location hardly matters. As long as you have a productive workspace and a strong internet connection, you can pretty much work wherever your heart desires. Do you enjoy sitting on a patio while you take your Zoom calls? Well, as long as your connection is strong you’re good to go!
We looked at a few things to make our recommendations:
Median rent and rent change year-over-year
Access to the internet and average internet speeds
WFH population and number of coworking spaces
If you’re a digital nomad who wants to fully embrace WFH, consider these top 10 locations across the country that have been named the best cities for remote work.
Median rent: $2,075
Average Mbps: 83.46
Number of coworking spaces: 68
% of population WFH: 19 percent
Orlando is the number one best city for remote work based on our ranking methodology. With a population of 309,154 people, it’s a perfect mid-sized city in the sunny state of Florida.
You’ve got well-known amusement parks. You’ve got crystal blue beaches and sunny skies. And, you’ve got a solid environment for remote work. Retirees and young professionals alike are flocking to Orlando and it’s easy to figure out why. Consider this city if you want to be a remote worker.
Median rent: $1,528
Average Mbps: 117.89
Number of coworking spaces: 78
% of population WFH: 38 percent
Austin is the second-best city for remote workers. It’s a hopping metro with a young millennial crowd. The rent is reasonably priced and there is no state income tax, which is a bonus for remote workers and residents alike. Austin is particularly appealing to the IT sector and is commonly called “Silicon Hills.”
So, if you’re a remote IT worker, this city is even better for you! But if IT isn’t your field of work, don’t fret: You can still live in Austin and enjoy the benefits of remote work in your chosen industry.
Median rent: $1,339
Average Mbps: 80.71
Number of coworking spaces: 11
% of population WFH: 13.2 percent
Ranking third on our list is the city of North Charleston in South Carolina. With a smaller population just shy of 120,000 people, this city is the perfect place to settle down to get a mix of big-city life with small-town charm.
People rave about the dining scene, so you can work remotely from a coffee shop or restaurant! This city is full of history and has a diverse cultural scene and stunning scenery. If you’re looking for a place that seemingly has it all, check out North Charleston.
Median rent: $1,338
Average Mbps: 76.26
Number of coworking spaces: 23
% of population WFH: 15.7 percent
Grand Rapids is a great city for outdoor recreation and beer scene. If you’re a digital nomad who wants to flex the Midwestern value of “work hard, play hard,” this is the city for you.
The city alone has over 40 breweries. You’ll be able to go on a nice trail walk and cool down with a beer. Additionally, it’s one of the largest office furniture-making cities in the U.S. So, you can definitely find yourself a sweet office set up for your remote work office here.
Median rent: $977
Average Mbps: 129.12
Number of coworking spaces: 7
% of population WFH: 12 percent
Columbus, GA, is the fifth city on our list of best cities for remote work. If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to live, consider Columbus. This city is rising in popularity as it’s an easy-going town with friendly people.
There are lots of parks, restaurants and bars so you’ll have a good mix of outdoor and indoor activities when you’re not working. One thing to note is that you may experience severe weather in this pocket of the country.
Median rent: $2,220
Average Mbps: 92.68
Number of coworking spaces: 92
% of population WFH: 38 percent
Because it’s a large metro, Atlanta is a great place to live and work remotely — or to look for an in-office job if you tire of the WFH life. You also have several large corporations headquartered here, such as Delta and Coca-Cola, so job options are plentiful and rent reasonable compared to similar-sized metros.
Median rent: $1,183
Average Mbps: 55.53
Number of coworking spaces: 15
% of population WFH: 12 percent
You don’t have to be a Packers fan to live in Green Bay (although it wouldn’t hurt!) People love this family-friendly city and rave about the small-town community traditions and vibe you experience living here.
Ranking seventh on our list of best places for remote workers, Green Bay has affordable living and is recently experiencing an influx of people moving here. Enjoy football games or farmer’s markets when you’re not working from home.
