Travel
Californians Face One of the Nation’s Worst Consumer Debt Crises, Study Shows

If you know a lot of Californians with debt, data points to you being spot-on.
Consumer credit reporting company Experian ran a study shedding light on numerous aspects of personal debt among Americans. For the purposes of their analysis, consumer debt included secured and unsecured debt, such as credit cards, vehicle loans, and mortgages.
The following states are home to residents who hold the most amount of consumer debt as of 2023.
Disclaimer: Since mortgages are included in these numbers and homes are often an appreciating asset, not all of these residents hold debt that many financial experts would classify as bad. In fact, Experian notes that approximately two-thirds of all consumer debt Americans hold is from a mortgage.
Table of Contents
1: Colorado


The average Coloradan has $154,481 in consumer debt, which is a 2.6% increase from 2022.
Coloradans fall in the “good” range for their FICO credit score, with an 731 average score.
According to U.S. World & News Report, Colorado is the eighth-worst state for affordability. Housing is particularly a battle for residents, with it ranking as the fifth-most expensive state.
2: Washington


Washingtonians don’t look much better on the debt front than Coloradans, with $150,462 in average debt as of 2023. That’s a 2.3% increase in debt from 2022.
U.S. News ranks Washington as the second-best state in its “Best States Overall” category.
However, affordability in the Evergreen State is rough, ranking 46th in the nation.
3: California


Between expensive places to live, like Beverly Hills and Silicon Valley, some people might be surprised that Californians don’t rank as having the highest amount of average consumer debt.
Nevertheless, many people likely lose sleep over the $148,428 of debt the average California resident has.
California is the worst-ranking state for affordability, according to U.S. News. So, it’s easy to see how some residents might have to turn to their credit cards to help them get by.
4: Hawaii


$147,103 is the total amount of consumer debt the average Hawaiian has. That equates to a 1% increase from 2022.
While 1% may not sound like a lot, imagine what it amounts to if residents increase their consumer debt by 1% year after year.
Hawaii falls right after California on the affordability front, being the second-worst state to get the most money out of your income.
5: Utah


Utah’s $138,485 in average consumer debt is a head-turner. What’s equally troubling for debt-holding residents is that there was a +2.6% change in debt balances between 2022 and 2023.
Unlike the previous four states, Utah isn’t overly expensive; it ranks 28th in the country for affordability.
Given that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is so popular in Utah and Mormons must pay 10% of their income to the church, perhaps Utahn Mormons would have relatively less debt if they didn’t pay a tithing.
6: Maryland


Maryland residents had relatively slower debt growth between 2022 and 2023, with a 0.4% increase. Nevertheless, Marylanders’ $131,948 in debt is still high compared to most of the nation.
According to Forbes, the total average cost of living in Maryland is $48,235.
That leaves Marylanders with an average of $21,515 in disposable income, which they could put towards paying down their debt.
7: Idaho


Idaho residents hold an average of $120,766 in debt. The troubling part?
That’s a 3.2% increase from 2022, where they “only” held $116,988 in debt.
U.S. News ranks Idaho as the third-best state in its “Best States Overall” category. It also ranks in the middle of the road for affordability.
However, Redfin reported that in February 2024, the cost of a home had increased by 6.9% compared to the year prior, which can help explain why some residents have high debt.
8: Massachusetts


Residents from the states on this list might not see a lot of reason to celebrate.
But here’s one for Massachusetts residents: The debt change in Massachusetts between 2022 and 2023 was only +0.1%, which amounted to a $111 increase.
That’s far under the rate of inflation.
The average Bay Stater has $127,277 in consumer debt and a 732 FICO credit score.
9: Virginia


Virginia residents reading this might be able to relate to their state’s $128,386 average consumer debt.
It’s little wonder that residents in the Mother of States have relatively high debt, given that Virginia ranks 39th in the country for affordability.
Nevertheless, there’s a reason why people love living there. Virginia ranks as the 13th-best state overall, according to U.S. News.
10: Oregon


