All

Apache is functioning normally

–

Well, it looks like we’re here in another US election year already. 

As Advanced Mustachians, we already know that the ongoing battle of Harris vs. Trump should not be consuming much of our time.  Sure, we do our research and cast our votes but after that we move right on to focus on other things within our own circle of control.

But out of all the things the politicians like to bicker about, there’s one area where MMM does need to set the record straight, and that area is of course money. Your money, the economy in general, and the overall wealth of the nation. 

Politicians are already not known for being the sharpest tools in the shed when it comes to technical stuff like science, technology, or economics. But this year the discourse has become particularly dumb, as our candidates try to manipulate undecided voters in swing states with ideas that are based on irrational emotions rather than sound economic sense. 

For one particularly funny example, you may have noticed that the competing party (Trump in this case) is attacking the incumbents (Biden/Harris) over the “bad economy.” When in fact the US economy is stronger than it has ever been, with the lowest unemployment we’ve ever seen as well. 

It’s hard to imagine a better situation than we have right now, and in fact the recent bout of higher inflation is a sign that things have been going too well, and we needed to step on the brakes with the help of higher interest rates. 

But somehow the people still seem to believe that we have a “bad” economy. Take a look at this Gallup poll showing that while most people (85%) are doing really well right now, they assume that it’s just their own good fortune – only 17% believe the economy is doing well. 

This is mathematically impossible, because if most people are doing well, that’s the definition of a good economy! And suspiciously enough, this widespread wrongness correlates quite nicely with the rise of social media misinformation.

–

So the politicians and the news have been doing the opposite of what they should be doing in an ideal situation (sharing accurate information). And sure, we can always just ignore their speeches and go on with our lives. But when it comes to economics, knowledge is power (and money). The more accurately we understand how things really work, the wealthier we will all become.

So with all that in mind, I hereby present you with my list of the… 

Top Dumb Things Politicians Want You To Believe About The Economy

1: The President Controls the Economy

If there’s a recession, the opposition party likes to blame it on the current president. If the economy is booming, the current president likes to give himself (or possibly soon herself) credit for all of that success. But really, the US economy is way too big – and thankfully way too free – for the president to control or really even influence all that strongly. 

In reality, our economy is a gigantic machine which converts labor and materials into things like iPhones, hospitals and pumpkin pies. And although we’re the biggest economy at 26% of the planet, we are still heavily influenced by that much bigger 74% of economic activity that the other 7.6 billion people on Earth are busy producing everywhere else.

When we have our inevitable little boom and bust cycles, they are mostly caused by the normal cycle of irrational exuberance (and greed) like the 2007 housing boom, followed by brief periods of extreme fear and pessimism like the 2008-2012 financial and housing crash. 

The government does play a role too, by setting tax rates and other rules. But the effects of these policies are usually so delayed and unpredictable, that you can’t draw a straight line between today’s president and today’s economy. In other words, the government does its best to adjust the rudder on our giant ship, but in the short term our economy lurches around on the waves and storms of the ocean.

2: The President Controls Interest Rates

This one is especially funny to me, as our candidates feign sympathy for the hard life of middle class Americans, who now face higher borrowing costs on their credit cards and car loans and mortgages. They claim they will fight to bring the interest rates down. Trump even goes as far as bullying our Federal Reserve board members (who can only do their jobs if we allow them to function as independent experts) and suggesting that he would take over the whole department, if elected.

The real story is that while monetary policy would be a terrible tool to leave in the hands of a sitting president (see Argentina), it does function as an excellent set of gas and brake pedals for the economy if used properly. When things slow down and unemployment gets too high, a cut to the interest rates will produce a boost in everything from new jobs to stock prices. But if things get too hot, you get rapid inflation which can mess up the system.

3: Inflation has Made Life Harder for Americans (and the President Can Magically Reverse it)

This line of reasoning is even dumber than the last one. For a couple of years after the Covid era, we had rapid inflation. It was caused by a rare combination of a goods shortage caused by things like factory closures and remote work, plentiful demand from government stimulus spending and low interest rates. These factors have since ironed themselves out, and inflation is back down to an ultra-low 2.4%.

Steve Ballmer explains the inflation vs wages debate in his useful new video series called USA Facts (see note below)

But most significantly, wages have still risen faster than inflation so we are all better off than before! Since 2019, overall prices are up 19% and our wages are up 21%. So even after all that inflation, we are still doing just fine. But the candidates are still bickering over inflation as if it’s an actual problem, and even worse promising to “bring prices back down”. And they’ve managed to convince the electorate that “higher wages and prices” is the same thing as “a bad economy”. Which is just plain wrong.

