Did those higher mortgage rates ruin your plans to refinance your mortgage?
Well, there might be a temporary solution to save some money while you wait for interest rates to move lower again.
Assuming you have the extra cash on hand, you can reduce your interest expense by simply paying more each month until you refi.
For example, pay an additional $100, $250, or $500 per month and you’ll save on interest and knock down your loan balance.
In the process, you will reduce the effective interest rate on your existing home loan and potentially make it easier to refinance later.
You Can Still Save Money Without a Refinance
First off, you can save money on your mortgage without refinancing if you simply pay extra each month.
Let’s consider a simple example where you’ve got a 7% mortgage rate and a $400,000 loan balance.
The monthly principal and interest payment is $2,661.21. In just one year, you’d pay $27,871.29 in interest.
Now imagine you pay an extra $500 per month to save on that interest. The payment is $3,161.21 per month.
After a year, your outstanding balance would be $389,740.45 instead of $395,936.77.
After 24 months, the balance would drop to $378,739.26 instead of $391,579.82.
Your total interest expense for that period would fall from $55,448.86 to $54,608.30.
That’d be about $840 in interest saved and a balance that is $12,841 lower.
The cost would be $12,000 ($500×24 months) for savings of $1,681. That’s a return of roughly 14%.
A Lower Balance Could Make Your Refinance Rate Cheaper Later
Now imagine rates finally fall to a point where you are “in the money” to refinance. Say the 30-year fixed slips to 5.5% by that time.
If you originally put 20% down on your home purchase ($500,000 price tag), your balance could be closer to 75% loan-to-value (LTV).
Using that lower outstanding balance of $378,739.26, you could find yourself in a lower LTV tier. You’d only need a new appraised value of around $505,000.
Being in a lower LTV bucket means you are subject to lower loan-level price adjustments (LLPAs).
As a result, your mortgage rate should be lower all else equal. That might mean a rate of 5.375% instead of 5.5%, or perhaps even 5.25%.
Your rate and term refinance just got even better, simply because you made an extra payment to principal for 24 months.
Sure, it requires you to hand over an additional $500 to your loan servicer each month, and if cash is tight, it’s not doable.
But if you do have extra money on hand and are disappointed that rates haven’t fallen as you thought they would, this is one way to limit the damage of a higher interest rate.
If you were just paying the mortgage on schedule, the appraised value would need to be closer to $521,000 to fall into that lower LTV bucket.
So it could be a double-win in terms of saving some money before you refinance, and enjoying even greater savings once you do eventually refinance.
Read on: How to Lower Your Mortgage Rate Without Refinancing
Before creating this site, I worked as an account executive for a wholesale mortgage lender in Los Angeles. My hands-on experience in the early 2000s inspired me to begin writing about mortgages 18 years ago to help prospective (and existing) home buyers better navigate the home loan process. Follow me on Twitter for hot takes.
Achieving your financial goals in life isn’t just about how much you earn; it’s also about your money mindset. Some of our most deeply held beliefs are about money. What does financial success look like to you? Do you think of yourself as a spender or a saver? Do you avoid talking or thinking about money? The answers to these questions all reflect your money mindset. Changing these ideas can be challenging but worth it.
To create a solid financial future, it’s essential to have a strong, positive money mindset. So, if your financial habits need a little (or a lot of) work, here’s how to change your money mindset. Read on to learn:
• What is a money mindset?
• What is a negative money mindset?
• How can I change my money mindset?
• Why is reshaping my money mindset important?
What Is a Money Mindset?
Your money mindset is your approach to handling money. It determines your spending and saving habits as well as your motivations for your financial management.
Whether you are aware of it or not, everyone has a money mindset — a collection of beliefs starting from childhood that shape what you do with your money. (Your money mindset could even be, “I never think or talk about money.”)
Your money mindset can lead to both positive and negative financial decisions.
For example, have you automated your savings, or do you think saving isn’t something you need to or can focus on just yet? Do you use a budget? Can you treat yourself occasionally, or is buying a $5 coffee not a part of your financial plan? Your money mindset characterizes your relationship with money, and so it is essential to understand and possibly tweak it.
What Is a Negative Money Mindset?
A negative money mindset is a set of unhelpful financial beliefs that can lead to poor resource management. It often involves a constant feeling of stress or guilt regarding money or simply disorganization. It may also involve the belief that “if I just made more money, things would change or all my problems would be solved.” While a higher salary or inheritance might help you toward your financial goals, having more money won’t necessarily change your financial mindset.
While it may seem counterintuitive, your income level doesn’t automatically determine your sense of financial freedom. Additionally, it’s worth noting that your money mindset exists whether you’re conscious of how it influences your behavior or not.
Here are some examples of the ways in which a negative money mindset might have a bad influence on your life:
• You might spend too much money due to comparison with others. You see a friend or colleague renting a pricey apartment and think you should too. That can be an aspect of lifestyle creep, in which your spending increases as your income grows, preventing you from saving and acquiring assets.
• You might not save for long-term goals, like a house or retirement, because your parents never wanted to talk about money when you were growing up.
• Because money stresses you out, you might fail to set financial goals, like paying off your student loans on time.
If it feels like you’re in this negative zone when it comes to your finances, know that you are not saddled with it for life. We’ll explore how to develop a money mindset that’s more positive and productive later in this article.
How Your Beliefs on Money Affect Your Finances
Your primary, most powerful beliefs about money most likely come from your parents and your childhood. Children typically absorb financial beliefs from the most influential people in their life. Then, as they grow older and begin handling money, they live out those financial beliefs, for better or worse.
For example, if your parents modeled money as a way to pamper yourself, you may find that you impulse-shop when life becomes challenging. Your money mindset is that spending equals financial self-care.
On the other hand, you may have a reputation among your friends as “cheap” because you grew up in a penny-pinching household that considered luxuries a waste of money. In both cases, your money mindset puts your financial habits into motion.
These examples underscore that children tend to mimic the behaviors of their parents and adopt their money habits in their own adult life. But in some cases, it’s the opposite. Some people will go to great lengths to not be like their parents. For example, if your parents refused to buy anything that wasn’t on sale when you were growing up, you may make a point of never looking at price tags as an adult.
Why Reshaping Your Money Mindset Is Important
It’s crucial to address negative money mindsets. Otherwise, you’ll likely continue to act on the same faulty beliefs, which can keep you from building the balance in your savings account and reaching your financial goals.
Recognizing an unproductive facet of your money mindset gives you the power to change it. By asking yourself questions about how you currently treat your money and how you’d like to change, you can reorient yourself and create a long-term financial plan. In fact, reshaping your money mindset may include setting financial goals for the first time in your life.
By changing your money mindset you can take full control of your finances, break bad spending habits, and reach your goals.
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How to Change Your Money Mindset
While your upbringing and core experiences impact you in significant ways, you have the ability to recast your money mindset or create an all-new one. When reshaping your money mindset, the following tips can help you transform unhelpful financial behaviors into life-changing, literally enriching habits.
Success With Money Is a Possibility
One key to changing your money mindset is to increase your confidence in your abilities. Don’t count yourself out because of your background or financial circumstances — it’s possible to change these patterns.
Whether you’re working up the courage to sit down and make a beginner’s budget, tackle lingering debts, or give yourself permission to make a fun but totally unnecessary purchase, believing it’s possible is crucial for your success. Perhaps saying affirmations will help you, or maybe reading about others who have attained what you are dreaming of will work best. The right technique is a personal decision.
