So I saw this map ranking all 50 states from easiest to hardest to save money, and… not gonna lie, I immediately went to find my state. (I’m in California, and yep—we’re #47. Not surprised, just disappointed )
But when your rent is $2k for a 1-bed and groceries cost more than your monthly therapy… how are we supposed to win?!
Anyway, Bankrate looked at stuff like cost of living, taxes, job growth, and savings interest rates.
Here’s the tea:
Top 5 Easiest States to Save Money:
• #1 Tennessee — Low taxes, affordable life = savings paradise
• Also high up: Mississippi, Texas, Idaho, and Florida
Top 5 Hardest States to Save Money:
• #50 Hawaii — Stunning beaches, brutal prices
• Plus: California (#47), New Jersey (#49), Alaska, and New York (#41)
Have you ever thought about moving just to lower your cost of living? (I low-key look at Texas listings more than I should…)
I’d love to hear how others are managing. Drop your thoughts (or vent session) below
I feel this in my taxed-to-death soul. California really said “sunshine tax” and meant it. Saving here feels like trying to fill a leaking bucket, with avocado toast plugging the hole.
I’ve definitely flirted with Zillow listings in Texas and Tennessee like it’s my part-time job. But then I remember: I’d be trading my overpriced oat milk for humidity and traffic I don’t know yet.
Still, when $2k rent gets you a shoebox with “natural light” (aka one sad window), the idea of relocating doesn’t sound so wild. Curious how people balance lifestyle vs. savings, because in CA, I’m not sure we’re meant to have both. Sad
)
Top 5 Easiest States to Save Money:
Top 5 Hardest States to Save Money:
California really said, “You can have vibes or savings—but not both.”