SmartReads

As a middle-class American, there is some expectation for living a lifestyle of relative comfort. But as costs have increased significantly over the last few years, the middle class is now feeling a squeeze in their finances. Accordingly, the income limits that define the middle class have also increased to reflect what most Americans are… read more…

Prices on individual goods and services can take on their own characteristics based on unique supply and demand challenges throughout different locations nationwide. Air travel in particular faces unique pressures including staffing, equipment maintenance, fuel, passenger demand and more. In turn, the price of domestic flights can affect tourism, visits to family, and business opportunities.… read more…

Wildfires have become more prevalent in the U.S. over the last few decades. Like many other climate events, they can have a devastating effect on communities, destroying buildings and homes, closing businesses, damaging agriculture and changing the local ecology. Ultimately, with the increase in wildfires, some insurance companies have pulled their services out of specific… read more…

Rent is a top expense for many Americans, so increases may disproportionately affect their budget. Between February 2023 and 2024, inflation as a whole went up by 3.15%. While the average rent increase in U.S. major cities was at parity with inflation, some cities saw rent increase as high as 8.0% – and others actually… read more…