Understanding Why You Feel This Way
Money is emotional for everyone. Feeling anxious, worried, or excited about your money is normal. Our emotions are rooted in beliefs; therefore, you might feel elated or stressed on payday depending on the beliefs you’re associating with your money. You might crave the feeling of going shopping or you might wake up in the middle of the night worried about your car payments.
Delving into how much money you have coming in and going out can help you better manage your funds. If you have a financial plan that allows you to sock money away and also treat yourself a few times a month, getting paid might create feelings of satisfaction or confidence. Hence, your money mindset is creating positive emotions for you. However, if your paycheck reminds you of your mounting bills, it’s probably time to identify where these feelings are coming from. This way, you can start shifting your money mindset to elevate the stress and anxiety.
Additionally, the more you avoid money, the more intimidating it can feel. Even people with plenty of income might run from figuring out their living expenses because it sparks negative emotions.
Avoid Comparing Yourself to Peers or Social Media Standards
Parents aren’t the only ones who influence your money mindset. Peers and mainstream culture send messages about what success looks like or how to best manage your money.
But what others do or think is irrelevant to your money situation. Also, what works for someone else may or may not work for you, especially if you have different goals. Plenty of general financial principles are worth adhering to, but even those aren’t set in stone. For example, a common guide for budgeting is the 50/30/20 rule, which advises dividing up your take home income like so: 50% on necessities, 30% on wants, and 20% for savings and debt repayments beyond minimum. If you live in a high-cost area, however, earmarking 50% of your income for your needs may not be enough, since you may need to put a large portion of your income towards housing. So, you may need to adjust certain “rules” to fit your situation
Overcoming Your Financial Fears
Change can be scary, and so can money, so cut yourself some slack if you’re afraid of changing your money mindset. It can be comfortable to settle back into the familiar, even when it’s not working.
However, overcoming financial anxiety and developing a positive money mindset is possible. Forge ahead at your own pace, and explore your money mindset: What are the things that worry you about money? Where are your biggest fears coming from?
As you unpack that, remind yourself of your motivation to change. Keep your goals at the forefront, and encourage yourself to take a step in that direction. Taking a small but concrete action toward your goals is how to develop resilience, a key characteristic for succeeding in life.
Recommended: Should You Pay Off Student Loans or Invest?
Avoid Dwelling on the Past
As you attempt to change your money mindset, there may be errors from the past sticking in your mind, reinforcing the idea that you are bad at financial management. Dwelling on the past can stop you from creating a different future. The failures, mistakes, and traumas from the past are real — but they don’t have to define you. For example, if you’ve endured a romantic breakup, that doesn’t mean you can’t date again and find love. In the same way, just because you had too much credit debt recently doesn’t mean you can’t get that issue wrangled.
It’s a good idea to jettison this kind of looking-back viewpoint. Instead, try putting your efforts toward what you can change in the present and strive to achieve in the future.
The Takeaway
Your money mindset is the attitude and beliefs that form your relationship with your personal finances, and it drives your financial habits. Since most people pick up unhealthy financial habits along with healthy ones, it’s crucial to recognize the financial beliefs that aren’t serving you. Then you can set about changing your money mindset and shifting your behavior to better achieve your goals.
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FAQ
How do I get rid of a money scarcity mindset?
The belief that you never have and never will have enough money is part of your money mindset. To change that belief, identify where the mindset came from and make a positive change, such as setting a small savings goal and achieving it.
What is a poor money mindset?
A poor money mindset consists of unproductive beliefs about money that lead to negative financial decisions and habits. An unhealthy relationship with money when growing up or having made past financial mistakes can create a poor money mindset.
How is a money mindset formed?
You form your money mindset through the financial beliefs you hold as true. Your childhood, peers, and financial successes and failures help define your money mindset.
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When thinking about moving to Kansas, there are several factors to consider, such as job opportunities, lifestyle, and the overall sense of community. With its blend of peaceful small towns and thriving cities, the question naturally comes up: is Kansas a good place to live? In this article, we’ll dive into what life in Kansas looks like and provide a balanced view of the pros and cons of settling in this state. If you’re drawn to its rural charm, we’ll help you decide if Kansas could be the right fit for you.
Is Kansas a good place to live?
Living in Kansas provides residents with a balance of quiet rural charm and accessible urban conveniences, with wide-open landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life. Larger cities like Wichita and Overland Park have diverse cultural scenes, featuring theaters, galleries, and local festivals that cater to many lifestyles. The arts community flourishes, supported by institutions like the Wichita Art Museum and the annual Tallgrass Film Festival.
Additionally, if you enjoy outdoor activities, Kansas has much to offer, with an extensive network of parks, trails, and lakes ideal for hiking, biking, and fishing. The scenic Flint Hills and expansive prairies provide breathtaking settings for weekend adventures. While life in Kansas offers a laid-back lifestyle, there are still challenges to keep in mind, such as extreme weather and limited entertainment options in rural areas.
Kansas state overview
Population
2,937,880
Biggest cities in Kansas
Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City
Average rent in Wichita
$881
Average rent in Overland Park
$1,571
Average rent in Kansas City
$962
1. Pro: Kansas has affordable living
Kansas is known for its low cost of living, making it a great place to call home. With low rental prices and relatively affordable utilities, groceries, and healthcare, residents can enjoy a higher quality of life on a modest income. Cities like Wichita and Topeka provide a variety of housing options at reasonable prices, with the average rental rate in Wichita around $900 per month and Topeka’s average at approximately $800 per month. This affordability makes Kansas especially appealing for first-time homebuyers and those seeking financial stability.
2. Con: Extreme weather conditions can disrupt daily life
Kansas experiences a wide range of weather, from blistering hot summers to frigid winters, and is prone to severe storms, including tornadoes. The state lies in the heart of Tornado Alley, making tornado preparedness a necessity for residents. Additionally, the drastic temperature swings can be difficult to adjust to, with humid summers and icy winters creating challenges for daily life. Those who prefer mild, predictable weather might find Kansas’s climate to be a significant drawback.
Insider tip: When you’re moving to Kansas, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local tornado sirens and emergency plans, so you are prepared.
3. Pro: Friendly communities
Kansas is known for its tight-knit communities, where neighbors look out for each other and local events. The state’s small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere make it easier for newcomers to build connections. Cities and towns often host community events, such as fairs, festivals, and parades, that bring people together and celebrate local culture. This emphasis on community can make Kansas a good place to live.
4. Con: Limited entertainment options
While Kansas offers outdoor activities and events in bigger cities, the state can feel lacking in terms of urban entertainment and nightlife. Major cities like Kansas City and Wichita have some options, but they don’t compare to the nightlife scenes in larger cities like New York or Los Angeles. Bars, clubs, and trendy dining spots are fewer and farther between, leaving some residents craving more excitement. Those looking for a vibrant cultural scene or diverse entertainment options might find Kansas less stimulating.
5. Pro: Prairies, rolling hills, and beautiful skies fill the state
Kansas may not have mountains or oceans, but the prairies, rolling hills, and expansive skies make up for it. The state is home to stunning sunsets, scenic byways, and parks like the Flint Hills, which showcase the beauty of the tallgrass prairie. You can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the state’s various nature reserves and wildlife areas. Kansas’s natural beauty provides a peaceful backdrop for those who appreciate the tranquility of the outdoors.
Insider tip: One of the best places to experience the Flint Hills is the Konza Prairie, just outside Manhattan, where you can hike the trails and even spot bison grazing in their natural habitat.