Bonus dumbness: politicians also occasionally blame “greedy corporations” for increasing prices to hoard profits. While price increases are totally acceptable in a market system (as a business owner you are free to set prices wherever you like), in reality it doesn’t usually happen because our markets are too competitive. For example, a recent deep analysis from NPR showed that no, grocery stores haven’t made any windfall profit at all off of this recent bout of Covid-fueled inflation.

4: The President Controls Housing Prices

One important thing that has changed over the past ten years is that US house prices and rents have both risen much faster than general inflation and even wages. On the positive side, interest rates have also risen which tends to make houses feel more expensive and is supposed to help bring house prices down. But it hasn’t happened yet which means we have the double whammy of higher prices and higher interest costs for mortgage borrowers. 

The dumb part is that our candidates are proposing things that would make the problem even worse, like subsidies for first-time homebuyers or schemes to reduce the interest rates. When really the solution is to increase the supply of housing, which I personally think will happen if we stop putting up roadblocks for homebuilders (myself included) to build housing. 

Things like faster and cheaper permits, less onerous and expensive building codes, eliminating suburban-style zoning and setback and car parking rules, and changing laws so that NIMBYs no longer get any say over what other people do with their own land could all help reduce the cost of building a house by about 50%, quickly and permanently.

5: The President Controls Gas Prices, and They Are Currently “High” and We Want Them Lower

Ahh, gasoline! The most ridiculous of things to worry about and the fuel for many of MMM’s rants since 2011. 

First of all, on an inflation-adjusted basis, gasoline is still about the same price as it was in 1950: in the $3-4 range per gallon, in today’s dollars. 

Secondly, it is so cheap that even with our huge inefficient American vehicles, the average household is still only spending 2.5% of their disposable income on the stuff! (The funny part is that they spend many times more on the rest of the car ownership experience while thinking gas is the part that is expensive)

Third, gasoline has been obsolete for almost a decade now. You can get a used electric car for less than the price of a comparable used gas car, or if you’re a fancypants money waster like me, new EVs are also cheaper than their gas counterparts. You get a faster, nicer car that almost never needs maintenance OR gasoline, and save money.

So why are we even still talking about this antique fuel of a previous era? Why aren’t the candidates also arguing over the price of Kodak film or typewriters or fax machines?

6: The Economy is Something We Should Even Worry About

The funniest part about all this economic talk is that we’re focusing on the wrong thing. While hard work and business and advancing the frontiers of human knowledge are all fun things, the reality is that we passed the point of having “Enough” decades ago. When the American middle class complains about how hard we have it these days, it’s like a bunch of overfed people at a buffet wishing they could just have one more flavor of donuts stacked onto the table.

Yes, we have income and wealth inequality so that the rich tend to get richer more quickly. And yes, we should keep that in check with a somewhat progressive tax system because a more equal society tends to be a more peaceful and happy one. 

But have you noticed that as the rich people get richer, they don’t get any happier? It’s because after you pass the point of “Enough”, adding more money doesn’t really help much. 

And “Enough” is much more defined by your mindset (and your collection of life skills) than your paycheck. So if the politicians really cared about improving our happiness and wellbeing, they’d be preaching the Principles of Mustachianism rather than pandering to the specific requests of coal miners or billionaires.

But alas, winning an election is a very different thing than proposing stuff that is actually best for the country. And for that reason, we cast our votes for the best party and then tune back out until the next election.

Happy voting!

In the Comments: Has the election season been getting you down, pumping you up, or just giving you a thorough dose of “Meh”?

Further Reading/Watching: 

While researching economic stats for this article, I came across a quirky but informative series of videos called USA Facts by none other than Microsoft co-founder Steve Ballmer. It seems that he had the same frustration as me: Americans are fighting over a bunch of opinions and misinformation without even bothering to look up the actual facts. So he made a well-produced series of videos that just share the facts without the baggage of political hype on top of them. I wish our politicians could do the same thing!

Bonus Podcast based on this article!
Thanks to the magic of AI, you can direct the wizardry within Google to generate a custom-made podcast on almost anything on the Internet. A reader just emailed me this take on this episode – remarkably human-like and even entertaining!
https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/0e1d0af8-8888-466c-abe4-8b1da8986773/audio

Source: mrmoneymustache.com

Apache is functioning normally

Homeowners who purchased in the last year or so could drive themselves nuts trying to find the perfect time to refinance. After all, it hurt bad enough to miss out on those once-in-a-lifetime low rates of 2020 and 2021, and it’s hard to pull the trigger when refinancing today could potentially mean missing out on even lower rates next week.

This week was a great example of how much mortgage interest rates can change in a short window of time. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate spiked 21 basis points to an average of 6.4%. That’s a whopping 51 basis points more than in the week ending Sept. 19, immediately following the last Federal Reserve meeting. A basis point is one one-hundredth of a percentage point.

