Do We Have It Harder Financially Than Our Parents?
Oct 24, 2024
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The hosts dive into the financial realities of the ’80s versus today, examining generational struggles with home buying and education costs. They highlight how fashion has evolved in travel and the significance of access to financial tools now available. A fun guessing game on housing prices ensues, revealing dramatic increases over the decades. The duo also shares personal anecdotes and discusses the implications of current mortgage rates and social media on home ownership. Lastly, they lighten the mood with fast food confessions and a pumpkin spice espresso martini tasting!
46:53
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Quick takeaways
Home buying has become significantly more challenging today due to soaring prices and changing consumer expectations compared to the 1980s.
Access to vast online resources has transformed financial literacy, albeit requiring individuals to critically evaluate the reliability of information.
Deep dives
The Ease of Home Buying in the 1980s
Home buying in the 1980s was perceived as significantly easier compared to today, with the median home price in 1980 being around $47,200. This starkly contrasts with today's median price of approximately $412,300, highlighting the drastic increase in housing costs over four decades. The discussion also touches on the simplicity of life in the past, implying that the financial burdens of previous generations seemed much lighter. While there are complaints about current high prices, it is emphasized that many luxuries and conveniences we enjoy today were unavailable in the past.
Technological Advancements and Financial Literacy
Today's access to information through the internet is unparalleled compared to previous generations. Individuals can now easily find resources about financial literacy and investment strategies online, allowing them to navigate personal finances more effectively. In contrast, older generations relied on libraries and encyclopedias for knowledge, which made acquiring financial insight a more challenging task. This abundance of accessible information creates both opportunities and challenges as individuals must discern which sources are trustworthy amid the overwhelming volume available.
Rising Costs of Education and Homeownership
The conversation highlights the soaring costs of education and the implications for prospective students today. In 1980, the average annual college tuition was around $10,231, which has ballooned to approximately $28,775 in contemporary times. Similarly, the discussion of mortgage interest rates reveals how they have fluctuated, from an unprecedented 18% in the 1980s to around 6% today, contributing to the increased financial strain on home buyers. The comparison of college and home prices emphasizes the ongoing struggles young adults face in achieving financial stability.
Consumer Expectations and Market Realities
Contemporary consumers have raised expectations regarding home size, features, and quality, largely influenced by social media and television portrayals. The average home size has increased significantly since 1980, with home buyers today seeking aesthetic features that were not priorities in the past. This desire for larger and more luxurious homes can lead to feelings of entitlement among young adults, who may believe they deserve to own such properties despite financial realities. It is reiterated that navigating these expectations requires careful financial planning and an understanding of one's personal financial situation, rather than succumbing to societal pressures.
We all love the ‘80s (minus the shoulder pads and neon). But were ‘80s babies better off financially? Find out how your favorite decade stacks up against today when it comes to money.
Ramsey Solutions is a paid, non-client promoter of SmartVestor Pros.
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Instructions: Brew 1 shot of espresso. Add ice, bourbon and pumpkin butter to a cocktail shaker. Top with Irish cream and the shot of espresso. Shake for 30 seconds and pour into a coupe glass. Enjoy!