This gives me some hope! I am fine with not living in an affluent place. We are not fancy by any means because a huge chunk of our income goes to taking care of our rescue animals and student loans. As long as we are safe with a decent roof over our heads and a nice yard, we're a-ok.

Good to know about the school salaries! After 21 YEARS of teaching in NC, my partner makes what you are listing as a starting salary in MA!

Thanks freakin amazing about your water meter. That would 1000% never happen like that in Chicago!