6. Con: You could feel isolated
Kansas has many rural areas, and while this provides peace and quiet, it can also lead to feelings of isolation for those who prefer a more active or connected lifestyle. In more remote areas, access to services like healthcare, shopping, and entertainment can be limited, requiring long drives to nearby towns or cities. This isolation can also mean fewer opportunities for socializing or engaging in cultural activities.
7. Pro: Strong agricultural roots
As one of the leading agricultural states in the U.S., Kansas provides a sense of pride and opportunity for those connected to farming and ranching. The state’s robust agricultural industry fuels the economy and creates a community for those involved in farming. Local farmers’ markets, agricultural fairs, and festivals celebrating the state’s farming heritage are common, adding to the charm of rural life. For those interested in a slower-paced lifestyle and a deep connection to the land, Kansas’s agricultural roots are a major draw.
Insider tip: don’t miss the Lawrence Farmers Market, held every Saturday, where you can find fresh, locally grown produce, handmade goods, and delicious baked treats—all while enjoying live music.
8. Con: Limited job market diversity
While Kansas has a strong agricultural base and growing industries in aviation and manufacturing, its overall job market lacks the diversity seen in larger states. Opportunities in fields like tech, finance, and entertainment are fewer, which may be a challenge for professionals in those sectors. Many residents need to relocate to find specialized positions or remain in more traditional job roles available within the state.
9. Pro: Low traffic and easy commutes
Kansas’s relatively low population density and well-maintained roadways make for easy commutes with minimal traffic. Whether you’re living in a city like Wichita or a smaller town, you’ll likely find that getting to work, school, or other destinations is less stressful and time-consuming compared to more congested urban areas. The lack of gridlock allows residents to enjoy a better work-life balance and more time spent at home rather than stuck in traffic.
10. Con: You’ll have to get used to the strong winds
Kansas is notorious for its strong winds, especially in the central and western parts of the state, where open plains leave little to block gusts. These high winds can be a nuisance, making outdoor activities less enjoyable and causing problems like dust storms, property damage, and increased energy consumption due to drafty homes. The constant winds can also make winters feel colder and more biting, while making summer heat even more intense.
The holiday season is nearly here and with it, ample opportunity to spend big. According to a new NerdWallet analysis, Americans plan to spend about $17 billion more on gifts and about $46 billion more on flights and hotels this holiday season than they did last year.
A survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults, commissioned by NerdWallet and conducted online by The Harris Poll, asked Americans about their holiday shopping and travel plans. We also asked them about actions they’re taking to save money this holiday season.
According to the survey, more than 4 in 5 Americans (83%) plan to purchase gifts for friends and loved ones this holiday season — we’ll refer to them as “holiday shoppers” throughout this report — spending $925, on average. That’s more than 217 million Americans spending over $201 billion. This is quite a bit higher than the 2023 Holiday Shopping Report, where we calculated total gift spending of more than $184 billion.
Travel spending is up as well. The survey found nearly half of Americans (49%) plan to spend money on flights and hotel stays during the 2024 holiday season — we’ll refer to them as “holiday travelers” throughout this report — spending $2,330, on average, for these expenses. That’s more than 128 million Americans spending nearly $300 billion on these travel costs, compared to $254 billion on the 2023 Holiday Travel Report.
Table of contents
Key findings
Some shoppers, travelers are still in debt from last year: The survey found that nearly 3 in 10 Americans who used credit cards to pay for holiday gifts last year (28%) still haven’t paid off their balances. Likewise, the same proportion (28%) of 2023 holiday travelers who put flights and hotel stays on a credit card still haven’t paid off the balances.
Holiday giving may cause shoppers stress, possibly in the name of showing they care: More than half of 2024 holiday shoppers (55%) say the costs associated with holiday spending stress them out. But 32% of shoppers think it’s important to purchase holiday gifts and experiences, despite the costs, to show others love.
Gift giving could harm financial stability: Of 2024 holiday shoppers, 10% say they’ll likely need to use some of their emergency savings to buy holiday gifts this year and 9% say they’ll prioritize gift buying over paying some of their regular bills — like debt payments or utilities — this holiday season.
Some travelers prize plans despite costs: More than 2 in 5 holiday travelers (42%) say they’ll keep their usual holiday travel plans this year, regardless of expense.
“While celebrating the season is a top priority for many Americans, going overboard can cause stress for months afterward, so it’s worth planning ahead to reduce costs where possible,” says Kimberly Palmer, personal finance expert at NerdWallet. “Taking time to compare prices, using savings instead of debt to finance purchases and being flexible with travel plans are among the ways people can take control of their holiday spending,” she adds.
Last year’s debt
Some holiday shoppers may be going into the gift-buying season with lingering debt from last year. Of Americans who put 2023 holiday gift purchases on a credit card, less than a third (31%) paid it off with the first statement. This means that up to 69% of Americans who used credit cards to buy gifts last year may have paid interest on these purchases. Some are still likely paying interest — 28% of 2023 holiday shoppers who used a credit card still haven’t paid off their balances.
Savvy shopping strategy: Pay off last year’s debt and make a budget for this year
If you still have debt from last year’s holiday season, make a plan to pay it off as soon as possible. And think about how much you can reasonably spend on 2024 holiday shopping without carrying a credit card balance into the new year.
According to the survey, 27% of 2024 holiday shoppers have a strict budget for the amount they will spend on gifts this year. Creating a budget before the sales start is a smart move to keep your spending in check.
“Setting aside savings for holiday expenses as early as possible in the year can make it easier to build up more of a cushion before these seasonal expenses hit,” Palmer says. “Estimating the total amount you plan to spend and then sticking to it as you shop and plan travel can also help avoid surprises later.”
Payment methods
Most shoppers plan to use credit cards again for this year’s holiday shopping: Nearly three-quarters of 2024 holiday shoppers (74%) say they’ll put at least some of their holiday gift purchases on a credit card. On average, they plan to charge $723 for these gift purchases.
Other popular payment methods for gift buying include cash (65%) and using money from savings (28%).
Credit cards, when not paid in full by the due date, can be a pricey way to finance gift purchases. But those shopping with payday loans (7%) may be hit with even higher costs in the form of fees that equate to triple-digit interest rates.
Savvy shopping strategy: Avoid letting holiday shopping hurt your finances
Holiday gift giving may be a fun annual tradition, but it’s not worth putting your financial health at risk. According to the survey, 10% of 2024 holiday shoppers will likely need to use some of their emergency savings to buy holiday gifts this year and 9% will prioritize gift buying over paying some of their regular bills this holiday season. Consider decreasing your shopping budget if you’d otherwise have to take on expensive debt, spend down your nest egg or forgo bill payments to pay for gifts. These actions could be costly, which may taint the joy of the season.
Holiday shopping plans
Many 2024 holiday shoppers plan to shop the sales, with 39% saying they plan to shop on Black Friday and 36% planning to shop on Cyber Monday this year. And around 1 in 7 (15%) have completed or will complete the majority of their holiday gift shopping during the mid-summer and fall sales.
Some will shop locally: Of 2024 holiday shoppers, 16% plan to shop on Small Business Saturday and the same proportion (16%) say they’ll prioritize shopping at locally-owned or small businesses this year.
Cutting back on gifting is on the agenda for some shoppers: Of 2024 holiday shoppers, 28% say they’ll spend less per person on gifts this year and 27% say they’ll purchase gifts for fewer people this year compared with years past.
Finally, some shoppers likely don’t even have gift buying on their radar yet: 14% of 2024 holiday shoppers say they traditionally shop for gifts at the last minute, or within days of a gift exchange.