Rather than waiting for rates to hit their lowest, homeowners may be better off calculating what rate would give them a reasonable break-even point — the number of months or years it would take to recoup the refinancing costs — and make that their goal.

For instance, suppose a borrower got a $300,000 30-year conventional mortgage in early October 2023 at a rate of 7.5%, which was typical for that time. Refinancing to 6.12% — the average rate posted by Freddie Mac on Oct. 3, 2024 — would result in monthly savings of nearly $300 and savings of $80,155 over the entire life of the loan. Assuming the borrower pays $6,500 in closing costs, the break-even point would be 22 months, or just under two years.

Explore mortgages today and get started on your homeownership goals

Get personalized rates. Your lender matches are just a few questions away.

Won’t affect your credit score

Even small rate changes affect refi opportunities for millions

While Fed watchers are predicting further cuts to the federal funds rate through the rest of this year, mortgage rates don’t have to vary much to create sizable implications for the refi market. According to an October report from real estate tech firm ICE Mortgage Technology, rates falling from 6.4% in August to 6.1% in September grew the number of households who would benefit from refinancing by 1.3 million. An additional mortgage rate drop of 25 basis points (which is within a fair range of normal weekly or even daily changes) would add another 1.2 million to that pool of potential refi candidates.

On the flip side, an Oct. 9 Zillow analysis of homebuying data estimates that approximately 275,000 more households would benefit by refinancing at 6.1% than at 6.6%. According to Zillow, that 0.5-percentage-point rate increase represents a combined loss of over $6 billion in potential refinance savings over five years.

What to do if you’re thinking about refinancing

If you find that refinancing may soon be on the table after you’ve calculated your target rate, you can prepare by getting your financial profile in shape. Get a copy of your credit report, and contact the credit reporting bureaus if you note any mistakes. Pay down existing debts as much as possible, as lowering your debt-to-income ratio will make you a more attractive borrower and can get you a lower interest rate. You should also avoid making any large purchases on credit, like buying a new car or financing new furniture.

Additionally, if you’ve only recently purchased your home, review your closing contract to see if there’s a prepayment penalty for refinancing before a certain number of months have passed. If you’re stuck with that fee, you’ll want to factor that into your break-even calculations and see if that affects your goal rate.

Explore mortgages today and get started on your homeownership goals

Get personalized rates. Your lender matches are just a few questions away.

Won’t affect your credit score

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Between 2000 and 2021, the average published tuition and fees increased from the following amounts, after adjusting for inflation, according to Best Colleges:

•   $2,146 to $3,564 at public two-year schools

•   $5,638 to $9,596 at public four-year schools

•   $25,468 to $37,222 at private nonprofit four-year institutions

This article will cover the average cost of college tuition and fees in 2024, the increase in college tuition costs, the reasons for the rise of average college tuition, and college tuition options you may want to consider for yourself.

Average Cost of College in 2023-24

In 2023-24, the average published price for tuition and fees for full-time undergraduate students were as follows, according to the College Board’s Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid:

•   $11,260 for public four-year in-state institutions, $270 higher than in 2022-2023

•   $29,150 for public four-year out-of-state institutions, $850 higher than in 2022-2023

•   $3,990 for public two-year in-district institutions (including average community college tuition), $100 higher than in 2022-2023

•   $41,540 for private nonprofit four-year institutions, $1,600 higher than in 2022-2023

Recommended: Average Cost of College Tuition

Increase in College Tuition Cost Over the Last 10 Years

Generally speaking, tuition has increased in the past decade. According to data from the College Board, the average published tuition price at a four-year nonprofit university during the 2013-2014 school year was $30,094, while in 2023-2024 that number jumped to $41,540.

Reasons for the Rise of Average College Tuition

The rise of college tuition over the past few decades can be attributed to several key factors, including:

Reduced State Funding

One of the primary reasons for rising tuition costs, especially at public institutions, is the decline in state funding for higher education. As states allocate less money to colleges and universities, these institutions often compensate by increasing tuition to cover budget shortfalls.

Increased Administrative Costs

Colleges have expanded administrative staff and services, including student support, campus amenities, and compliance with federal regulations. This growth in administrative functions adds to overall expenses, which are often passed on to students in the form of higher tuition.

Expansion of Campus Facilities

Many colleges invest in new buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and upgraded dormitories to attract prospective students and remain competitive. These capital expenditures are expensive and often lead to increased tuition to help finance the construction and maintenance of these facilities.

Rising Faculty Salaries and Benefits

The cost of faculty salaries and benefits, including health care and retirement plans, has risen steadily. As colleges strive to attract and retain top talent, these increased personnel costs contribute to higher tuition.

