Seen as a sign of success and financial comfort, a six-figure salary has long been an important milestone for American workers.
$100,000 isn’t quite what it used to be, especially as rampant inflation continues to sap the purchasing power of money and push the cost of living higher. In fact, 51% of people who earn more than $100,000 reported living paycheck to paycheck in December 2022 – 9 percentage points higher than a year earlier – according to a recent survey from PYMNTS and LendingClub. To see how much $100,000 is actually worth in different parts of the country, SmartAsset compared the after-tax income in 76 of the largest U.S. cities and then adjusted those figures for the cost of living in each place. For more information on our data or how we compiled our findings, read the Data and Methodology section below. Key Findings
1. Memphis, TN A person earning $100,000 per year in Memphis takes home $74,515 after federal and local taxes (the state of Tennessee doesn’t tax earned income). Considering the city has a cost of living that’s almost 14% lower than the national average, those after-tax earnings are actually worth $86,444 when adjusting for the cost of living. 2. El Paso, TX A $100,000 salary in El Paso is worth $84,966 after subtracting taxes and adjusting for the local cost of living. A person who makes $100,000 a year in this West Texas city of over 678,000 residents takes home $74,515 after taxes. El Paso’s cost of living is just 87.7% of the national average. 3. Oklahoma City, OK Someone making $100,000 in Oklahoma City will take home $70,302 after taxes. But thanks to the lowest cost of living in our study, those after-tax earnings are worth considerably more: $84,498. 4. Corpus Christi, TX A $100,000 annual salary is worth $83,443 in Corpus Christi after deducting taxes and adjusting for the local cost of living. Located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, Corpus Christi’s cost of living is 10.7% lower than the national average. 5. Lubbock, TX A person who earns $100,000 per year in Lubbock can expect to take home $74,515 after taxes are deducted from their paychecks. Since the cost of living in Lubbock is just 89.4% of the national average, that person’s take-home pay is actually worth $83,350 after adjusting for the cost of living. 6. Houston, TX Like the other Texas cities in the top 10, a $100,000 salary in Houston is reduced to $74,515 after taxes. Those earnings, however, are worth $81,350 when adjusting for Houston’s cost of living, which is 91.8% of the national average. 7 (tie). San Antonio, Fort Worth and Arlington, TX A $100,000 salary is worth the same amount of money in three Texas cities: San Antonio, Fort Worth and Arlington. Thanks to identical tax treatment and no state income tax, a person earning $100,000 takes home $74,515 in each city. That money is worth $80,124 when you adjust for the cost of living in all three cities, which is 7% lower than the national average. 10. St. Louis, MO St. Louis rounds out the top 10. While taxes reduce a $100,000 salary to $69,531, the city’s low cost of living (87% of the national average) makes those after-tax dollars go even further. As a result, a $100,000 salary in St. Louis is worth $79,921 after subtracting taxes and adjusting for the cost of living.
Tax Tips for Six-Figure Earners
Source: smartasset Its nickname, Gateway to New York, is just as accurate not only in terms of its locations but also its promise of recreation all year round. It resides within the west of the Hudson River and was once notable for being a stop for immigrants hoping to achieve the American Dream by passing through Ellis Island. Created in 1840, this county in the North Jersey region got its name after Henry Hudson, who was a sea explorer in the 1600s. So, it's safe to say that this county shines more because of its stunning waterfront vistas and bayside attractions. I am here to tell you that this is not all there is to Hudson County, and I'm ready to prove this. Because in this article, I'll be sharing some of the county's best well-kept secrets and more! Here are the 15 best things to do in Hudson County, New Jersey, for your worthwhile trip ahead. Bask in the Scenic Riverfront Spot at the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway Nothing quite takes you for a front-seat view of the Hudson River than the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. This linear pathway passes through 9 communities and 2 counties, one of which is Hudson County. At 18 miles, this route was a relaxing destination for me. Helping me remain comfortable and stress-free was the stunning skyline of Manhattan across the river. I also got impressive photos of the views all around during my long walk there. What made the spot a memorable one for me was its convenient location to many restaurants and shops nearby. I reached the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway in Hoboken via Sinatra Drive. But there are multiple access points to this walkway from various neighborhoods, including Bayonne and Jersey City.
