Economy
Thirty-seven percent of American parents of young children expect financial help from parents or grandparents in the coming year. The growing reliance on family money exposes sharp divides in childcare costs, wealth and intergenerational support.
Economy
A 7% mortgage rate is not historically unusual, but today it sits on homes that cost far more relative to household income. Higher prices, insurance, taxes and down-payment barriers are turning ordinary borrowing rates into an extraordinary family-budget burden.
Economy
Five years of inflation permanently raised the cost of everyday American life. The evidence shows supply shocks drove much of the surge, while corporate pricing power amplified pressure in some markets.
Economy
Maine gas prices reached $4.41 a gallon as delivery, rideshare and courier workers reported rising fuel costs cutting deeply into earnings. The pressure shows how vehicle expenses can turn a fuel shock into an immediate wage squeeze.