Student Demand for More Services

There is a growing demand from students for more comprehensive services, such as mental health counseling, career advising, and extracurricular activities. Providing these additional services requires funding, which often results in tuition hikes to cover these enhanced offerings.

Together, these factors create a complex landscape where college tuition continues to rise, making affordability a significant concern for many students and families.

Recommended: How to Pay for College

Total Cost of College Over Time

While the cost of tuition has increased over the years, the prices of room and board, books, school supplies, and other necessities have also risen. The cost of room and board has almost doubled since the 1960s, going from $6,700 to more than $12,000, according to Best Colleges.

On Campus vs. Off Campus

How much you spend on college will vary depending on whether you live at home, on campus, or off campus. The College Board found that the cost of living on campus has increased slightly faster than the cost of living off campus, such as in an apartment or house with friends.

Total Cost of College Over Time by School Type

Of course, the type of school you attend (public or private) will also affect the total cost of attendance. Over the last nearly 60 years, the average cost across all institutions has increased 135%. It increased the most at private institutions at 187% and the least at two-year colleges, at 69%.

College Financing Options

Numerous college financing options exist for students. Students can tap into various options to pay for costs. Undergraduate students received an average of $15,480 of financial aid 2022-2023, according to the College Board’s Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid.

Students may rely on scholarships, grants, work-study, and student loans, in addition to personal savings to pay for their education.

Scholarships

Scholarships refer to money received from colleges or other organizations that students don’t have to pay back. Only about 7% of students receive scholarships, with the average student who receives one getting $14,890 annually at a four-year institution.

Student Loans

Students can take advantage of federal or private loans. Federal loans are provided by the U.S. Department of Education. To apply for a federal student loan, students need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year.

Private student loans are provided by banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. These are separate from any sort of federal aid, and as a result, lack the protections afforded to federal student loans — like income-driven repayment options or the ability to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. For this reason, private student loans are generally considered by students only after they have reviewed and exhausted all other options for financing.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step

Grants

Students can tap into federal, state, or institutional grants. Grants can also come from employers or private sources. Like scholarships, grants typically do not need to be repaid. They are mostly awarded based on financial need, and students will generally need to complete the FAFSA to qualify for them.

Work-Study

Students can get a work-study award, which is money they must earn when they attend college. They must file the FAFSA in order to qualify for work-study and must work a job on campus to receive the money.

Personal Savings

According to Sallie Mae’s annual How America Pays for College 2024 report, 37% of students receive help from their parents to pay for college, and 11% use their own income and savings. Strategies for parents paying for college include things like setting up an account designed to help parents save for college or other educational expenses, putting work bonuses or tax refunds into savings, and setting aside funds each month to put toward college.

The Takeaway

The average college tuition continues to increase. In 2000, the college tuition at a private four-year institution was $15,470, and now in 2024 it’s $38,421. There are a number of reasons for increasing tuition rates, including factors like a decrease in state funding, lack of regulation, and an increase in operating costs at colleges and universities.

Many students rely on financial aid to pay for college. Financial aid includes federal student loans, certain grants and scholarships, and work-study programs.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How much has college tuition increased since 2000?

Since 2000, college tuition has significantly increased, jumping about 65% between 2000 and 2021. This surge reflects growing education costs, which have outpaced inflation and wage growth, making higher education increasingly expensive and contributing to the student loan debt crisis faced by many graduates.

How much has the total cost of college increased over the last decade?

Over the last decade, the total cost of college, including tuition, fees, room, and board, has increased by about 10% at public institutions and around 19% at private institutions. This rise reflects growing expenses in education and living costs, making college significantly more expensive for students and families.

How much has college tuition increased in 2024?

In 2024, college tuition increased by 1.6% over the last 12 months. However, this number will vary depending on the institution and whether it is public or private. These increases are consistent with the ongoing trend of rising education costs, impacting students’ financial planning and contributing to higher student loan borrowing.

Photo credit: iStock/MicroStockHub

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOISL-Q324-056

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

As “The Last Frontier,” Alaska is home to untouched nature, from snow-capped peaks and icy blue glaciers to unparalleled wildlife and colorful northern lights. The state’s rugged beauty and diverse landscapes mean there are plenty of towns that embrace this outdoorsy lifestyle. So if you’re looking for a mountain town in Alaska to call home, then you’re in the right place.

At Rent., we’ve curated a list of the best mountain towns in Alaska to consider living in this year. From the majestic Chugach Mountains to the serene Kenai Mountains, there’s a place for everyone in Alaska. Let’s jump in and see what mountain towns made the list.