Oregon’s ninth-place average consumer debt ranking with Experian is on par with U.S. News ranking it as the tenth-worst state for affordability.
Oregonians have an average of $123,090 in consumer debt.
As Experian points out, inflation often plays a role in debt increases, such as Oregon’s 1.7% debt increase between 2022 and 2023.
11: Alaska


Given its remote location, which can lead to high food and fuel prices, it’s easy to see why some Alaskans rack up debt to survive.
Plus, housing is extremely expensive there.
The average Alaskan has $117,409 in consumer debt. That’s a 1.6% increase from 2022.
12: Arizona


Arizona’s consumer debt trajectory is troubling. The average debt a resident had in 2022 was $111,531. In 2023, it was $115,963, representing a 4% increase in the average amount of debt residents carry.
Interestingly, WalletHub determined through a study that four of Arizona’s cities ranked among the nine metros that have the least financially stressed residents.
So, perhaps many Arizonans’ debt is in the form of equity-building debt, like mortgages.
13: Connecticut


Connecticut residents carry an average of $109,519 in personal consumer debt.
That’s a relatively better 0.5% increase from 2022.
Not only do Connecticuters have relatively high amounts of debt, but they also rank in 49th place in the nation for taxpayer debt. Ouch.
14: Nevada


Nevadans have $116,440 in consumer debt as of 2023, and many people are probably feeling the pinch. Between 2022 and 2023, Nevada residents experienced a 3.1% increase in total debt.
According to Blue Water Credit, the debt-to-income ratio among Nevada residents is out of balance.
The Urban Institute even found that 47% of residents had one or more debts that went to collections.
15: Wyoming


Wyoming squeezes into last place on this list, with residents having an average debt of $108,846.
Luckily for residents, this is a 0.3% decline from 2022.
However, $108,846 sounds like a lot of consumer debt compared to other states. West Virginians have the lowest average debt in the nation, at $64,320.
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Best and Worst States to Retire in 2025


Are you hoping to settle down in a cheaper state with a better quality of life during retirement? These are the states to consider and, equally important, those you’re better off avoiding.
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Californians Face One of the Nation’s Worst Consumer Debt Crises, Study Shows

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Travel
14 Triggers Driving Floridians Out of the Sunshine State

