So, the CPI is at 8.6%. That 10% raise earlier in the year is looking like not much. That was the cost of living adjustment. The standard annual pay raise is happening next month. Then again, giving a raise in July is a brilliant tactic by my employer to cop out of half a year's worth of raises.
On the bright side, I'm doing all right. I am annoyed with the inflated prices, but I am surviving. What's concerning is the rising housing prices in Utah.
According to the map, you would need to make $94K a year to afford a home in Utah. That's much higher than the $80K figure before the pandemic. Of course, there are cheaper options in certain parts of the state, but your mileage may vary. It's starting to feel like California around here.
I overheard several younger coworkers discussing moving out of the state to places where homes are more affordable. Even renting a studio to live by yourself would cost you over $1500 a month these days. That doesn't even include utilities and whatnot. I can see why some of them would even choose to live with their parents if possible.
Hell, the house my ex got for $275K back in 2019 is worth well over $500K in 2022. The market is great if you are selling. But, if you aren't downsizing or moving to a different state, that price tag doesn't mean much. You aren't winning if you aren't trading for a better deal after selling your house. Besides, a home is not that liquid anyhow.
I once thought about getting a bigger house. The better plan now might be to obtain land in central and southern Utah and throw a trailer on top of it. And maybe, I could add a house to it later. I might also consider doing some land grab in Missouri with some friends. Why Missouri? Personal reasons.
If you aren't tied down in one location like I am, there are still plenty of affordable places left in the US. Since I can't leave at the moment, I will stick to my modified plan and continue to fight against the waves.