Median rent: $1,444
Average Mbps: 94.95
Number of coworking spaces: 128
% of population WFH: 15.6 percent
Houston is another Texas city that made our list of the best places for remote workers. It’s a larger city, compared to Austin, so if you’re looking for a big metro area in Texas, consider the nation’s fourth-largest city.
This metro is known for its diverse food and entertainment scene. Since it’s a huge city, you pretty much have a good mix of everything to do. Plus, rent is fairly inexpensive, making the cost of living affordable.
Median rent: $1,613
Average Mbps: 119.41
Number of coworking spaces: 26
% of population WFH: 33.1 percent
Another southern city makes our list of the top 10 best places to work remotely. Raleigh has great weather, so if you’re looking for a beautiful and mild place to live, this is for you.
Additionally, it’s known to be a great city for small businesses and entrepreneurs, which is good news for remote workers hoping to branch out on their own and network. It’s also been ranked as the most climate-resilient city, the best for work/life balance and one of the best places for college students to live.
Median rent: $1,041
Average Mbps: 82.95
Number of coworking spaces: 9
% of population WFH: 16.7 percent
Last but not least is Appleton, WI. With a population just shy of 75,000 people, Appleton is the smallest town on our top 10 list. So, if you’re looking for a quiet, small city to live and work remotely, this is the place for you.
Residents like the mix of outdoor activities and in-town activities. It’s also been named one of the best places to raise children. Check out Appleton if you’re wanting a great city to be a remote worker and raise a family.
Other cities to consider when working remotely
We’ve listed the cities that rank in the top 10 best places for remote work, but there are several other places across the U.S. that made our list, as well. Check out the top 100 cities in the nation that remote workers can call home.
Daytona Beach, FL
Savannah, GA
Rapid City, SD
Greenville, SC
San Fransisco
Chicago
Pittsburgh
South Bend, IN
Dallas
Waukesha, WI
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Chattanooga, TN
Greensboro, NC
San Antonio
Shreveport, LA
Interesting findings from the top 25 best cities for remote work
While looking at the data, we found some interesting highlights that are worth calling out.
24 of the 25 best cities for remote work are in the South or Midwestern United States.
Only one of the top 25 best cities for remote work is on the West Coast. San Francisco is the only West Coast city to make our list.
Florida, Georgia and South Carolina all rank well for remote workers with three cities in each state making the top 25 best cities for remote work.
The majority of the best cities for remote work have populations under 250,000 residents. While there are a few outliers, the best cities to WFH are generally smaller cities compared to large metro areas.
What to consider when working remotely
Regardless of where you choose to live to work remotely, there are a few common things you must consider to be a successful WFH employee. Here are a few considerations and questions to ask yourself when choosing a city for remote work.
How much internet speed do you need? Depending on your location — rural, suburban, or urban — your internet needs will vary. Having a strong internet connection and the right internet speed is crucial for success as a remote worker.
Do you have the right office set up? Relaxing poolside while responding to emails is appealing, but there are times when you’ll need a physical office or desk set up. Make sure you have the right desk, chair and computer equipment
How long do you plan to stay in your location? Some people choose to settle down in one place and others move frequently. Your choice will determine the length of your lease. You’ll want to consider if a fixed lease or month-to-month is better for your lifestyle.
Is your job remote-first indefinitely? Before you pack up and hit the road, ensure that your job is going to be WFH long-term. You don’t want to make a cross-country move only for your company to demand a return-to-office six months later.
Find the right city for you
With so many WFH options available, you really can go anywhere in the U.S. or the world, for that matter. We hope our data and insights on the best cities for remote work help you as you decide where to move and pursue a WFH lifestyle.
Remember, these are the best cities for remote work according to our methodology; however, there are several places in the country that may work for you. Do your research before moving and you are bound to find an apartment and place to live that fits all of your lifestyle needs.
Methodology
Cities were ranked and scored based on the following:
Rents: 30 points
Median Rent: 20 points
Rent Change YoY: 10 points
Internet Speed and Access: 40 points
Num. Int, Providers, 100mbps: 10 points
Avg. Mbps.: 20 points
Lowest Cost Int. Plan: 10 points
WFH Population and Coworking Spaces: 30 points
% Population WFH: 10 points
Coworking per 1,000 WFH: 20 points
Our rent prices and changes are from Rent.com’s Rent Report. Internet speed and access numbers are from Broadband Now.