I was a Florida transplant from New York, and now I’m a former Florida resident. While my departure from the Sunshine State had little to do with Florida itself, my time there gave me firsthand experience of why people chose to leave.
Here are some of the top reasons Florida residents are saying goodbye to the Sunshine State.
Table of Contents
High Cost of Living
While Florida has no state income tax, that doesn’t mean it’s cheap to live there. Housing costs have soared in recent years.
According to Zillow, the average home value in Florida is just shy of $390,000—well above the national average of approximately $357,000.
Rent isn’t much better. Combine that with rising property taxes, insurance rates, and everyday expenses, and the cost of living in Florida can feel overwhelming.
It’s no wonder many Floridians are finding it cheaper to live in other states.
Heat and Humidity
Florida is hot—and I’m not just talking about the real estate market. For many, the constant heat and humidity can feel overwhelming.
Summers often see temperatures climbing into the 90s with humidity levels that make it feel like you’re breathing in water.
It’s not just uncomfortable; it’s exhausting to some Floridians.
The sticky weather can also make everyday life more challenging.
Take, for instance, skyrocketing air conditioning bills. Some folks understandably miss the crisp air and changing seasons that other states offer.
Hurricanes and Extreme Weather
Living in Florida means dealing with hurricanes—and lots of them.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Sunshine State experiences more hurricanes than any other state in America.
Between the preparation, evacuations, and damages, hurricane season can feel like a never-ending headache.
Even if you dodge a direct hit, the constant threat of extreme weather can be stressful.
Add in flooding, storm surges, and power outages, and some residents decide it’s just not worth the risk.
Homeowners Insurance Woes
Speaking of costs, homeowners’ insurance in Florida is through the roof. It’s easy to see why, given the Sunshine State’s high rate of hurricanes and other natural disasters.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, Florida’s average annual premium is nearly three times the national average.
Some companies are even pulling out of the state altogether, leaving homeowners scrambling to find coverage.
For many, the stress and expense of insuring their property are big reasons to leave Florida.
Traffic and Overcrowding
Florida’s population boom has led to packed highways and crowded cities. Metro areas like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando are experiencing severe traffic problems.
According to INRIX, Miami ranks as one of the most congested cities in the country.
The overcrowding doesn’t stop at the roads. Beaches, parks, and attractions are often jam-packed.
For some Florida residents, what used to feel like a paradise now feels like chaos.
Rising Sea Levels
Climate change isn’t just a future problem for Florida—it’s happening now. Rising sea levels are putting coastal areas at risk.
According to the Florida Climate Center, sea levels along Florida’s coast have risen about 8 inches since 1950.
This issue has led to increased flooding, even on sunny days.
Some Florida residents are worried about the long-term effects on their homes and communities, leading them to seek higher ground elsewhere.
Lack of Public Transportation
If you don’t have a car in Florida, getting around can be tough.
Public transportation options are limited compared to other states. Cities like Miami and Tampa have some systems in place, but they’re not nearly as extensive or reliable as those in places like New York or Chicago.
This car dependency isn’t just inconvenient; it’s expensive. Gas, insurance, and maintenance costs add up.
For those used to more walkable cities, Florida’s transportation challenges can be frustrating enough to move away.
Bugs, Bugs, and More Bugs
If you’re not a fan of creepy crawlies, Florida is surely a place you want to leave.
Mosquitoes, palmetto bugs (a fancy term for giant cockroaches), and fire ants are just some of the pests residents have to deal with.
The warm, humid climate makes Florida an ideal breeding ground for bugs.
While pest control services help, the sheer number of insects can be a daily nuisance for many.
Limited Job Opportunities
While Florida has a booming tourism industry, it’s not always the best place for career growth. Many jobs are in lower-paying fields like hospitality and retail.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida’s average annual wage is below the national average.
Professionals in tech, finance, and other high-paying industries often find better opportunities in states like California, New York, or Texas.
Political Climate
Florida’s political scene has become a hot topic in recent years.
Some Floridians feel the state’s policies and leadership don’t align with their personal beliefs. From debates over education to environmental policies, the political divide is growing.
For some Florida residents, the political climate is a significant factor in deciding to leave. They’re seeking places where they feel their values are better represented.
Healthcare Challenges
Florida’s healthcare system isn’t winning any awards. According to the Commonwealth Fund, the state ranks 41st in the nation for healthcare access and affordability.
Many residents struggle to find quality care close to home.
For retirees who moved to Florida for its reputation as a retirement haven, these challenges can be especially disappointing.
Some end up deciding to move to states with better healthcare options.
Tourism Overload
Living in a tourist hotspot like Florida isn’t always as fun as it sounds.
Millions of visitors flock to the state each year, especially during peak seasons. This influx can make everyday activities like grocery shopping or driving a hassle.
For locals, dealing with the constant crowds and noise can get old fast.
Wildlife Encounters
Florida’s natural beauty comes with some “wild” neighbors. Alligators, snakes, and invasive species like pythons are common in many areas.
While these creatures are fascinating, they can also be dangerous.
For some Florida residents, the risk of running into a gator on their morning walk or finding a snake in their yard is a little too close to nature for comfort.
Moving to a less wildlife-heavy area feels like a safer choice.
Culture Shock
Florida’s unique blend of cultures isn’t for everyone. While some people love the diversity, others find it hard to adjust.
The state’s laid-back lifestyle, mix of urban and rural areas, and transient population can make it difficult to feel rooted.
For those who grew up in other parts of the country, Florida can feel like a world away from what they’re used to.
Some people miss the traditions, food, and community of their home states, prompting them to head back.
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6 Surprising Facts About Florida That Non-Locals Can’t Believe