Savvy shopping strategy: Look for ways to save
In addition to shopping the big sales — such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday — there are other ways to save on gift buying this upcoming holiday season. According to the survey, 32% of 2024 holiday shoppers plan their purchases in advance so they can monitor them continuously for sales before purchasing, and 23% use coupon or cashback sites or apps when making holiday gift purchases. Other 2024 shoppers may be avoiding buying all new gifts by regifting (11%) and purchasing some gifts secondhand this year (12%).
“Smart shopping is all about planning ahead so you have time to compare prices and wait for the right discount to make your purchase. It’s easier to overspend when you feel rushed, so making your shopping list early is a good strategy,” Palmer says.
Holiday shopping feelings
Nearly three-quarters of 2024 holiday shoppers (73%) say the holiday season is their favorite time of year, which may be leading some to overextend themselves. More than half of 2024 holiday shoppers (55%) say the costs associated with holiday spending stress them out and 40% say they feel pressure to spend more money on holiday gifts than they’re comfortable spending. Still, 32% of 2024 holiday shoppers think it’s important to purchase holiday gifts and experiences, despite the costs, to show others love.
Savvy shopping strategy: Set boundaries with loved ones
According to the survey, 22% of 2024 holiday shoppers have discussed or plan to discuss limiting holiday gift spending this year with their friends and family members. Stretching your finances due to a sense of obligation or tradition could be a cue to reevaluate your shopping plans.
“If you don’t have enough savings to buy gifts for everyone on your list this year, it might be a good time to talk about scaling back or opting for a more limited gift exchange. Giving a homemade gift or a coupon for an activity together are also popular options that don’t strain the budget,” Palmer says.
You might be pleasantly surprised at your friends’ and family members’ willingness to scale back. Around a third of Americans (33%) say they’d rather have an experience with their loved ones instead of exchanging gifts during the holiday season and 23% would prefer to receive fewer gifts this upcoming holiday season than they typically get. Gift giving can be expensive and stressful, and if you’re feeling that way, it’s possible your loved ones can relate.
Holiday travel
Last year’s debt and this year’s credit card usage
Similar to holiday shoppers, 28% of 2023 holiday travelers who put flights or hotel stays on a credit card still haven’t paid off these balances. Less than a third of those who used credit cards for 2023 holiday travel (31%) paid it off with the first statement.
As for this year, nearly three-quarters of 2024 holiday travelers (72%) plan to put some or all of their holiday flight and hotel expenses on a credit card. And 15% of holiday travelers say they applied for a new credit card to get a signup bonus to help pay for 2024 holiday travel expenses.
Thrifty travel tips: Pay off last year’s debt & take steps to save on this year’s travel
According to the survey, more than a quarter of 2024 holiday travelers (28%) are reducing their everyday spending in order to save money to pay for holiday travel expenses this year and 24% plan to spend less on holiday gifts this year in order to save money for 2024 holiday travel expenses. These are also good strategies to free up cash to put toward any lingering debt from last year’s holiday travel.
Getting a new travel card for a signup bonus can be a smart idea to help reduce the cost of holiday travel, provided you pay off the balance each month. Otherwise, interest payments will eventually outweigh any rewards you earn.
“As with gifts, planning ahead can make it easier to leverage credit card rewards because you generally need several months to accrue the rewards before you use them. Staying flexible on your exact dates and destination can also help you find lower cost options,” Palmer says.
Holiday travel plans
Travel can get pricey, especially at peak times like the holiday season. Still, 42% of 2024 holiday travelers say they’ll keep their usual holiday travel plans this year, regardless of expense. For some, it’s a holiday priority: 28% of 2024 holiday travelers say that traveling over the holiday season is more important to them than the giving and receiving of gifts.
Thrifty travel tip: Start saving for next year’s holiday travel
It’s fine to prioritize holiday travel, as long as you can afford it. Once this holiday season ends, start making plans for next year. This could mean setting aside money every month throughout the year, saving an upcoming windfall or strategically accruing credit card rewards to bring down the cost of holiday travel in 2025.
“If you end the holiday season with more debt and financial stress than you would have liked, consider making a plan for next year now. It’s never too early to start building up a holiday fund, and doing so can help you look forward to the season all year long,” Palmer says.
Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NerdWallet from Sept. 10-12, 2024, among 2,079 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, among whom 1,735 plan to purchase gifts this holiday season and 914 plan to spend money on flights/hotels during the 2024 holiday season. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. This credible interval will be wider among subsets of the surveyed population of interest. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact [email protected].
We used U.S. Census population estimates and survey responses to calculate the total number of Americans who plan to buy gifts this holiday season and total gift spending, as well as the total number of Americans who plan to pay for flights or hotel stays this holiday season and total travel spending.
Disclaimer
NerdWallet disclaims, expressly and impliedly, all warranties of any kind, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or whether the article’s information is accurate, reliable or free of errors. Use or reliance on this information is at your own risk, and its completeness and accuracy are not guaranteed. The contents in this article should not be relied upon or associated with the future performance of NerdWallet or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties as indicated by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” “should” or “anticipates” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may materially differ from NerdWallet’s presentation of information to analysts and its actual operational and financial results.
Looking to buy or sell an online business and are looking for a Flippa review? I have personally bought one website as well as have sold three websites in the past, and I think this can be a great way to make extra money. Flippa is a popular marketplace where people buy and sell websites,…
Looking to buy or sell an online business and are looking for a Flippa review?
I have personally bought one website as well as have sold three websites in the past, and I think this can be a great way to make extra money.
Flippa is a popular marketplace where people buy and sell websites, e-commerce stores, YouTube channels, and other online businesses.
Flippa connects buyers and sellers of online businesses, helping hundreds and sometimes thousands of deals happen each month. You can find all kinds of digital properties on the platform, from small blogs to big e-commerce sites.
But is Flippa the right choice for you? While it has many opportunities, some listings might not be as good as they seem. It’s important to do your homework before jumping into any deal.
Let’s take a closer look at what Flippa has to offer and how you can use it safely.
Please click here to head to Flippa’s website where you can buy and sell online businesses.
Flippa Review
Below is my Flippa review. Enjoy!
What Is Flippa?
Flippa is a popular online marketplace for buying and selling digital businesses. It connects entrepreneurs looking to sell their websites, apps, or online stores with potential buyers.
It’s like eBay but for websites and apps instead of physical items. You can find all kinds of online businesses for sale on Flippa.
The platform is easy to use. Sellers list their businesses, and buyers can browse or search for what they want. Flippa handles the money part to keep things safe for everyone.
Types of online businesses on Flippa
Flippa has a wide range of online businesses for sale. Here are some types you can find:
Websites: Blogs (such as finance or travel blogs), content sites, and niche sites
E-commerce stores: Shopify, Amazon, and other online stores
Mobile apps: iOS and Android applications
Domain names
SaaS businesses: Software as a service companies
You can find both small starter sites and big, profitable businesses. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to millions. This variety makes Flippa great for buyers at all levels.
Buying a Business on Flippa
Flippa is a marketplace where you can buy websites and online businesses. It has many options, but you need to be smart and do your homework before making a purchase.
Why buy a website?
Buying a website can be a great way to make money online. You don’t have to start from scratch. Instead, you get a ready-made business that’s already earning money. This can save you time and effort.
Some benefits of buying a website include:
Instant income
Existing traffic and customers
Proven business model
Many people buy existing online businesses (like blogs) and find ways to improve them so that they can make more money. For example, you may improve the blog design or add a new revenue stream to the business.
But remember, not all websites for sale are good deals. You need to look closely at each one to make sure it’s worth your money.