The number of coworking spaces is from FourSquare. Population numbers and proportion of people working from home is from the Census’ American Community Survey (ACS).
Cities with insufficient data were excluded.
The rent information in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend in environmental sustainability and the need to address pollution in cities. Because of the growing awareness, many cities have made significant strides in this area, implementing measures to reduce pollution, promote clean energy, bring awareness around Earth Day and protect natural resources.
From innovative transportation solutions to community-based initiatives, these cities are leading the way toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the cleanest cities in the US, exploring their approaches to sustainability and the impact of their efforts on the environment and the community.
What defines a clean city?
Cities have been scored and ranked based on numerous, measurable factors. These factors include alternative fuel resources, recycling jobs and air pollution, registered alternative fuel vehicles and traditional fuel vehicles.
These factors were scaled, scored and ranked scored and ranked while controlling for differences in population and land area. Based on this ranking, we’ve compiled the top 10 cleanest cities worthy of analyzing.
Located just two hours outside of New Orleans, Lafayette is a smaller Louisiana city making a true difference for the environment. The city has about half a million alternative fuel vehicles registered, helping it secure this top 10 spot. The city’s “Cleanest City” initiative includes regular litter pickups, community beautification projects and environmental education programs for local schools.
Lafayette has also implemented policies to reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices. The city has installed energy-efficient LED lighting in public areas and established a recycling program to reduce waste. Lafayette has also introduced a public transit system that utilizes hybrid buses, reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.
Top apartments in Lafayette:
Rapid City has launched several initiatives to promote cleanliness and sustainability in the city. One of the most significant efforts is the “Keep Rapid City Clean and Green” program. Through this program, the city has organized numerous community clean-up events, including litter pickups and recycling drives. Rapid City has also implemented a public education campaign to raise awareness about reducing waste. This initiative has also helped contribute to the city’s level of recycling jobs available.
Rapid City has also implemented policies to reduce pollution and promote sustainable living. For example, the city has established a bike-sharing program to encourage more people to use sustainable transportation options. Rapid City has also introduced a public transit system that utilizes hybrid buses, reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.
Top apartments in Rapid City:
One of the most significant efforts Duluth is making is the “Clean and Green Duluth” program, which encourages residents to take an active role in keeping the city clean. Through this program, the city has organized community clean-up events and litter pickups and has implemented a “zero waste” program at many public events. The zero-waste program has contributed to the city’s low pollution score along with its energy-efficiency initiatives.
Duluth has installed energy-efficient LED lighting in public areas and has introduced a public transit system that utilizes hybrid buses. In addition to these green initiatives, the “Bag it Duluth” initiative aims to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags by promoting the use of reusable bags through monetary rewards with partnering businesses.
Top apartments in Duluth:
Located 63 miles outside of Denver, Greeley is a green city securing our seventh spot. Greeley has implemented several initiatives to beautify their city. One of the most significant efforts is the “Greeley-Evans Transit” program, which provides public transportation services using hybrid buses. The use of hybrid buses reduces emissions and promotes sustainable transportation in the city.
Another notable initiative in Greeley is the “Clean Energy Plan,” which sets a goal of 100% renewable energy by 2030. As an extension of renewable energy efforts, the city has installed energy-efficient lighting in public areas and has a bike-sharing program to encourage sustainable transportation.
Top apartments in Greely:
With a low pollution score and 1 recycling job per 1 resident, Cedar Rapids has earned the title of a clean city. The city has committed to using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce its carbon footprint. The city has installed several solar panels, including a large array at the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena.
Cedar Rapids has also launched several programs to help residents and businesses reduce their energy usages, such as the “Bright Ideas” program that offers free energy audits and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. Additionally, the city has implemented a “Green Building Policy” that requires all new city-owned buildings to meet certain environmental standards, such as LEED certification.