1. Anchorage

Mountain range: Chugach Mountains

Average rent price: $2,152

Population: 293,530

Houses for rent in Anchorage, AK

Apartments for rent in Anchorage, AK

Homes for sale in Anchorage, AK

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, located in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains, offering residents a unique blend of city life and the adventure of the great outdoors. In the heart of Alaska, Anchorage served as a gateway to the Chugach National Forest, Denali State Park, the Kenai Fjords National Park, and Lake Clark National Park and Preserve which showcase the state’s unparalleled beauty.

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Rabbit Lake Trail, and Kincaid Park offer miles of hiking and biking paths with stunning views. Anchorage offers easy access to skiing at Alyeska Resort or exploring the wilderness of Chugach State Park. With a vibrant dining scene and cultural attractions like the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum, and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, Anchorage appeals to those seeking adventure and comfort.

2. Delta Junction

Mountain range: Alaska Range

Average rent price: $1,425

Population: 900

Houses for rent in Delta Junction, AK

Apartments for rent in Delta Junction, AK

Homes for sale in Delta Junction, AK

Delta Junction, a serene town at the edge of the Alaska Range, offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape. It’s a place where the northern lights dance across the sky, and the wilderness is your backyard. The nearby Delta River provides opportunities for fishing and rafting, while the Rika’s Roadhouse at Big Delta State Historical Park offers a glimpse into the area’s past.

It’s also close to Clearwater State Recreation Site, Tanana Valley State Forest, and the city of Fairbanks. With its small population, Delta Junction provides a tight-knit community feel, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and adventure.

3. Homer

Mountain range: Kenai Mountains

Population: 5,870

Houses for rent in Homer, AK

Apartments for rent in Homer, AK

Homes for sale in Homer, AK

Homer, perched on the edge of Kachemak Bay, is a picturesque town known for its stunning views of the Kenai Mountains and its vibrant arts community. The Homer Spit, a long strip of land reaching into the bay, is lined with shops, restaurants, monuments like the Seafarer’s Memorial, and galleries. Some places in town to visit include the Homer Farmers Market, the Pratt Museum, and the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Kachemak Bay State Park, where there are plenty of hiking trails and kayaking routes. Homer’s reputation as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World” also attracts anglers from all over. Despite its small size, Homer’s charming atmosphere and natural beauty make it a captivating place to live.

4. Juneau

Mountain range: Coast Mountains

Average rent price: $2,380

Population: 32,230

Houses for rent in Juneau, AK

Apartments for rent in Juneau, AK

Homes for sale in Juneau, AK

Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, is a gem located between the Coast Mountains and the Gastineau Channel. It’s a city where history, nature, and culture converge. The Mendenhall Glacier, Eaglecrest Ski Area, and Tongass National Forest offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor exploration, from hiking and wildlife viewing to glacier treks and skiing.

Juneau’s rich history is on display at sites like the Alaska State Museum, the Goldbelt Tram, The Whale Project, and the historic downtown area. Even with its remote location, Juneau has a vibrant community with a diverse culinary scene and arts culture, making it an attractive place for those who love nature and history.

5. Ketchikan

Mountain range: Coast Mountains

Average rent price: $1,838

Population: 7,970

Houses for rent in Ketchikan, AK

Apartments for rent in Ketchikan, AK

Homes for sale in Ketchikan, AK

Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” is a coastal town that offers a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Located along the Inside Passage, a popular route for Alaska cruise ships, Ketchikan has visitors throughout the year. The town is the gateway to the Misty Fjords National Monument, where dramatic cliffs and waterfalls create a stunning landscape for boating and kayaking.

Ketchikan’s rich indigenous culture is celebrated at the Totem Heritage Center, which houses one of the largest collections of totem poles in the world. You can also explore historic sites like Totem Bight State Historical Park, Saxman Totem Park, and the Tongass Historical Museum. The downtown area, with its historic Creek Street, offers quaint shops and eateries. Ketchikan’s location in the Coast Mountains also provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

6. Kodiak

Mountain range: Kodiak Mountains

Population: 5,420

Houses for rent in Kodiak, AK

Apartments for rent in Kodiak, AK

Homes for sale in Kodiak, AK

Kodiak Island, with its rugged Kodiak Mountains, is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers. The island is renowned for its large population of Kodiak bears, and the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge offers a sanctuary for these majestic creatures. Fishing, both commercial and recreational, is a way of life here, with the island’s waters teeming with salmon and halibut.

Kodiak’s rich Alutiiq heritage is celebrated at the Alutiiq Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the island’s indigenous people. You can also explore museums like the Kodiak Maritime Museum, the Kodiak History Museum, and the Friends of Kodiak State Parks. Even with its secluded location, Kodiak’s community is vibrant throughout the year.