I have personally bought a website many years ago, and I have many friends who have bought websites as well. For me and most of my friends – we have been able to make money by buying a website that someone else created.
Recommended reading: How I’ve Turned Buying Websites Into My Full-Time Career
How to buy a business on Flippa
Buying on Flippa is pretty simple.
Here’s how you can do it:
Create an account on Flippa.
Search for websites in your niche or budget.
Review the listings carefully.
Ask the seller questions.
Place a bid or make an offer.
If you win, complete the payment.
Transfer the website to your control.
It’s important to take your time and not rush into a purchase. Buying a business is a big decision!
How Flippa works for buyers
Flippa connects you with people selling their websites or online businesses. You can browse listings, ask questions, and make offers.
Flippa has some tools to help you such as:
Verified traffic data
Revenue proof
Site age information
Seller ratings
These can help you decide if a listing is worth your time. But you still need to do your own research too.
Due diligence for buyers
Due diligence means checking everything carefully before you buy. This is super important when buying a website.
Here are some things to look at:
Traffic sources: Check Google Analytics to see where visitors come from
Revenue: Ask for proof of income, like PayPal statements
SEO: Use tools like Semrush to check the site’s search rankings
Content: Make sure it’s original and high quality
Technical issues: Look for any problems with the site’s code or design
Flippa has a “Red Flag Report” that can help spot potential issues. Flippa does charge for this – anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 per report. But don’t rely on this alone as you should always do your own research too.
The Selling Process
Selling a website on Flippa can be a great way to make money from your hard work.
Why sell a website?
You might want to sell your website for a few reasons.
Maybe you’re ready for a new project. Or you need quick cash. Sometimes, you’ve grown the site as much as you can and want someone else to take it further.
Selling can give you a big payday as websites usually sell for 20 to 36 times their monthly profit. So if your site makes $1,000 a month, you could get $20,000 to $36,000 for it!
Recommended reading: How I’ve Made $80,000 Selling Blogs
How to sell a business on Flippa
Selling on Flippa is pretty easy. First, you make a listing. You’ll need to share info about your site, like how much money it makes and how much traffic it gets.
Flippa charges a listing fee, and the fee all depends on how much you plan on selling your online business for.
When your site sells, Flippa takes a cut. This is called a success fee. It’s 10% for sites that sell for under $50,000. The fee gets smaller for more expensive sites.
You can set a starting price or let people bid. You can also set a “Buy It Now” price if you want.
Preparing your business for sale
Getting your site ready to sell is very important. You want to make it look as good as possible to buyers.
You can start by cleaning up your finances. For example, having clear records of your income and expenses is a must.
Next, make sure your site looks nice and works well, such as by fixing any broken links or errors.
In your listing, you should talk about what makes your site special. Maybe it’s a loyal audience or a unique product – highlight these things in your listing.
Flippa’s Fees and Payment
Flippa charges fees for listing and selling websites and online businesses. They have different fee structures depending on the sale price.
Below we will take a look at how Flippa’s fees work and how you get paid when selling a site.
Listing fees
When you list your site on Flippa, you’ll need to pay an upfront fee. This fee helps keep listings high quality. The cost depends on what you’re selling and your asking price:
Domains: $9 starting fee to list
Websites and apps: $15 starting fee to list
Established businesses: $49 starting fee to list
You can also buy extra features to make your listing stand out. These include a “featured” tag or a spot at the top of search results. These add-ons cost more but might help you sell faster.
Success fees for sales
Flippa takes a cut when you sell your site. This is called a success fee and the amount depends on how much your site sells for:
For sales up to $249,999: 10% fee
Sales between $250,000 and $499,999: 9% fee
Sales from $500,000 to $999,000: 8% fee
Sales from $1,000,000 to $4,999,000: 7% fee
Sales from $5,000,000 to $9,999,000: 4% fee
Sales over $10,000,000: 3% fee
So, if you sell your site for $75,000, Flippa would take $7,500 as their fee.
How does Flippa pay you when selling a site?
When your site sells, Flippa uses a system called escrow to handle the money. Here’s how it works:
The buyer sends money to the escrow account.
You transfer the site to the buyer.
The buyer checks that everything is okay.
The escrow service releases the money to you.
This process keeps both you and the buyer safe. You don’t give up your site until the money is there, and the buyer doesn’t pay until they get the site. Flippa takes their fee from this final amount before sending you the rest.
Flippa Scams
Buying and selling websites on Flippa can be risky because there is money involved. Some sellers try to trick buyers with fake info.
Below let’s look at common scams and how to protect yourself.
Common Flippa scams
One of the most common Flippa scams includes fake revenue screenshots. Now, there are plenty of real sites for sale on Flippa (with honest sellers), but this can sometimes be a problem on Flippa. Some sellers may edit images to show higher earnings than reality, and this trick fools buyers into paying more money for a website.
Another scam is lying about pageviews and traffic. Sellers might use bots to boost visitor numbers and this makes their site look more popular than it is.
Some people sell sites with copied content. They steal articles from other websites and this can lead to legal issues for the buyer.
How to stay safe on Flippa
Even though there are some scammers on Flippa, the majority of listings and sellers are truthful and are real. But, since money is involved, I always recommend that you be careful because you just never know.
There are some ways to stay safe on Flippa, such as:
Always double-check the numbers. Ask for proof of income from PayPal or bank statements. Don’t trust screenshots alone.
Use tools like Semrush to check real traffic. This helps you spot fake visitor claims.
Look for original content. Use plagiarism checkers to find copied text.
Get an expert to review high-priced sites. They can spot red flags you might miss.
Check the seller’s history. Look for good reviews from past buyers. Be careful with new sellers who have no track record.
Ask lots of questions. An honest seller will be happy to give you more info.
Flippa Pros and Cons
Flippa has good and bad points for buying and selling websites.
Pros of Flippa
Here are two Flippa pros:
Flippa has a huge group of buyers, so this means that you have more chances to sell your site. There are thousands of people who just browse on Flippa each day looking for the best deals.
You can find many types of sites on Flippa. They have different topics and prices, and you might find a cheap site to start with or a big one to grow.
Cons of Flippa
Here are two Flippa cons:
Flippa takes a big cut when you sell. They charge 10% for sites sold under $50,000. This can eat into your profits, of course.
There are sometimes scams on Flippa so you need to be very careful when buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about Flippa.
Is Flippa reputable?
Flippa is a well-known marketplace for buying and selling websites. It has been around since 2009 and many people use it. But like any online platform, you need to be careful.
Is it safe to sell on Flippa?
Selling on Flippa can be safe if you take the right steps. Make sure to use their escrow service and give honest info about your website.
Is it safe to buy on Flippa?
Buying on Flippa can be safe, but you need to be careful. I recommend that you always do your own research on any website you want to buy and don’t rush into a purchase.
What should I look out for to make sure a website I buy on Flippa is legitimate?
To make sure a website you want to buy is real, I recommend that you check the site’s traffic proof, income proof, the seller’s history on Flippa, and that you ask questions about anything that seems odd. If possible, talk to the seller directly. Don’t ignore red flags.
How much does Flippa take from a sale?
Flippa takes a cut of your sale price. For sites selling for $50,000 or less, they take 10%. The fee gets smaller for higher-priced sites.
How long does it take to sell on Flippa?
Selling time on Flippa can vary a lot. Some sites sell in a few days, while others might take weeks or months. According to Flippa, the average online business that costs less than $50,000 usually sells within 15 days, the average $50,000 to $250,000 business takes around 1.5 months, and businesses over $250,000 usually take around 2.5 months.