Think you know Florida? These are some truths about Florida that might surprise you. Unless you’re a Floridian, of course.
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Travel
Wave Goodbye: 20 Beach Cities Sinking Fast, One in Florida

Regardless of where you stand on what’s causing global sea levels to rise, it’s undeniable that our coastlines are getting smaller.
A study using data from the European Commission suggests that by 2100, we could lose nearly half of the world’s sandy beaches to rising sea levels.
That said, not all coastlines are shrinking at the same rate.
Unfortunately for Americans, two beloved U.S. beach spots are among the top 20 beachside cities in the world that will likely shrink the most by 2100, one of which is in Florida.
Table of Contents
Measuring Shrinking Coasts


Hawaiian Islands determined the world’s tourist beaches that will lose the most sandy area by using the European Commission’s data, which estimates global shoreline changes that will happen by 2100.
To narrow down their data to tourist beaches, Hawaiian Islands selected the top ten beaches in each country with the most reviews. They then calculated the average decrease or increase of all the beaches, arriving at the following rankings.
Although Hawaiian Islands calculated their data using the number of meters of shoreline shrinkage by 2100, we converted them to the nearest feet (ft).
Flip through the slideshow below to see which Florida beach city is on this list.
Rising Tides


According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, global sea levels have been increasing over the past 100 years.
What troubles many scientists is the fact that the rate of rising sea levels has increased in recent years.
As of right now, sea levels are rising at a rate of approximately one-eighth of an inch each year.
A warmer environment is the leading cause of increased sea levels. Researchers state that the two primary causes of this include the water that’s already in the ocean expanding (since water expands as it gets warmer) and the melting of land-based ice.
Threat of Higher Sea Levels


Numerous issues are already stemming from higher sea levels, and experts worry about the future of coastal towns and cities. Rising sea levels threaten coastal infrastructure, subways, oil and gas wells, and landfills, to name a few.
Furthermore, “nuisance flooding” is common in areas that are already feeling the negative effects of increased sea levels. This type of flooding occurs during high tide.
While nuisance flooding isn’t typically dangerous for people living along the coast, it can be incredibly disruptive and expensive to maintain, repair, or move infrastructure that ultra-high tides reach.
Another way that higher sea levels can negatively impact coastal areas is by making an area ripe for more damaging storm surges.
In this case, storm surge water reaches further inland than it did in the past.
Expedited Rising


In some cases, populations along the coast have inadvertently sped up the process of the sea level rising faster than average in their local area.
Some of the human-driven things that can cause sea levels to increase at an expedited rate include:
- Groundwater pumping
- Oil extraction
- Heavy buildings
Such practices cause soil compaction and erosion, literally sinking cities into the earth.
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Travel
10 Surefire Clues Someone Grew Up in Virginia

