As of the end of 2023, the typical U.S. worker could afford the same goods and services as in 2019, prior to the pandemic, and had an additional $1,400 to spend or save per year, according to a January analysis by Treasury officials.
Demar Byas of Pontiac, Michigan referred to experts touting the nation’s economic performance as a “slap in the face.”
“You’re celebrating these numbers, but we are struggling,” said Byas, who juggles several jobs to make ends meet. “It’s no relief in sight, and just say those numbers and to celebrate that, and as I said stuff becomes a slap in the face.”
Not being white collar who can move wherever they want and constantly get raises. There’s a gigantic portion of the workforce that doesn’t have that option.
As a blue collar worker ANY job change comes with a gigantic pay cut…
I’ve been in the same loop for 15 years now… Spend 5 years at a company, get slight raises, leave for a new job for my mental health, take pay cut, repeat.