What are some Flippa alternatives for buying and selling sites?
You have other options besides Flippa for buying and selling sites. Some other popular ones are Empire Flippers, Motion Invest, and FE International.
Flippa Review – Summary
I hope you enjoyed my Flippa review.
So, is Flippa legit?
Flippa is a real company that’s been around for years. Many people use it to buy and sell websites and they have done over 450,000 transactions.
They also have many different categories that you can buy and sell in, such as e-commerce stores, blogs, apps, and other digital assets. Flippa’s marketplace also has many businesses in all kinds of price ranges, so you don’t need to have a ton of money saved in order to buy a business, as there are businesses for sale for less than $10,000 on Flippa all the time.
But like any marketplace, you need to be smart and careful when using it.
I have personally bought and sold a few websites over the years, and I actually just took a quick look on Flippa and saw one of those very same sites listed for sale again on Flippa – what a small world, especially since there are currently over 4,200 websites listed for sale on Flippa. Many people use Flippa all the time to buy and sell a website, and if I were needing to buy or sell right now, I would have no problem with using Flippa – it is a safe site as long as you are careful and avoid scams.
Please click here to head to Flippa’s website where you can buy and sell online businesses.
Are you interested in buying and selling online businesses?
When people think of Santa Monica, they often picture its famous beach, the lively pier, and the bustling Third Street Promenade. However, the true essence of living in Santa Monica extends beyond its iconic coastal attractions. The suburbs of Santa Monica offer a variety of residential areas that provide a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still offering easy access to the city’s vibrant amenities. These Santa Monica suburbs are spread across different parts of the Westside, each with its own distinct character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Santa Monica suburbs—from upscale enclaves along the coast to charming residential communities further inland—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Santa Monica or curious about the different Los Angeles neighborhoods in the surrounding area, let’s discover the best parts of Santa Monica to call home.
Cost of living in Santa Monica
Before we dive into the top Santa Monica suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in this coastal city. The overall cost of living in Santa Monica is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting its premium location and amenities. Housing plays a major role in this, with the median sale price for a home in Santa Monica at around $1.4 million, which is well above the national average of $432,657. Rent also follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica sitting at $3,760—considerably higher than the national average of $1,514.
While some nearby areas offer more affordable living options, others, like Santa Monica itself, come with a higher price tag. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of suburbs that offer different lifestyle and housing opportunities to fit your budget and preferences.
1. Pacific Palisades
Known for: Coastal views, upscale living, and outdoor activities
Pacific Palisades is one of the most prestigious and picturesque suburbs near Santa Monica. Nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this affluent area is a haven for those seeking luxury, privacy, and natural beauty. The Palisades Village serves as a quaint town center with upscale dining, boutique shops, and local services. Residents enjoy easy access to scenic trails in the nearby Temescal Canyon and Will Rogers State Historic Park, offering a unique blend of coastal and mountain living. The large, multimillion-dollar estates perched on hills with panoramic views of the ocean make it one of the most desirable places to live near Santa Monica.
Population: 28,000 Median home sale price: $3,123,750 Pacific Palisades transportation scores: Walk Score 19, Bike Score 15, Transit Score 32
Apartments for rent in Pacific Palisades, CA | Houses for rent in Pacific Palisades, CA | Homes for sale in Pacific Palisades, CA
2. Brentwood
Known for: Affluent lifestyle, boutique shopping, and fine dining
Brentwood is synonymous with luxury and charm. Located just east of Santa Monica, this exclusive suburb is home to sprawling estates, tree-lined streets, and an upscale vibe. Brentwood offers a unique blend of city access and suburban tranquility, with Sunset Boulevard running through its heart, lined with high-end restaurants and shops. The Brentwood Country Mart is a favorite spot for locals to gather, offering everything from gourmet groceries to chic clothing boutiques. The neighborhood’s well-maintained parks and proximity to the Getty Center make it appealing for those who appreciate culture, history, and outdoor leisure. Housing options here range from charming mid-century homes to sprawling estates with manicured gardens.
Population: 32,000 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,462 Median home sale price: $812,500 Brentwood transportation scores: Walk Score 38, Bike Score 50
Apartments for rent in Brentwood, CA | Houses for rent in Brentwood, CA | Homes for sale in Brentwood, CA
3. Westwood
Known for: UCLA, cultural attractions, and proximity to Beverly Hills
Westwood is a bustling, vibrant neighborhood that combines the energy of a college town with the sophistication of Westside living. It’s home to UCLA, making it a hub for students, academics, and professionals alike. The neighborhood’s cultural scene is anchored by attractions like the Hammer Museum, the Geffen Playhouse, and the historic Fox Theater. Westwood’s dining scene offers a variety of global cuisines, and its walkable streets are lined with coffee shops, bookstores, and boutiques. Westwood boasts a range of housing, from high-rise apartments and condominiums to more traditional homes, offering something for nearly every lifestyle. Its proximity to Beverly Hills and Santa Monica also makes it an attractive location for those who want easy access to multiple Westside hotspots.
Population: 50,000 Median home sale price: $50,000 Westwood transportation scores: Walk Score 69, Bike Score 55, Transit Score 66
Apartments for rent in Westwood, CA | Houses for rent in Westwood, CA | Homes for sale in Westwood, CA
4. Venice
Known for: Bohemian vibe, artistic community, and beachfront living
Venice is one of the most eclectic and dynamic suburbs near Santa Monica. Famous for its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, and skate park, Venice blends beach culture with a bohemian lifestyle. The area is known for its creative residents, with art studios, galleries, and murals dotting the neighborhood. Venice’s iconic canals add to its charm, offering serene views and unique homes lining the waterways. The neighborhood’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard, often referred to as the “Coolest Block in America,” is a shopping and dining hotspot, featuring trendy boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. Venice’s relaxed yet creative vibe makes it one of the most distinct areas in the Santa Monica region.
Population: 40,000 Median home sale price: $1,850,000 Venice transportation scores: Walk Score 83, Bike Score 88, Transit Score 52
Apartments for rent in Venice, CA | Houses for rent in Venice, CA | Homes for sale in Venice, CA
5. Mar Vista
Known for: Community feel, diverse housing, and proximity to the beach
Mar Vista is an up-and-coming suburb located southeast of Santa Monica, known for its diversity, community gardens, and relaxed atmosphere. The neighborhood is popular with creatives and professionals who appreciate the more affordable housing options compared to neighboring Venice and Santa Monica. Mar Vista has a mix of charming single-family homes, mid-century apartments, and newly built condos. It offers a neighborhood-centric vibe, with a focus on local businesses, weekend farmers’ markets, and communal green spaces. Residents love its proximity to both the beach and downtown LA, making Mar Vista an excellent option for those seeking balance between suburban tranquility and city access.
Population: 37,000 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,789 Median home sale price: $2,037,000 Mar Vista transportation scores: Walk Score 75, Bike Score 76, Transit Score 50
Apartments for rent in Mar Vista, CA | Houses for rent in Mar Vista, CA | Homes for sale in Mar Vista, CA
6. Culver City
Known for: Creative industries, walkable downtown, and cultural attractions
Culver City has quickly become one of the trendiest areas in West LA, with its rich history in film and television production. Sony Pictures Studios and other major entertainment companies have called Culver City home for decades. Recently, it’s transformed into a modern hub of tech startups and media companies, attracting professionals in creative fields. The downtown area is highly walkable and full of restaurants, art galleries, coffee shops, and theaters. With a growing number of parks and cultural attractions, Culver City offers a blend of urban energy with suburban comfort. Housing in Culver City ranges from chic apartments to historic homes, with many new developments adding to the modern appeal.