7. Nome

Mountain range: Nome-Council Mountains

Population: 3,560

Houses for rent in Nome, AK

Apartments for rent in Nome, AK

Homes for sale in Nome, AK

Nome, situated on the edge of the Bering Sea, is steeped in gold rush history and rich cultural heritage. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which ends in Nome, is a testament to the town’s adventurous spirit. Nome’s surrounding wilderness offers unparalleled opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and exploring the vast tundra.

The Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum provides insights into Nome’s fascinating history. Despite its remote location, Nome’s community is welcoming, with events and activities that reflect the unique blend of Native Alaskan and gold rush cultures.

8. Palmer

Mountain range: Chugach Mountains

Average rent price: $2,865

Population: 7,040

Houses for rent in Palmer, AK

Apartments for rent in Palmer, AK

Homes for sale in Palmer, AK

Palmer, nestled in the Matanuska Valley, is known for its stunning scenery and agricultural heritage. The town is surrounded by the majestic Chugach Mountains, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities such as hiking and glacier trekking. Palmer hosts the annual Alaska State Fair, which showcases the state’s agriculture and regional culture.

The town’s history as part of the New Deal colonization project is explored at the Colony House Museum and the Palmer Museum of History & Art. Palmer’s small-town charm, combined with its scenic beauty and community events, makes it a top mountain town in Alaska to live in.

9. Seward

Mountain range: Kenai Mountains

Population: 2,850

Houses for rent in Seward, AK

Apartments for rent in Seward, AK

Homes for sale in Seward, AK

Seward, located at the head of Resurrection Bay, is a gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park. The town’s waterfront provides access to some of Alaska’s most stunning glacial landscapes and marine wildlife viewing, like the Exit Glacier Trail, the Harding Icefield Trail, and the Aialik Glacier.

Seward is also home to the Alaska SeaLife Center, a research facility and aquarium that offers insights into the region’s marine ecosystem. The town’s history as an ice-free port and railway terminus is on display at the Seward Community Library & Museum and the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center. Seward’s natural beauty, combined with its history, makes it a captivating place to call home.

10. Sitka

Mountain range: Baranof Mountains

Population: 8,380

Houses for rent in Sitka, AK

Apartments for rent in Sitka, AK

Homes for sale in Sitka, AK

Located on the edge of Baranof Island, Sitka is a town where history and nature intertwine. The Sitka National Historical Park, the Sheldon Jackson Museum, and the Baranof Castle State Historic Site offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history. The town’s Russian heritage is evident in its architecture, including the iconic St. Michael’s Cathedral.

Surrounded by the lush Tongass National Forest and the rugged Baranof Mountains, Sitka offers endless outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to wildlife viewing. For example, you can check out Indian River Water Falls, Whale Park, Thimbleberry and Heart Lake Trail, or Halibut Point Recreation Site. Sitka’s combination of natural beauty and history makes it a unique place to live.

11. Skagway

Mountain range: Chilkat Mountains

Population: 1,180

Houses for rent in Skagway, AK

Apartments for rent in Skagway, AK

Homes for sale in Skagway, AK

Skagway is known for its Klondike Gold Rush history, located in the popular Inside Passage. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park tells the story of the thousands who passed through on their way to the gold fields. Skagway’s historic downtown, with its wooden sidewalks and preserved buildings, offers a glimpse into the past.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad provides breathtaking scenic tours through the surrounding mountains. You can also explore the Haines State Forest and Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, which are great areas for enjoying the wilderness. Skagway’s small population and historic charm, combined with its stunning natural surroundings, make it a top mountain town.

12. Talkeetna

Mountain range: Alaska Range

Population: 1,040

Houses for rent in Talkeetna, AK

Apartments for rent in Talkeetna, AK

Homes for sale in Talkeetna, AK

Talkeetna sits at the base of the Alaska Range and is a quaint town with a big personality. Known as the staging ground for Denali expeditions, it’s a hub for climbers and adventurers. The town’s Main Street, with its rustic charm, is lined with cafes, shops, and galleries that showcase local art.

Talkeetna’s clear, dark skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing, especially to catch the northern lights. The annual Moose Dropping Festival and the Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival are just a couple of events that reflect the town’s quirky and welcoming community spirit.

13. Wasilla

Mountain range: Talkeetna Mountains

Average rent price: $1,800

Population: 10,040

Houses for rent in Wasilla, AK

Apartments for rent in Wasilla, AK

Homes for sale in Wasilla, AK

Wasilla, located in the heart of the Mat-Su Valley, is a town that offers a mix of modern conveniences and access to the great outdoors. The Iditarod Headquarters and the Museum of Alaska Transportation provide insights into Alaska’s history and culture. Wasilla’s proximity to the Talkeetna Mountains means residents are never far from hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

Some popular places to explore include the Wasilla Creek Boardwalk Trail and Reflections Lake Trail. The town has a variety of shopping and dining options, making it a convenient place to live for those who appreciate both nature and amenities. It’s also not far from Anchorage if you’re looking to spend the day in the city.

