I actually have a pretty low cost of living area compared to a lot of people. An apartment a few years ago could be found for 500$. A lot of people started relocating here from two major cities and it’s gone up to like 900$ minus for most places.
But the area if mostly warehousing, retail and fast food. 15$ an hour is considered good here, but if you have a car payment, high insurance, even with a second income that’s hard to pull off. I have about 500$ at the end of the month to save. I work at a good company and hope to have a promotion next year.
Only reason my partner and I are good is because we get our apartment through family at 600$ a month. Our friends are having so much trouble getting an apartment with the average wage here.
Going back to school is hard for some people. I have very bad mental health issues and my stress tolerance isn’t great admittedly. I have panic attacks, and even going part time online to school with full time work, even at one class, is incredibly stressful for me.
I’m working on myself, but not everyone can cram school for a better job…