Population: 40,000 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,915 Median home sale price: $1,218,750 Culver City transportation scores: Walk Score 76, Bike Score 71, Transit Score 48
Apartments for rent in Culver City, CA | Houses for rent in Culver City, CA | Homes for sale in Culver City, CA
7. Playa Vista
Known for: Tech hub, new developments, and proximity to the beach
Playa Vista is one of the most modern and tech-centric suburbs near Santa Monica. It’s the center of Silicon Beach, where tech companies like Google, YouTube, and Facebook have offices, attracting professionals in the tech industry. Playa Vista offers a wide variety of new housing developments, from luxury condos to sleek apartments, all with modern amenities. The neighborhood has numerous parks, fitness centers, and dining options, making it an ideal spot for active residents. Playa Vista’s central location provides easy access to LAX, the beach, and major highways, offering convenience for work and play. It’s perfect for those seeking an upscale, tech-driven lifestyle in a walkable, green community.
Population: 15,000 Median home sale price: $1,330,000 Playa Vista transportation scores: Walk Score 69, Bike Score 88, Transit Score 45
Apartments for rent in Playa Vista, CA | Houses for rent in Playa Vista, CA | Homes for sale in Playa Vista, CA
8. Westchester
Known for: Quiet residential feel, proximity to LAX, and diverse housing
Westchester offers a peaceful, suburban feel while still being close to Santa Monica and other parts of West LA. Its location near LAX makes it convenient for frequent travelers, while its quiet streets and well-kept homes attract those seeking a tranquil neighborhood. Westchester is primarily residential, featuring a mix of single-family homes, mid-century bungalows, and newer apartment complexes. The area also boasts several parks and local shops, creating a small-town feel while being just minutes away from major urban centers like Culver City and Venice.
Population: 49,000 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,600 Median home sale price: $1,500,000 Westchester transportation scores: Walk Score 61, Bike Score 58, Transit Score 43
Apartments for rent in Westchester, CA | Houses for rent in Westchester, CA | Homes for sale in Westchester, CA
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Santa Monica area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.
Both hard and soft credit inquiries can stay on your credit report for up to two years. However, their impact on your credit score can vary substantially based on your circumstances and the type of inquiry or inquiries you’re dealing with. For instance, soft credit inquiries usually don’t ding your score at all and are visible only to you on your credit report.
Read on to learn more about how long credit inquiries stay on your report and the effects they can have while there.
Key Points
• Credit inquiries typically stay on your credit report for up to two years.
• Each hard inquiry can temporarily reduce your credit score by five to 10 points. Soft credit inquiries, which are visible only to you, do not affect your credit score.
• Multiple hard inquiries for a home or auto loan in a short period count are generally counted as a single inquiry when you are rate shopping.
• Hard inquiries remain on your credit report for two years but may affect your score for only one.
• Limiting credit inquiries can help build or maintain a credit score and overall financial health.
What Is a Credit Inquiry?
A credit inquiry is a request to look at your history of using credit. This occurs any time a prospective lender wants to take a peek to assess your creditworthiness and potentially extend you a loan or line of credit. Your credit file can show how well you’ve used credit in the past and whether, for example, you typically pay bills on time and have used different forms of credit (such as credit cards and installment loans) responsibly.
Credit inquiries come in two flavors: hard inquiries and soft inquiries.
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What Is a Hard Inquiry?
A hard credit inquiry occurs when you officially submit an application for a credit card or loan. The vast majority of lenders will run a hard credit check in order to approve your application for these financial products.
Hard inquiries occur when you apply for a new loan or line of credit (say, a mortgage or a credit card). These hard pulls, as they are sometimes called, can have a negative impact on your credit score, particularly if you apply for many new loans or lines of credit at the same time. Lenders may see this behavior as a risk factor, since you might take out more credit than you can afford to pay back.
A hard inquiry can lower your credit score by about 5 to 10 points each. While these inquiries can stay on your report for up to two years, they may not have an impact after one year.
What Is a Soft Inquiry?
A soft credit inquiry may be pulled by a potential lender to prequalify you for a loan or determine your eligibility for a line of credit but without officially approving your application. Soft credit inquiries can also be part of employment background checks or be requested when you start services with a utility company. You might even pull your credit file yourself to review it for accuracy. That too is a soft inquiry.
The good news is that while they can stay on your report for up to two years, soft inquiries have no impact on your credit score. What’s more, they are visible only to you.
Exceptions to the Impact on Your Credit Score
As mentioned above, only hard inquiries can have an impact on your credit score. Additionally, it’s worth noting that even with hard inquiries, if you’re shopping around for a specific type of loan, you can take advantage of a rate shopping window. Here’s an example:
Say you’re getting ready to buy a house or a car. You may be focused on building your credit score and using a money tracker app to manage your spending and saving goals. When it’s time to shop around for the loan with the most favorable terms, a finalized rate may be available only with a fully completed application (including a hard credit inquiry). So you want to file multiple applications to see where you are approved with the best deal for your situation.
Fortunately, the credit bureaus treat multiple hard inquiries for loans of the same category as only a single inquiry. They do, however, need to be made within a certain time frame — usually between two weeks and 30 days, depending on the type of loan.
In this way, loan shopping may not have too serious an impact on your credit score.
How Long Do Credit Inquiries Stay on Your Credit Report?
Hard credit inquiries can stay on your credit report for up to two years. That’s true for soft credit inquiries, too. As mentioned above, hard pulls may impact your credit score only for a year, and soft pulls are visible only to you.
This maximum time frame of two years is substantially shorter than other markers, such as bankruptcy, which can remain on your credit report for seven or 10 years.
What Is the Difference Between a Hard and Soft Inquiry?
A hard inquiry is used to officially approve an application for a loan or line of credit, and it can have a temporary negative impact on your credit score. A soft inquiry is used in most other instances when your credit score is pulled. It does not have an impact on your credit score, nor is it visible to anyone but you.
How Much Does a Hard Inquiry Lower Your Credit Score?
Usually, a hard inquiry will lower your credit score only by five to 10 points (though the dip may be more meaningful if you’re working to build your credit). While the hard pull will stay on your record for up to two years, it often has a negative impact for only one year.
Note that your credit score updates generally occur every 30 to 45 days.
How Much Does a Soft Inquiry Lower Your Credit Score?
Trick question! Since a soft credit inquiry has no impact on your credit score whatsoever, it won’t lower it at all. In fact, as noted, soft pulls are not even visible to prospective lenders and will show up on your end only when you review your credit file.
How Do Hard Inquiries Affect Shopping for Loans?
Hard inquiries inform lenders that you’re actively shopping for credit. As mentioned above, if all that credit shopping is in the same category in a short amount of time, the effect is likely to be limited. However, if you’re perpetually shopping around for new credit (a personal loan here, a credit card there), lenders may raise an eyebrow. Too many applications for credit can ding your score.
Also keep in mind that the rate-shopping window doesn’t apply to credit cards. Every credit card you open will come with a hard credit check. The impact of this credit check is not mitigated because you submitted other credit card applications. In other words, multiple credit card applications in a short period of time may have a more lasting detrimental impact on your score than if you were shopping for a single mortgage.
