In a survey conducted by the WNC Health Network respondents reported that they did not have cash on hand to cover a $400 emergency expense. 23% of respondents from Cherokee county, 28% from Clay county, 20% from Graham County, and 27% from Macon county reported that they did not have the money for an unexpected $400 emergency expense.

Source: https://www.nchfa.com/news/policy-matters-blog/new-survey-western-north-carolina-illuminates-region%E2%80%99s-persistent-housing-stability-affordability-challenges

31% of respondents from Cherokee county, 30% from Clay county, 27% from Graham county , and 32% from Macon county reported that they were “Always, Usually, or Sometimes” worried about paying their rent or mortgage in the last year.

Source:

https://www.nchfa.com/news/policy-matters-blog/new-survey-western-north-carolina-illuminates-region%E2%80%99s-persistent-housing-stability-affordability-challenges

We are all feeling the squeeze at the supermarket. According to consumer affairs North Carolina experienced a 3.5% rise in grocery prices over the last year. Supply chain issues, higher costs for transportation, limited store options, tariffs, and economic inequality are all to blame. If you have to spend a larger portion of your income on your groceries it is challenging to get ahead.

Source:

https://www.consumeraffairs.com/finance/cost-of-groceries-by-state.html