Summary
A study by InvestorsObserver indicates that in 10 U.S. states, workers must spend a large part of the year covering basic expenses like rent, groceries, and savings for a used car. Rising costs have outpaced wage increases, meaning residents in these states need more workdays than in 2007 to afford the same expenses. Hawaii, New Jersey, and Maryland are the most impacted states, requiring the most workdays for basic living costs.
Key Facts
- Workers in 10 U.S. states spend a significant portion of the year on basic expenses.
- On average, nationwide workers need 66 days to cover rent, food, and a used car.
- Hawaii requires 86.6 workdays annually, the highest among the states.
- New Jersey and Maryland also rank high, with 83.6 and 80.9 days, respectively.
- In California, workers need 75.3 days due to rising housing costs.
- Delaware requires 80.3 days, with a significant increase since 2007.
- From 2007 to 2025, the workdays needed in these states have increased on average by 15.6 days.
- Costs have risen faster than wages, especially affecting housing and vehicle costs.