Play with Friends and Loved Ones at Bowl-Rite Lanes In Union City, Bowl-Rite Lanes is the ultimate family destination for many visitors and residents within Hudson County. Opened in 1965, this bowling alley offers a ten-pin 24-lane center with a variety of amenities on the side. What I loved most about this entertainment facility was its calm and friendly atmosphere. It also brought about a nostalgic touch to my experience with its arcade section and snack counter. Come by with your friends for an ideal hangout session. You can head over to Summit Avenue from 8th Street to reach Bowl-Rite Lanes. Enjoy the Outdoors with a Visit to Liberty State Park For an all-around adventure of Hudson County's natural areas, I highly recommend coming by Liberty State Park if you've got the time. Dramatic and inclusive, this park is just what you might expect from Jersey City's waterfront oasis. It sits opposite Ellis Island and Liberty Island and is the only spot within the county that provides seafaring access to the former island. Opened in 1976, this park spans over 1,000 acres. It is home to the Liberty Science Center, which I enjoyed exploring. Its exhibits and galleries made me rediscover my love for science. Also within the park are the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial and the Richard J. Sullivan Natural Area; both of which are a delight for me to visit. Other activities that this state park promotes include boat and kayak launching, hiking, fishing, and even picnicking. Liberty State Park is on Audrey Zapp Drive. Take Photos of the Picturesque Views from the Castle Point Lookout Open throughout the year, the Castle Point Lookout is one scenic attraction that I will never get tired of recommending. This Hoboken spot is the highest point of the city at an elevation of 100 feet. Complete with a simplistic observation deck and multiple trails, this point has been a great source of stress relief for me. It features not only the Manhattan skyline up ahead but also the waterfront vistas of Hoboken. I liked the touch of history within the site through the presence of a historical cannon artifact that has been the trademark of the Castle Point Lookout. This point is a feature of Stevens Institute of Technology campus. And you can get to this spot on Frank Sinatra Drive. Weehawken's Hamilton Park offers a blend of natural beauty and history within an unassuming setting. This park sits next to the historic dueling grounds of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. To commemorate this historic moment in time, the park features the original rock where Hamilton's head rested after he got shot. Though the park is mostly abundant with only benches, the picturesque expanse of the lawn makes up for it. I loved the collection of plaques and monuments lining up the park—certainly added to the historic appeal of the spot. The floral gardens were also a lovely feature, as were the cliffs and the Manhattan skyline in the distance. Hamilton Park sits along Boulevard East should you care for a visit. Art comes together in various forms at Mana Contemporary. This Jersey City attraction is a cultural arts center featuring both visual and performing arts. It resides in what was once a tobacco warehouse back in the day. Now, the walls are vibrant with the display of contemporary art and the sounds of top-notch shows. I loved exploring the halls and exhibition spaces of the gallery because of its warm surroundings and creative inspiration. I got to witness art-making sessions for myself, and I wasn't disappointed at all. So, come by if you need a sprinkle of artistic inspiration. Mana Contemporary is accessible along Newark Avenue. Learn More about Astronomy at Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium Whether you're a fan of space and astronomy or not, Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium is a must-visit. This planetarium takes pride in being the biggest of its kind in the whole country. A part of Liberty Science Center's facilities, this planetarium offers a vibrant and informative approach to your trip across the planets and all over the galaxy. One of the shows I got to watch was the Beyoncé Laser Show, which felt like a concert. While jamming to the iconic diva's songs, I was awestruck by the array of lasers and lights. There are also space talks and telescope shows at different showtimes, so better check with the planetarium ahead for any of your planned visits. Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium—and its greatness—sits along Jersey City Boulevard in Jersey City. Start a Mural-Spotting Journey along Jersey City Jersey City's public art scene is nothing short of impressive. And let me tell you, I had the time of my life spotting murals all over this wondrous city. With about 200 murals created by over 100 artists, there's always an art piece that resonates with everyone. One of the murals that resonated with me is Shauquethqueat's Eutrochium, featuring the very same flower it's named after blooming beautifully against a dark building on Cottage Street. Another one of my favorites is the Beloved Mural by Ben Keller on 12th Street. This 2021 masterpiece is a tribute to Michelangelo's famous Greek-inspired art culture. There are other murals and graffiti works for you, so don't worry! I hope you find one that inspires you. Browse through the Archives Section at the Hoboken Historical Museum History and heritage connect at the local Hoboken Historical Museum. This museum has the most reliable collection for everything related to Hoboken's past. From artifacts and relics to photographs and documents, the interesting message of history is abundant. The Sinatra tributes were one of my favorites. The staff was kind and informative on my visit too, which added to my wonderful experience there. It was to my utter delight that its upper gallery offers rotating exhibits, so the next time I'm due for a visit, I know I'll be in for a pleasant surprise.The Hoboken Historical Museum sits along Hudson Street in Hoboken. Go on a Hiking Spree along Laurel Hill Park Hudson County's Meadowlands is the highlight of Laurel Hill Park. Located along Laurel Hill Road, this large expanse of open grassy vegetation shines with historical significance. In fact, this park got its nickname "Snake Hill" after its large feature of igneous rock resulting from a volcanic eruption. Though you can no longer see this rock as a whole, there is bedrock forming the southern section of the park that serves as its remains. I had a grand time making use of the park's sports facilities, including soccer fields and a cricket field. But perhaps my favorite part of this park is its collection of hiking trails, where I got to enjoy nature at its original beauty. Laurel Hill Park is within the quaint town of Secaucus. Explore the Landscaped Gardens at Stephen R. Gregg Park Hudson County has a wide array of parks that are worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. One of these is Stephen R. Gregg Park. This 100-acre passive and active park offers the best of waterfront sceneries within the county. Established in 1916, some of its eye-catching features are its park bridges and walkways. It also has a multitude of sports amenities that I particularly enjoyed during my visit. But nothing can top the ornamental gardens. The Cherie LaPelusa Gardens are the centerpiece of the park, and I had a fun time walking through the colorful spots of flowers and blossoms native to the community. Stephen R. Gregg Park is in the city of Bayonne, specifically along John F. Kennedy Boulevard. Go on a Car Match with Your Group at RPM Raceway It's time for a bit of indoor fun! RPM Raceway in Jersey City is one of Hudson County's indoor entertainment facilities that I will continue to recommend time and time again. Its state-of-the-art facility and equipment, including its dizzying ramps, are part of the reason why I loved this center. Another reason is the thrill it gave me as I went down to its cars and raced with other riders down the track. The facility also has an arcade section and a bowling alley. If you've got time on your schedule for an adventure within closed doors, this spot is for you. RPM Raceway is on Caven Point Road. Spot Waterfowl and Other Birds at Mill Creek Marsh Secaucus' Mill Creek Marsh has been a community staple since its establishment in 1996. At 209 acres, this marsh took me on a magical outdoor experience full of birdwatching opportunities. The trails remain well-paved, which I consider a win. I was also glad the place was as tranquil as I expected, and I got to relax without worrying about a huge crowd. Mill Creek Marsh is also most notable for its diversity in open-water habitats, including marshlands and lowland shrubs. So, experience the beauty of nature for yourself by stopping by. You can reach this nature preserve on Mill Creek Marsh Trail. The Hoboken Fire Department Museum houses a variety of memorabilia and fire gear used in Hoboken's battle against fires across history.