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the mountain towns in Alaska. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Bilt Rewards, a loyalty program known for letting users earn rewards on rent and its co-branded credit card, keeps expanding its list of transfer partners. As of Oct. 10, 2024, Bilt has added two more transfer partners: TAP Air Portugal Miles&Go and Accor Live Limitless (ALL). You can now transfer Bilt Rewards points to TAP at a 1:1 ratio and Accor at 3:2 ratio.

These new partners give you more flexibility in how you use your Bilt points. TAP Air Portugal, a Star Alliance member, opens up opportunities for affordable flights to Europe and beyond. Meanwhile, Accor Live Limitless expands your hotel options, especially in Europe and luxury markets.

More options are usually a good thing, but in this case — unless you have a specific sweet-spot award in mind — these partners are mostly a wash compared to others already available through Bilt Rewards.

Before transferring, make sure to evaluate your travel plans and consider potential drawbacks, such as award availability and point-transfer ratios. These partners can be handy for European travel especially, but you should run the numbers to get the most out of your Bilt points.

TAP Miles&Go overview

TAP Miles&Go has a few competitive mileage redemptions for award flights between the U.S. and Europe, Europe and Africa and within Asia. You can book one-way business-class flights to Europe for relatively low point costs compared to other airlines on certain travel days. That’s a big advantage if your dates are flexible.

TAP is also a Star Alliance member, which means you can book award flights on over two dozen partner airlines. That sounds impressive, but Bilt Rewards members are spoiled for choice with other Star Alliance airlines. Bilt Rewards also transfer at a 1:1 ratio to:

TAP Miles&Go sweet spots

TAP Miles&Go redemption rates vary. If you’re flexible with dates, you can find some deals including:

  • One-way in business class between the U.S. and Europe for 100,000 miles with minimal taxes and fees.

  • One-way in economy between the U.S. and Europe for 29,000 miles. 

  • One-way in business class between Europe and Africa for 66,000 miles. 

TAP Miles&Go drawbacks

There are some major hurdles to using the TAP Miles&Go program. First, TAP’s website is notoriously buggy and can be difficult to use.

Once you are able to run searches, the award prices also may not be meaningfully cheaper than what you can find with other airlines. Award availability can be limited, especially for business-class seats. Some routes may include surcharges, which reduce the overall value of your points.

If you are flying TAP Air Portugal on miles, the route will almost always require you to connect in Portugal, which can be inconvenient for people flying to other destinations.

So while adding TAP Miles&Go as a Bilt transfer partner is a positive development for a few specific use cases, most Bilt Rewards members should also check other transfer options.

Accor Live Limitless overview

Accor Live Limitless (ALL) is another niche, new transfer partner for Bilt. The Accor portfolio includes well-known brands like Fairmont, Sofitel and Ibis, offering options from budget-friendly to luxury stays. This makes ALL a potential option for European travel or high-end properties around the world.

ALL award stays

ALL doesn’t have any sweet spots. Instead, the rewards function more like a rebate program — and every 2,000 points is worth 40 euros (or about $44) toward the cash price of your stay.

If you transfer 3,000 Bilt Rewards, you’d get 2,000 ALL points. So 3,000 Bilt points would be worth around $44, or roughly 1.5 cents each. That’s not a bad redemption considering other hotel brands like Marriott are only worth about 0.9 cent each when redeemed for award stays — and that’s with a 1:1 transfer ratio with Bilt.

You could use ALL points for affordable hotel stays in Europe, especially at mid-range brands like Novotel and Ibis. Because the program doesn’t require you to pay for the entire booking in points, you could also use a combination of cash and points to offset the high cost of luxury hotels like Fairmont and Sofitel properties.

ALL drawbacks

Considering the value of ALL points is fixed, you may be able to realize higher value on an award stay with another hotel program.

Bilt Rewards also partners with Hilton Honors, IHG One Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy and World of Hyatt — all of which have comparatively large hotel collections. You have to be really committed to staying at an Accor hotel to redeem your Bilt points this way. The 3:2 transfer ratio could still reduce the value of your points compared to other 1:1 hotel transfer partners.

Accor has a limited footprint in the U.S., making it less appealing if most of your travel is domestic.

Top photo courtesy of TAP Air Portugal.

How to maximize your rewards

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is known by many as the Cream City for the cream-colored clay bricks that make up many of its historic buildings. Whether it’s the city’s history, deep-rooted beer culture, or gorgeous natural water sources that bring you here, this list of 11 unique things to do in Milwaukee is certain to make you want to stay in this Midwestern gem. If that’s the case, consider looking for an apartment in Milwaukee just around the corner from your favorite bar, a rental house near the river, or a home in the city to find the perfect place to fit your vibe and keep the adventure going. 