Top apartments in Cedar Rapids:
Laredo is taking proactive steps to become a more sustainable and environmentally friendly city, with a focus on recycling, energy efficiency and green spaces. This Texas metro has a network of parks, open spaces and natural areas that provide residents with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The city has also implemented a program to plant more trees in the community, further beautifying these spaces.
Laredo is showing commitment to improving energy efficiency in municipal buildings, as well as promoting energy efficiency in homes and businesses. The city has implemented a program to replace streetlights with energy-efficient LED lights.
Top apartments in Laredo:
Lincoln’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2040, along with other initiatives, has earned it the fourth spot on our list. The city has already installed several solar arrays and wind turbines to work towards this goal in addition to implementing several programs to help residents and businesses reduce their energy usage. One program called the “Green Challenge” program offers free energy audits and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades.
Lincoln is working to promote sustainable transportation options, such as walking, biking and public transit, which is reflected in the city’s low number of traditional fuel-registered cars. The city has implemented a bike share program and is expanding the network of bike lanes and trails. The city also has a public transit system that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG), which is a cleaner-burning fuel than traditional gasoline.
Top apartments in Lincoln:
Known for its stunning scenery, Cheyenne is doing its part to protect these views and surrounding plains. Cheyenne has implemented several programs to help residents and businesses reduce their energy usage, such as the “Green Business Program” which offers energy audits for free and rewards for energy-efficient upgrades.
Through these initiatives, Cheyenne has a goal of achieving 100% renewable energy for its municipal operations by 2025, and the city has already installed several solar panels on city buildings. Water conservation is also top-of-mind, through the implemented programs to promote water conservation, including a program to install low-flow showerheads and toilets in homes and businesses.
Top apartments in Cheyenne:
Hot Springs takes the second spot with a low pollution score and ample recycling jobs along with other green-friendly initiatives. This Arkansas city has a comprehensive recycling program for residents, which includes the collection of paper, plastics, glass and other materials. The city also provides free recycling bins to residents and has a curbside recycling program.
Additionally, Hot Springs has implemented green building standards for new construction and renovations. The city provides resources and incentives for developers and homeowners to incorporate energy-efficient and sustainable features into their buildings.
Top apartments in Hot Springs:
Also known as the Quad Cities, Davenport-Moline-Rock Island has taken several steps to become a more environmentally sustainable region, earning our title as the cleanest city. The Quad Cities has several renewable energy projects, including a solar farm in Moline, Illinois, and a wind farm in Iowa. The region is also exploring additional opportunities for renewable energy development, setting a precedent for green initiatives.
The Quad Cities recycling program has diverted millions of pounds of materials from landfills. In 2019, the region’s recycling rate was approximately 43%, which is higher than the national average. With the highest number of recycling jobs on this list, at a whopping 530, the quad cities are clearly investing in the future of the area and of the earth as well.
Top apartments in Quad Cities:
Creating a better world for present and future generations
These cities are setting an example for the rest of the country to follow. Through their commitment to recycling, low levels of pollution and the adoption of alternative fuel vehicles amongst residents, these cities are taking significant steps towards reducing their environmental impact and creating a healthier and more sustainable future.
In sum, these metros demonstrate that clean, green living is not only possible but can also lead to greater economic prosperity, improved public health and a higher quality of life. As more communities adopt similar measures, we can work towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for all. For more green-friendly apartment cities, search here.
Homes are bought every day around the country using the VA loan. Even in the current housing shortage, veterans and active duty military members are still finding homes to purchase.
Of course, some areas are going to be easier to buy a home in than others, and some places have more homes available for people to buy.
But where are veterans buying homes?
Fortunately, the VA keeps track of all mortgages processed through their system. A recent data series was released by the VA showing the counties with the most VA loans, IRRRLs and cash-out refinances. It sheds a little light on where the most popular spots for veterans to buy a home are.
Click to check today’s VA rates.
