Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Even a Princess Needs Rupees to Survive: The Cost of Comfort in the States

By the Goddess Hylia! A Nation in Need of Rupees!

Greetings subjects! Princess Zelda here reporting live from Hyrule… erm I mean the United States. It seems even in this land of 'dollars' and 'annual wages,' folks are finding it harder than defeating Ganon with a rusty ladle to live comfortably. A recent study has revealed that the median annual wage of just under $62,000 isn't enough to afford the basics in many states. Looks like even I'd have to think twice about buying that fancy new shield... or maybe just borrow Link's. He never uses it anyway!

50/30/20? More Like 100% Frustration!

Apparently some pointy eared eggheads at a place called SmartAsset have this idea of 'comfortable living' pegged to a 50/30/20 budget. Half your income for essentials (like rent and elixirs… I mean food) 30% for discretionary spending (bombchus and fairy fountains!) and 20% for debt and savings (like that time I accidentally maxed out my HyruleCard at Beedle's Shop). But honestly who can stick to that when you're facing down Lynels and trying to save the world? This reminds me of when Link tries to cook a simple meal... Always ends up with Dubious Food.

West Virginia: The New Hyrule?

Now according to these calculations West Virginia is the most affordable state requiring a salary of a mere $80,829 to live comfortably. A pittance! Okay maybe not. But compared to Hawaii where you need a whopping $124,467 it sounds like a bargain. Perhaps I should consider relocating the Hyrule Royal Family to West Virginia. We could trade Ganon for… uh… Mothman? I'll have to consult with Impa on this one.

Hawaii: Where Dreams (and Wallets) Go to Die

Hawaii and Massachusetts are apparently the toughest nuts to crack requiring over $120,000 a year. That's enough to make even a Goron weep! One wonders what they're spending all that money on... Perhaps an endless supply of coconuts and clam chowder? It sounds like the cost of living there is truly a trial.

Inflation: Worse Than a Moblin Horde!

Despite what these economists say about 'wage growth outpacing price inflation,' most folks still feel like they're being robbed by Bokoblins every time they go to the market. And with tariffs looming prices could skyrocket faster than a Cucco escaping Link's wrath. Looks like we all need to find a fairy fountain quick!

Time to Grind Champions!

So what's a hero to do? SmartAsset suggests switching jobs or getting a side hustle. Easier said than done especially when you're busy saving the world. But hey maybe Link can start a Cucco delivery service. Those birds are surprisingly fast. And who knows maybe we can all find a hidden chest filled with rupees (or dollars) to ease the burden. Until then may the Triforce of Courage… and a healthy savings account… be with you!