Informative and fun, this center boasts all-around entertainment for both adults and kids. The kids can have the time of their life riding the museum's accompanying fire engine. As for the adults, I highly recommend looking for the Marty Sinatra photo featuring Frank who was at the peak of his career at the time. There's much to see and discover within the walls of this museum, so keep your eyes peeled! Located along Bloomfield Street, the Hoboken Fire Department Museum is an interesting stop worth checking out. Final Thoughts Part of what makes Hudson County a county worth exploring is its diversity of indoor and outdoor attractions. From museums and tranquil parks to art galleries and landmarks, I am so glad to have visited this county and its treasures. I think I might even visit the next time I'm in New Jersey if the opportunity allows. Did you enjoy the list above of the best things to do in Hudson County, New Jersey? Source: Travel Lens Some of the most charming small towns in New Jersey are found in rural corners of the state, surrounded by farmland and beautiful scenery. Take a trip to any of these for a beautiful day in the Garden State! 2. Cranbury Cranbury is a little town in rural Middlesex County. It's around the corner from the spot where martians landed in the 1930s! You'll find a cute pizza place and some tasty homemade ice cream downtown, and it's worth driving around to get a break from the strip malls and developments of the larger nearby towns. 5. Shamong Shamong is a rural town in Burlington County that's home to dozens of farms, both small and large,and a beautiful vineyard at Valenzano Winery. There are also plenty of hiking trails and access to Wharton State Forest from dozens of trailheads in the area. This tiny town is also home to one of the best bars in New Jersey - the Pic-A-Lilli on Route 206 serves up delicious wings. A little farther down the road, Kingfish BBQ's smokers run all weekend long, serving up tasty ribs, chicken, brisket, and more.
Source: Only in your state MONTEREY, CA - MAY 22: Black cormorants and sea lions are seen on Bird Rock at the scenic road 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula in California, United States on May 22, 2023. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)ANADOLU AGENCY VIA GETTY IMAGES The public is gradually utilizing ChatGPT for more real-world purposes, including travel planning. There are several plugins currently available to Plus users that can make it easier to research a destination. It can also find travel deals with potentially faster and more precise insights than travel agents. Expedia The Expedia plugin integrates seamlessly with the travel booking site’s iOS app to recommend destinations, flights and hotels to curious travelers. Currently, this plugin doesn’t find or book travel options as the platform is in beta mode, but it’s an excellent real-time research tool. Kayak If you love the Kayak travel comparison tool, the plugin provides conversational search results that can result in personalized recommendations. This tool meshes your search preferences with previous travel data to dynamically answer your questions. OpenTable Make restaurant reservations around the world through OpenTable. Travelers can input their destination, party size and dining preferences to receive top recommendations. Diners can continue the conversation to compare restaurants for different situations and finally make a reservation. In addition to the restaurant name, the search suggestions provide a brief description of why the establishment makes the list for date nights, get-togethers, birthday parties or other special occasions. Weather Report Receive an interactive weather forecast for your current location or another travel destination. Requesting the present-day forecast or an extended-day forecast is possible. The report generates within seconds without the fluff and advertisements of a typical weather site. World News As the ChatGPT real-time processing capabilities improve, the World News plugin can compile the latest headlines relevant to your interests. The curated headlines can be sourced from around the world with minimal effort. Note that some headlines may also be in a foreign language. This tool is an easy way to see what’s happening at a specific destination or within a region by pulling articles from multiple sources. Speak Travelers can use Speak to translate phrases and individual words into a different language. Unlike many translation tools, it explains why you might use a particular expression to help you speak like a local. This tool can help you use the proper conjugation. It can also help you comprehend formal or informal phrases that may not translate easily into English for novice speakers. Roam Around This suggestion is more like a bonus, as you don’t need a ChatGPT Plus subscription to start using Roam Around. Instead, the AI-powered website is available for free to the public and plans a basic travel itinerary within seconds. Enter your destination into the query box and receive suggestions for a 5-day trip. Next, you can fine-tune the itinerary by entering specific events, interests or dining desires into the