Unfortunately, this is not the case. To enjoy even a lower, middle-class lifestyle often requires multiple jobs. There is a breaking point where you can work less and get benefits and do ok or if you make a bit more, you have to foot the bill for the outrageous cost of insuring a family in America.

My brother's job offers insurance that would cost 80% of his take home pay if they were to cover him and the kids.

I pay what my beat up old vehicle is worth annually in insurance because the state requires it.

If you aren't handy and willing to put in the elbow-grease to make shitty products at least livable, you pay a premium to keep up with house/vehicle maintenance. The choice sometimes is between being Money rich and Time poor or being Money poor and Time poor

Unfortunately, this is not the case. To enjoy even a lower, middle-class lifestyle often requires multiple jobs. There is a breaking point where you can work less and get benefits and do ok or if you make a bit more, you have to foot the bill for the outrageous cost of insuring a family in America.

My brother's job offers insurance that would cost 80% of his take home pay if they were to cover him and the kids.

I pay what my best up old vehicle is worth annually in insurance because the state requires it.

If you aren't handy and willing to put in the elbow-grease to make shitty products at least livable, you pay a premium to keep up with house/vehicle maintenance. The choice sometimes is between being Money rich and Time poor or being Money poor and Time poor