I live in New York. I have a $200k house with over $6k in taxes, most of which for schools and public safety. Educational programs are flat or being cut, but employee expenses have ballooned over the last 10-15 years. The fully loaded cost of a $80-100k teacher includes about $25k in pension contribution, $15-20k in healthcare, etc. For the police/fire department, it's even crazier (they have 20 year retirement)
My personal experience is better than most. We have a good household income, and I've been promoted a few times in the last 10 years. On average our household compensation increases by 7%.
But... my net spending power is flat or down a little. Why? Property taxes up 30% since 2006. Health insurance up 150%. Food up ~30%. Utility bills up 50% (NY fail).
I live in New York. I have a $200k house with over $6k in taxes, most of which for schools and public safety. Educational programs are flat or being cut, but employee expenses have ballooned over the last 10-15 years. The fully loaded cost of a $80-100k teacher includes about $25k in pension contribution, $15-20k in healthcare, etc. For the police/fire department, it's even crazier (they have 20 year retirement)
My personal experience is better than most. We have a good household income, and I've been promoted a few times in the last 10 years. On average our household compensation increases by 7%.
But... my net spending power is flat or down a little. Why? Property taxes up 30% since 2006. Health insurance up 150%. Food up ~30%. Utility bills up 50% (NY fail).