Whether you’re strolling down the cobblestone streets of Alexandria or hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, there’s no denying that Virginians have their own unique way of doing things.
If you’ve ever wondered how to spot someone from the Old Dominion State, here are ten telltale signs to look for.
Table of Contents
They Have Strong Opinions About Barbecue
Virginians take their barbecue seriously, and they’re not afraid to let you know it.
While they might not engage in heated debates like their neighbors in North Carolina or Tennessee, they’ll still proudly defend the slow-smoked pork and tangy vinegar-based sauces found in their state.
The “Virginia style” might not be as famous, but locals swear it’s worth trying.
You’re also likely to hear them talk about local barbecue joints with reverence. They’ll mention places like Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que in Williamsburg or County Grill & Smokehouse in Hampton as if they’re sacred.
For a Virginian, barbecue isn’t just food—it’s a way of life.
They’re Passionate About College Sports—Especially UVA and Virginia Tech
College sports are a big deal in Virginia, and the rivalry between the University of Virginia (UVA) and Virginia Tech is legendary.
UVA fans proudly wear their orange and blue, while Hokies sport maroon and orange with equal fervor.
On game days, you’ll find Virginians glued to their TVs or tailgating outside the stadiums. They’ll talk passionately about past games, star players, and memorable plays.
Just don’t bring up any losses unless you’re ready for a lengthy discussion.
They Call It “The Commonwealth”
While most states refer to themselves as just that, states, Virginians often call their home “The Commonwealth.”
This historical term is a source of pride, emphasizing the state’s commitment to the common good of its citizens.
If you’re in a conversation and someone refers to “the Commonwealth” without further explanation, you’re probably talking to a Virginian.
It’s one of those subtle but unmistakable signs that they’re from the Old Dominion.
They’re Loyal to Virginia Peanuts
Virginia peanuts aren’t your average snack. Known for their extra-large size and crunchy texture, these nuts are a point of pride for the state.
If someone offers you a tin of Virginia peanuts as a gift, you can bet they’re from the Commonwealth.
Virginians also love to remind people that their peanuts are grown in the sandy soils of southeastern Virginia, particularly around Suffolk.
They’ll tell you that their peanuts are the best for roasting and snacking, and they’re not wrong—Virginia peanuts have earned their reputation as some of the finest in the world.
They Love Saying “Bless Your Heart”
Virginians have mastered the art of Southern politeness, and “Bless your heart” is a phrase you’ll hear often.
Depending on the context, it can be a genuine expression of sympathy or a not-so-subtle way of calling someone out.
You’ll know you’ve met a true Virginian if they say it with just the right tone and timing.
It’s a versatile phrase that’s as much a part of their vocabulary as “y’all.”
They’re Obsessed With History
Virginia is steeped in history, and its residents are proud of it.
From Colonial Williamsburg to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the state is home to some of the most important historical sites in the country.
Virginians love to talk about their state’s role in the founding of America. They’ll eagerly share stories about Jamestown, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War.
If someone can’t stop talking about historical landmarks, they’re likely a Virginian.
They Have a Love-Hate Relationship With I-95
Ask any Virginian about I-95, and you’ll get an earful.
This major interstate runs through the heart of the state and is notorious for its traffic jams, especially near Richmond and Northern Virginia.
Virginians have a lot to say about the best times to travel, the worst bottlenecks, and the endless construction projects.
It’s a shared experience that unites residents in their frustration and serves as a conversation starter for anyone familiar with the region.
They Swear by Old Bay Seasoning
Old Bay isn’t just a seasoning in Virginia; it’s practically a religion.
Whether it’s sprinkled on seafood, French fries, or even popcorn, this blend of spices is a staple in many Virginian kitchens.
If someone’s eyes light up at the mention of Old Bay, chances are they’re from Virginia.
They’ll probably tell you it’s the secret ingredient to making any dish better.
They’re Wine Enthusiasts
Virginia’s wine scene has been gaining recognition in recent years, and locals are justifiably proud of their vineyards. With over 300 wineries across the state, there’s no shortage of options for wine lovers.
Virginians will eagerly recommend their favorite wineries, like Barboursville Vineyards or King Family Vineyards.
They’re especially fond of Virginia’s signature grape, Viognier, and they’ll encourage you to give it a try.
They Brag About All Four Seasons
One thing Virginians love to mention is how their state experiences all four seasons.
From colorful fall foliage in the Shenandoah Valley to sunny summers at Virginia Beach, they’ll tell you their state has it all.
They might even claim that Virginia’s seasons are “just right”—not too hot, not too cold.
While that might be up for debate, there’s no denying that Virginians take pride in their state’s natural beauty year-round.
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PSA: Read this where you won’t embarrass yourself laughing. Whether you’re a Virginia local or just passing through, these town names are sure to make you chuckle when you see them.
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