The most popular spots for veterans to buy a home
The VA took data from all 3,076 counties that process some type of VA mortgage product between 10/01/2017 – 5/31/2018. In that period (what is just about half a year), the VA closed a total of 411,282 loans. Of those, 236,501 were purchase loans. That means that veterans are on pace to purchase over 500,000 homes using the VA loan in a one-year period.
The VA breaks it down further, showing how many of each mortgage product were used in each county. Here were the top 10 for purchase loans:
Maricopa, Arizona – 4,850
Bexar, Texas – 3,899
El Paso, Colorado – 3,822
San Diego, California – 3,792
Clark, Nevada – 3,297
Riverside, California – 2,591
Pierce, Washington – 2,083
Hillsborough, Florida – 2,018
Harris, Texas – 1,981
Tarrant, Texas – 1,839
Based on the data, veterans are mostly moving west or to Texas, with three of the top 10 counties being in Texas. Aside from that, the west coast (California and Washington) has three as well, with Nevada, Arizona and Colorado being popular picks.
Unsurprisingly, Florida was also a popular spot for veterans to buy a home. Not only is Florida a traditional retirement spot, but it also has affordable housing relative to some of the other counties on this list.
What’s interesting is that a lot of veterans are moving to areas with big cities. San Diego is a larger city, and Clark, Nevada is home to Las Vegas.
Cash-out refinance loans prove popular
Along with purchase loans, the VA offers two types of refinances: the IRRRL and the cash-out refinance. Of the two, the cash-out refinance proved to be much more popular with 112,594 refinances closing during the same period, as compared to 62,187 for IRRRL.
Cash-out refinances are different from IRRRL for a few reasons. First, veteran homeowners are allowed to take cash out of their equity and use it for whatever they want – be it a renovation, a new boat or even a vacation.
Second, cash-out refinances are available to all veterans, even if they didn’t use a VA loan to purchase their house.
Also, many veterans that have lived in their house for over 10 years may be able to reduce their mortgage rate as well, saving on monthly payments. There are a variety of reasons that veterans get refinances, but cash-out proves to be the most popular.
A lot of cities are more than happy to welcome newcomers into the fold, but Ames does it better than anywhere else.
There are a lot of factors that go into choosing a new city to call home. What’s the job market like? How about the schools, cost of living and proximity to family?
There’s one intangible that’s extremely important and often overlooked during the decision-making process, and that’s how welcoming the city is to newcomers, especially foreign and domestic immigrants. Nobody wants to wind up somewhere they’re not really wanted and appreciated for their talents, after all.
A lot of cities have come a long way in making all types of people feel wanted and included. Some cities have programs in place (via the government or otherwise) specifically to help with immigrant well-being. For example, the Philadelphia non-profit The Welcoming Center has an Intercultural Wellness Program which teaches immigrants how to navigate their new surroundings and find solutions to common problems. Although less daunting than moving into a foreign land with totally different languages and customs, it’s also important for people who migrate from other areas of the country to select a city that can make them feel at home and valued.
Aim for opportunity in Ames
It’s no longer necessary to fly blind during the decision-making process since the Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative crunched the numbers and ranked U.S. cities on how welcoming they are to new residents. At the top of the list of most welcoming cities is the metro of Ames, Iowa, which is a little bit north of Des Moines and smaller than any other metro in the top 10 — with a population of only 126,000. Here are some of the ways that Ames stands out from the pack.
Ames is a well-known safe haven
There are so many conflicts going on right now, causing people to flee their beloved homeland. The Ames metro area has welcomed many immigrants from Honduras, Ukraine, South Sudan and other countries in recent years as they exit war-torn and otherwise dangerous situations in hopes of finding prosperity and peace.
At 7 percent, the immigration rate in Ames, Iowa, is higher than in many other cities, likely due to the area’s reputation for happily taking on people who need a friendly face, a warm bed and plenty of professional opportunities.
Some of this is likely due to the fact that Ames is home to Iowa State University, which has excellent programs in engineering, agriculture and many other areas of study. The Bush study noted that college towns and other “knowledge-centric” cities tend to be the most welcoming, so Ames’s spot at the top of the list makes perfect sense.