chatbox. Summary Most ChatGPT plugins are still in beta mode and are available on a limited basis, starting with paid subscribers ($20/month), as developers can improve their capabilities for broader use. But some platforms are integrating plugins into their apps and websites to provide a conversational search experience that can make trip planning more enjoyable and efficient. The natural beauty of New Jersey often gets overlooked by outsiders. We’re seen as a mass of freeways and factories, but that’s far from the case. Residents know the truth – incredible landscapes can be found throughout the state. We have mountains, lakes, woodlands, waterfalls and so much more! Many of these spots are ideal for relaxation, as science shows that connecting with nature can significantly reduce stress. Here are some of our favorite places to enjoy nature in New Jersey: 11. Parvin State Park, Pittsgrove This southwestern state park is located on the edge of the New Jersey Pinelands. Enjoy both pine and swamp hardwood forests, along with scenic Parvin Lake. Lay back and immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife and greenery. Address: 701 Almond Road, Pittsgrove, New Jersey, 0831 13. Colonial Park, Somerset This 685-acre park includes scenic frontage on both the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal and the Millstone River. Recreation facilities, prize winning horticultural displays, and pristine natural areas are scattered amongst the spacious lawns and charming ponds! Address: 156 Mettlers Road, Somerset, New Jersey, 08873 14. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Worthington State Forest When you're standing atop a mountain looking out on the world, problems just seem smaller. This beautiful park is located in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and the address is on the PA side! Address: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, Pennsylvania, 18324 The following 12 New Jersey rivers truly stand out, whether for their size, popularity, location, or other special features. Read on to learn more about these outstanding Garden State waterways and enjoy the incredible photographs! 1.Hudson River The Hudson River lies on the eastern border of our state, between New York and New Jersey. The 315-mile river starts in the Adirondack Mountains and empties out into the Atlantic Ocean. The southernmost portion of the river is a tidal estuary, where salt and fresh water meet. 2. Delaware River The Delaware River, another one of the best rivers in New Jersey, runs along the state's western border through NY, NJ, PA, and DE. Beginning in the Catskills, the Delaware River runs over 300 miles to the Atlantic Ocean. 3. Passaic River The 80-mile Passaic River in Northern New Jersey, unfortunately has been known to flood. It runs through some of the most industrial areas in the state and nevertheless offers the spectacular Great Falls. 4. Navesink River The 8-mile-long Navesink River is actually an estuary, and a popular spot for boating, swimming, fishing, and crabbing. Additionally, the neighborhoods along the Navesink are some of the wealthiest in New Jersey.
Whether you’re into swimming, boating, fishing, or sightseeing, you can probably enjoy your hobby at one of these 12 amazing rivers in New Jersey!
It’s hard to feel financially stable when the cost of living continues to take a bigger bite out of your budget.
While salaries increased 5.1% between December 2021 and December 2022, wage growth couldn’t keep up with inflation, which averaged 8% in 2022. Ultimately, inflation has affected everything from the cost of housing to the price of eggs, making it increasingly difficult to live comfortably in America’s largest cities. With this in mind, SmartAsset set out to uncover the after-tax income now needed to live comfortably in the nation’s 25 largest metropolitan areas. To determine how much money is needed to live comfortably in the largest metro areas, we used the 50/30/20 rule to define a comfortable lifestyle. This rule is a budgeting strategy that allocates 50% of after-tax income to basic living expenses (needs), 30% to discretionary spending (wants) and 20% for savings or debt payments. “A budget is the bedrock of many people’s financial plans. And it’s especially essential to understand and track your spending when the cost of everyday items is rising,” says Susannah Snider, a certified financial planner and SmartAsset’s managing editor of financial education. “Being able to stick to a 50/30/20 budget means you have enough to fund short- and long-term goals while paying for essential living expenses.” Data and MethodologySmartAsset used the most recent MIT Living Wage Calculator data to gather the basic cost of living for an individual with no children in each metro area. The data covers the cost of living in each city as of 2022. The online tool calculates the cost of living by adding the average cost of housing, food, transportation, medical care and other expenses within each metro area. We assumed the MIT cost of living figure for each metro area would cover needs (i.e. 50% of one’s budget) and then calculated the total take-home pay that enables individuals to spend an additional 30% on wants and 20% on savings or debt payments. This is SmartAsset’s second study on how much money is needed to live comfortably in the 25 largest metro areas. You can read the 2022 edition here. Key Findings
