In different cities across the United States, the value of $100 varies due to differences in the cost of living. A study by GOBankingRates revealed that in Massachusetts, $100 is worth $93.40, while in Missouri, it is worth $108. The analysis also provided insights into median household incomes, typical home values, and annual cost-of-living expenditures for various states.
In a recent article by Fast Company, four individuals living on less than six figures shared their financial experiences. Let's take a look at the stories of David, Katherine, Rachel, and Anna, living in Massachusetts, Colorado, Missouri, and Michigan, respectively:
1. **David in Massachusetts**:
- David is a 22-year-old graduate student in Boston, originally from Ghana.
- Despite earning $45,000 annually, he leads a comfortable life in a four-bedroom apartment shared with roommates.
- His monthly expenses include $1,300 for rent and utilities, $300 for food, and he saves around $1,000 monthly.
- David aspires to pursue a faculty position in the future with a higher income but emphasizes personal fulfillment over financial gain.
2. **Katherine in Colorado**:
- Katherine, a 23-year-old in Lakewood, works in media relations with a household income of $50,000.
- She splits expenses with her sister in a three-bedroom house and spends on her car, student loans, food, and entertainment.
- Katherine has $30,000 in savings but aims to start investing and desires further career growth despite challenges in the media industry.
3. **Rachel in Missouri**:
- A 53-year-old marketing consultant/copywriter in St. Louis, Rachel earns $65,000.
- She relocated from Los Angeles for better financial stability, owning a condo with her husband.
- Rachel aims for a higher income to enhance savings, lifestyle, and retirement planning given her husband's health concerns.
4. **Anna in Michigan**:
- Anna, a remote writer in Jackson, with a household income of $55,000, shares a three-bedroom house with her partner.
- To cope with financial constraints, they economize on expenses, and Anna hopes to secure better financial stability for retirement and quality of life improvements.
These narratives reflect varied experiences of individuals navigating different costs of living, financial aspirations, and lifestyle preferences in their respective cities.