Opportunities abound in Ames
Ames boasts a very high opportunity score of 27.5 when compared with other cities. This means that Ames offers a better quality of life than the areas where the immigrants and migrants are coming from.
This is all great news, considering many newcomers are looking for their luck to change for the better. For a frame of reference, the Orlando metro area only has a score of 8.7, and Jacksonville’s is even lower at 5.8.
Other reasons people are moving to Iowa
In austere economic times, many people are looking for cities where the dollar stretches as far as possible. This makes moving to the Hawkeye State appealing, as the cost of living in Iowa is well below the national average.
As a college town, Ames is especially affordable, with a cost of living 19.7 percent below the national average. The average one-bedroom apartment rents out for $805 per month, and a two-bedroom unit is only slightly more at $872.
Ames, Iowa, is also growing by leaps and bounds, which translates into tons of job and educational opportunities. Since immigrants are known entrepreneurs, often opening their own businesses and thus adding to the area’s economic stability, this growth only adds to the area’s appeal. There are also many opportunities to kick back and enjoy life, thanks to booming arts, entertainment, retail and dining scenes near the university.
Great apartments to rent in Ames
Most college towns have more than enough apartments available for rent, and Ames is no exception. Brick Towne Ames is an attractive – you guessed it – brick apartment community with a pool, clubhouse and other amenities.
Prairie West is one option that gives would-be renters a choice between regular and upgraded units, or people who long for high-end housing might opt for a unit in Campus Flats.
Ames is clearly a friendly place
Ames, Iowa, is just over there in the Midwest quietly excelling at everything, but especially at being welcoming. This benefits immigrants, migrants and residents of the area in more ways than you’d at first imagine.
Looking for a place to live in this welcoming university city? Start here!
Are you one of Beyonce’s Single Ladies? Member of the Lonely Heart’s Club? Whether you celebrate your singleton status or just can’t find a decent date, having a bigger pool of eligible candidates to draw from certainly helps your chances. Apartment Guide has dug deep into the data to help uncover the cities where you can find the most single folks in the United States and how the data differs between men and women in that metro area. If you’re single and looking for your next move, here’s where to start.
U.S. Cities With the Greatest Percentage of Single Men
U.S. Cities with the Greatest Percentage of Single Women
This data is sourced from Maponics based on self-reporting households. Single households are defined as households with no children under the age of 18 in which the head of the household is unmarried. Household is defined by the US Census Bureau as one or more people who occupy a housing unit.
When it comes to finding single men, it would appear that heading out west is the way to go. Six of the top 10 cities with the greatest percentage of single men are in California; more specifically around Los Angeles. It seems that L.A. isn’t just great for movie stars and fancy cars, it’s also great for finding single guys!
Great spots for finding single ladies, on the other hand, seem to be sprinkled around the entire country. The Midwest claims the top two spots, with Gary, IN and Detroit, MI coming in strong with slightly over 22% of self-reporting households claiming to be single women. That’s a pretty packed ladies night.
So why does it seem that the percentage rates of single women households are significantly higher than the men? It would appear it comes down to population. According to US Census Bureau demographic information of the United States in 2014, there were about 125.9 million adult women as compared to 119.4 million adult men. That’s a difference of 6.5 million.
Are you currently single and looking for love? Would you ever consider moving to widen your dating pool? Let us know below!
When it comes to the best places to live in America, it’s more than just civic pride that earns a place a spot on the list. U.S. News & World Report recently published their list of the 100 best places to live in the USA, analyzing elements such as value, desirability, a strong job market and a high quality of life. If you’re looking for your next location and want to pick from the cream of the crop, check out some of these cities as your next potential target.