1. Stop by the go-to tavern for local sports fans 

Steny’s Tavern in Walker’s Point is more than just a sports bar. Its lively atmosphere, award-winning Bloody Marys, mouthwatering chicken wings, and wide craft beer selection all come together to make the perfect game-day experience. Want to head to the game instead? Grab a brew and jump on one of their free shuttles to local events. 

2. Take in the scenery along Lincoln Memorial Drive 

Another unique thing to do in Milwaukee is spending time at Lincoln Memorial drive. “I love to walk, bike, or run along Lincoln Memorial Drive, a three-mile stretch of scenic splendor on Milwaukee’s magnificent lakefront,” shares local author John Gurda. “More than half of our shoreline is in the public domain, and Lincoln Memorial gives everyone access to wooded bluffs, sandy beaches, paved trails, and even a lagoon that offers pedal-boat rentals.” 

3. Find more than just a meal at Fred’s Frozen Custard & Grill

Tucked in the heart of Washington Heights, you’ll find Fred’s Frozen Custard & Grill. This neighborhood institution has been pleasing Milwaukee taste buds since 1967 with its creamy, made-to-order frozen custard and juicy smash burgers. Every visit to this hidden gem in Milwaukee serves up a scoop of the city’s heart with a smile. 

4. Let your kids discover the magic of their imaginations 

The Betty Brinn Children’s Museum brings learning to life with hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity and imagination. Kids can explore a wide range of real world activities in an engaging and playful way. From architects to veterinarians, there is a fun exhibit for every child to explore their unique dreams and their world. 

5. Ski into the perfect combination of vibes 

If you’re looking for more to add to your Milwaukee bucket list, check out Cathedral Square’s new après-ski themed bar: Experts Only MKE. Enjoy pool, darts, board games, and table-top s’mores while sipping fun specialty cocktails. Pair this unique hangout with their sister spot Barrel Burrito Co. right next door for funky, creative bites loaded with flavor. 

6. Explore the Cream City with an ice cream in hand

Just south of downtown and the Third Ward, Walker’s Point is Milwaukee’s oldest neighborhood – and the best spot for food lovers. Purple Door Ice Cream is one of the many great restaurants and food producers you can find here. What better way to experience the iconic Cream City brick buildings than with an ice cream cone? 

7. Break tradition with the Milwaukee Public Library 

“The Milwaukee Public Library isn’t what it used to be – it’s so much more,” shares Antoine of the Milwaukee Public Library Foundation. “While we still offer access to books and research, today’s library is a dynamic space for innovation, creativity, and connection.” From high-tech maker spaces to community events, the library has transformed into a vibrant hub where people of all ages can learn, create, and thrive together.  

8. Take a sip of history at Shaker’s Cigar Bar 

Once a prohibition-era speakeasy owned by the Capone brothers, checking out Shaker’s Cigar Bar is one of the most unique things to do in Milwaukee. The rich atmosphere, rare whiskies, and stunning rooftop views over downtown Milwaukee are just the beginning. For an unforgettable experience, join their in-house Hangman Tours to explore the city’s hidden past. 

9. Connect with the spirit of Milwaukee at Pabst Mansion 

A tour of the historic Pabst Mansion is one thing you can’t miss if you’re trying to get to know Milwaukee, WI. History and local pride come alive in the beautifully restored rooms and stunning architecture. Discover a new appreciation for Milwaukee’s cultural roots and learn about its brewing legacy in this personalized and unforgettable experience. 

10. Enjoy seasonal dishes in a cozy East Side restaurant 

Tess has been a favorite of local residents since its opening in 2002. This East Side Milwaukee staple specializes in seasonal dishes highlighting local meats and produce alongside a first-class wine and beer selection. Enjoy a relaxed and intimate dining experience in their cozy indoor setting or on the inviting garden patio if you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Milwaukee. 

Image courtesy of La Piña.

11. Kick it up a notch with a taste of tequila

With over 100 varieties of tequila to choose from, La Piña is a standout bar in the emerging Harbor District just south of downtown Milwaukee. Specializing in Tequila and Agave spirits, this unique spot features expert bartenders eager to craft the perfect cocktail for your vibe, or introduce you to a new favorite. 

Unique things to do in Milwaukee, WI: Listen to the local experts

With these recommendations from local experts, you’re certain to become one yourself in no time. These 11 unique things to do in Milwaukee are rooted in the city’s history and culture. You’ll gain a full understanding of what it’s like to live in Milwaukee, WI, and fall in love with the vibrant neighborhoods, river walks, and more that make Cream City a true gem of the Midwest.