The U.S. News & World Report released its 13th annual ranking of the best hotels for travelers this year. The rankings, published Tuesday, are based on three factors: the number of awards received from the travel industry, a hotel’s star rating, and guest reviews from the travel website Tripadvisor. More weight was given to recipients of “highly selective” awards, as well as those with more traveler reviews, according to the press release. That makes it harder for new hotels to break into the upper ranks of the annual list. The report ranks only “luxury” hotels and resorts, which U.S. News defines as those that consistently average from 4- to 5-star ratings, though it now includes select hotels with 3.5 stars too, the company said. To be considered, hotels must also have at least 20 rooms, according to the release. Best hotels in the U.S. These are the top ranked hotels in the U.S.:
Miami’s Acqualina Resort & Residences took the top spot in the United States for the first time. It has three pools, ocean views and an award-winning spa. U.S. News also published additional hotel rankings that can be searched by state or by city. For example, travelers can search for the best hotels in California, or explore hotel rankings in 46 different towns and locations there, such as La Jolla, Disneyland and Napa Valley. They can then filter hotels based on star ratings, price and amenities. Best hotels in Europe These are the top ranked hotels in Europe:
Last year’s No. 1 hotel, Le Bristol Paris, came in at No. 6 this year. Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam clinched the top spot in Europe for the first time. It comprises six canal-side mansions and houses a two-starred Michelin restaurant that specializes in vegetarian cuisine. Europe’s No. 2 hotel, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, overlooks Italy’s famous Lake Como. The U.S. News & World Ranking also ranks hotels in 39 European countries, from Albania to Wales. Similar to the U.S. rankings, visitors can core into these rankings by “popular regions,” such as Capri, Cinque Terre and Venice in Italy. Best hotels in the Caribbean These are the top ranked hotels in the Caribbean:
The No. 2 hotel, Antigua’s Jumby Bay Island, provides snorkeling expeditions and kayak tours for guests.
Other rankings The U.S. News & World Report also published new rankings for in Canada, Mexico and Bermuda. Separately, it also ranks all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, which were topped by Jumby Bay Island, Oetker Collection and Grand Velas Los Cabos, respectively. This article first appeared on CNBC Travel. Written by Audrey Wan The Jersey Shore is lovely! It’s a world-famous vacation destination, and each little town has something to offer visitors. It can be very crowded and expensive to visit in the middle of summer, when tourism peaks, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting to know these charming shore towns. Take a look at a few that are great to visit in the off-season. 1. Cape May Cape May is a year-round resort town. While it is busiest in the summertime, the area around Congress Hall and the historic district are popular with visitors even in the dead of winter. It's always a good time here - you can climb the lighthouse, visit the beach bunkers, and shop 'til you drop no matter when you come by. 2. Brigantine Brigantine is a quiet Atlantic County town. It's fun to visit in the off-season when the beach is empty. It's also open to horseback riding from October through April, so you might see a few four-legged friends! Close proximity to Atlantic City means there are always lodging and dining options close by. 3. Asbury Park Visit Asbury Park any time of year to enjoy festivals, concerts, and quality time on the sand. They take Local Summer seriously here, and you'll find that September is truly the best time to visit and have a whole lot of space to yourself. 4. Ocean City Ocean City is one of those towns that captures your heart when you're young - and then never lets go! Most of the boardwalk is closed during the off-season, but you can get Manco and Manco Pizza year round, and that's really all you ever need. 5. Long Beach Island LBI is an island full of residential homes, so you'll find plenty of year-round restaurants and shops here. With so much coastline, too, it's easy to find an empty spot on the beach and enjoy the cooler air. 6. Highlands Highlands is a bayshore town by the Navesink River. It's also home to one of the best secret beaches - Black Fish Cove at Rocky Point. You'll access this beach after hiking through Hartshorne Woods Park, one of the shore's best kept secrets. 7. Island Beach State Park Island Beach State Park is glorious on a warm winter day. This park is quiet and empty even in the middle of the busiest seasons, so if you visit in the off season, you'll practically have it to yourself. Source: "Only In Your State" |
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