The Top 10 Best Places to Live According to US News & World Report
#1: Austin, TX
Love music? Crave more culture than you can shake a stick at? Then Austin, TX is the place for you. According to the study, about 50 people move to Austin every day. Cited as “Live Music Capital of the World” and home to two of the country’s biggest music, film and media festivals with Austin City Limits and South By Southwest, it’s no surprise it’s a hot destination for many renters. Find apartments in Austin, TX
#2: Denver, CO
Known as the “Mile High City” due to its towering 5,280 feet above sea level elevation, Denver has recently shed its image of a wild west mountain town for a more cosmopolitan image. Though it’s undeniable that it is a perfect location for snow sports enthusiasts, Denver’s progressive attitude towards the legalization of recreational marijuana and its related industries has certainly seen a hike in the city’s desirability. Not a nature lover or fitness nut? There’s an emerging arts and brewing scene here that can’t be overlooked. Find apartments in Denver, CO
#3: San Jose, CA
Do you know the way to San Jose? Though the famous lyrics may not know how to get there, it would appear that renters across the country do. Nicknamed the capital of Silicon Valley, it’s little wonder that this California stalwart is huge for those in tech. It’s not all business, though — San Jose is also great for hiking, camping and enjoying the great outdoors. Bonus: San Jose has over 300 sunny days a year, so feeling those mid-winter blues will be a thing of the past. Find apartments in San Jose, CA
#4: Washington, DC
It’s more than politics that drive people to move to the nation’s captial, and everyone from foodies to culture vultures can find a neighborhood that suits them perfectly. DC is home to a terrifically extensive public transportation system, so getting around without a car is easy. Additionally, the city is full of public parks, meaning you can still have fun in the great outdoors without losing the heartbeat of an urban environment. Find apartments in Washington, DC
#5: Fayetteville, AR
Arkansas? Really? You bet. Full of good old-fashioned southern hospitality and currently feeling an economic boom, Fayetteville attracts those that crave a friendly, family-type atmosphere. Its close proximity to the Ozarks makes it a destination for lovers of the outdoors, and the city speaks to those who love the arts and local food movements. Find apartments to rent in Fayetteville, AR
#6: Seattle, WA
Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and home to a hip, urban environment, there’s a lot more to Seattle than just grunge and coffee. The people here personify “laid back,” making it a hot spot for start-ups and tech firms of all sorts. Despite the hills, bike commuting is popular, and there’s an extensive bus system that runs throughout the downtown area. And no — it doesn’t rain all the time. In fact, New York City actually gets more rain annually. Find apartments in Seattle, WA
#7: Raleigh & Durham, NC
Part of the North Carolina Triangle, this area is pulling in about 80 new residents a day. Affordable rents and shorter commute times add up to a great quality of life factor in Raleigh-Durham which has attracted a younger population to the metro area. Kick back with one of the many local microbrews and enjoy the growing arts and music scene. With a lower cost of living than the national average, you’ll be able to afford the fun. Find apartments in Raleigh, NC Find apartments in Durham, NC
#8: Boston, MA
Drenched with history and flooded with culture, there’s a lot to love about Boston. Home to world-class educational institutions, hospitals, eclectic music and arts scene and one of the nation’s oldest ballparks, the people of Boston are a diverse bunch. Everyone from recent college grads all the way to retirees love the city, and each neighborhood offers up something different. Though considered expensive comparatively to the national average, it’s money well spent for a city like this. Find apartments in Boston, MA
#9: Des Moines, IA
“Is this heaven? No, it’s Iowa” as the famous line from Field of Dreams said — and Des Moines is no exception. This midwest gem may not sound like a must move destination, but it’s got it where it counts. Despite its population of 600,000, Des Moines has a neighborly feel making it a popular place to raise young families. With rents and cost of living below the national average, it’s worth consideration as a great place to live in America’s crossroads. Find apartments in Des Moines, IA
#10: Salt Lake City, UT
Though Salt Lake City has devout roots in religion and Mormon faith, this city definitely changes with the times. Lovers of the great outdoors revel in the close proximity to five national parks and a few excellent ski resorts, while those with more urban leanings find fun in the city’s sports teams and many downtown entertainment options. Cost of living is fairly inexpensive compared to the national average, and with more apartments and condos being built availability is high. Find apartments in Salt Lake City, UT
To read more about US News & World Report’s methodology, click here.
Are any of these cities on your moving bucket list? Do you agree with the report? Let us know what you think below!