How to Reduce the Impact of Credit Inquiries on Your Credit
Perhaps the simplest way to reduce the impact of credit inquiries on your score is to limit the number of inquiries requested. This means you would sparingly apply for loans and lines of credit only when you truly need to. Along with helping you avoid the negative impact of hard inquiries, keeping your credit use to a minimum can help ensure you avoid a debt spiral and stay in the best possible financial position to repay the loans you do have.
Can Inquiries on My Credit Report Be Disputed?
Credit score monitoring is important and can be done for free through several channels, including credit card companies, banks, and credit counselors.
It’s also wise to regularly review your entire file every few months to look for inaccuracies. If you notice a credit inquiry on your report that you don’t recognize, you can dispute it with the reporting credit bureau — and you should. You should also reach out to the financial institution that made the inquiry and inform them that it was not a legitimate request.
In addition, you can dispute any erroneous items on your report, such as an indication that a debt you paid off is still pending.
Recommended: Why Did My Credit Score Drop After a Dispute?
Can You Remove Credit Inquiries From a Credit Report?
The only way hard credit inquiries can be removed from your credit report is if they were made fraudulently. In this case, you should go through the process of filing a dispute with the reporting bureau, as outlined above. These days, most credit file disputes can be made online, but you can also file a dispute by mail.
Avoid Unnecessary Applications Prior to Applying for a Home or Auto Loan
Since hard credit inquiries can have a negative impact on your score, it’s a good idea to avoid applying for unnecessary lines of credit shortly before applying for a more substantial one, like a mortgage or auto loan.
Credit card applications in particular can be a slippery slope since they may be extremely easy to apply for and may offer rewards for doing so. If you’re planning for bigger financial moves in the near future, steer clear if you can.
Recommended: How to Lower Credit Card Utilization
The Takeaway
All types of credit inquiries stay on your report for up to two years, though only hard inquiries can have an impact on your score and are visible to others. Typically, a hard inquiry can lower your score up to 10 points; soft inquiries, on the other hand, have no impact. While credit card applications always lead to a hard inquiry, multiple applications for an auto or home loan in a short amount of time may appear as a single inquiry on your credit report.
As you consider your credit report, it may make sense to track your finances more closely. Tools like a spending app can help you set budgets, manage bill paying, and more.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
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FAQ
Can you remove credit inquiries from your credit report?
Unless you notice fraudulent credit inquiries on your report, hard inquiries will usually stay on your record for up to two years, which is a relatively short time frame in the world of credit reporting. If you do see a hard inquiry you don’t recognize, dispute the inquiry with the credit bureau and the financial institution involved immediately. Worth knowing: Soft credit inquiries stay on your report for a similar period of time, but they are visible only to you.
How many hard inquiries are too many?
There’s no hard and fast answer to this question. Generally speaking, the fewer hard inquiries your credit report sees, the better. There is an exception when you’re shopping around for a home or auto loan. As long as all the hard inquiries are for the same type of financial product and are made within a relatively short time frame (usually 14 to 30 days), they’ll appear as a single hard inquiry and have only a single hard inquiry’s impact on your credit score.
How much will a credit score decrease for each inquiry?
While the specifics can depend on the rest of your credit file, generally speaking a hard inquiry will lower your score only about five to 10 points. However, if you apply for multiple credit cards or many different types of loans in a short period of time, the inquiries may have a more substantial impact, especially if your credit file is slim or imperfect.
Does your credit score go up when hard inquiries fall off?
Hard credit inquiries usually have only a slight impact on your overall credit score. While it’s possible you may see a small increase to your score when they fall off, other positive markers, like on-time payments and lowering total credit balance, are more likely to help build your score.
Photo Credit: iStock/Kateryna Onyshchuk SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.
*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.
Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .
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.
In the United States, full retirement age actually varies depending on the year you were born. But if you were born in 1960 or later, your full retirement age is 67. Full retirement age (FRA) is the age at which you become eligible to receive your full retirement, or Social Security benefits. FRA is a key milestone in life and a crucial component of the U.S. Social Security system.
It impacts how much you’ll receive monthly, when you can claim Social Security in full, and how much your delayed retirement credits will increase over time. Your Social Security benefits will, likely, also have an effect on the decisions you make around your strategies for saving and investing for retirement, too.
Key Points
• Full retirement age varies depending on birth year. It ranges from 66 for those born from 1943 to 1954 to 67 for those born in 1960 or later.
• You can claim your Social Security benefits before FRA (as early as age 62), but your benefit will be permanently reduced by up to 30%.
• You can delay your retirement to increase your monthly benefit by 8% for each year of delay (up until age 70).
• You can still work after you’ve started collecting Social Security retirement benefits. But if you’re younger than FRA and earn above certain limits, your benefits may be reduced. There’s no earnings limit once you reach FRA.
What is Full Retirement Age?
Full retirement age (FRA) is the age at which you become eligible to receive 100% of your monthly primary insurance amount (PIA), which is the starting point for calculating your Social Security retirement benefit.
The PIA is the base monthly payment you should receive once you retire. It’s based on your past earnings and adjusted for inflation. In general, here’s how it works:
• If you retire once you’ve reached your exact FRA, you’ll receive 100% of your PIA.
• Retiring earlier will reduce your monthly Social Security retirement benefit to a smaller percentage of your PIA (but no less than 70% of it — more on this later).
• Conversely, if you delay retirement beyond your FRA, your Social Security retirement benefit will be a higher percentage of your PIA.
The bottom line is that because your Social Security retirement benefit is permanently set based on when you retire relative to your FRA, knowing your FRA is extremely important. Even if you’ve done some planning and opened an online IRA or other retirement account.
And, as noted, having an idea of what you can or should expect from your Social Security benefits can have a profound impact on your strategies as they relate to investing for retirement. Since many people may hope to supplement their Social Security income with their own savings and investment income, it can change the calculus in terms of when you’re able to retire.
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Determine Your Full Retirement Age
As mentioned, FRA varies depending on your birth year. If you were born in 1960 or later, your FRA is 67. For those born before 1960, FRA decreases by two months for each year earlier, down to 66 for those born between 1943 and 1954.
Here’s a table to clarify the math:
Social Security Retirement Age Chart
Year of Birth
Full Retirement Age
Months between 62 and FRA
Maximum PIA reduction if you retire at 62
Months between 70 and FRA
Maximum PIA increase if you retire at 70
1943 to 1954
66
48
-25%
48
+32%
1955
66 and 2 months
50
-25.83%
46
+30.67%
1956
66 and 4 months
52
-25.67%
44
+29.33%
1957
66 and 6 months
54
-27.5%
42
+28%
1958
66 and 8 months
56
-28.33%
40
+26.67%
1959
66 and 10 months
58
-29.17%
38
+25.33%
1960 and later
67
60
-30%
36
+24%
Source: Social Security Administration
Why Full Retirement Age Matters
FRA is a key factor in deciding when to start collecting Social Security benefits. Claim them too early, and your monthly check will be permanently reduced. Wait too long, and you won’t get any additional benefits. So, if you’re trying to figure out how to retire early, this could become a key piece of information in your calculations.
As mentioned, you’ll receive 100% of your PIA if you retire exactly at your FRA. You can apply for Social Security and start collecting earlier, but no earlier than age 62. And your benefits will be reduced for each month you begin early. How much? Here’s a recap:
• 5/9 of 1% for each month up to 36 months before your FRA
• 5/12 of 1% for each month over 36 months before your FRA
For example, if your FRA is 67, and you retire at 65 (i.e., 24 months earlier), your benefits will be reduced by:
24 months x 5/9 x 1% = 13.33%
That means your monthly benefit will be (100 – 13.33)% = 86.67% of your PIA.
If that sounds too complicated, you can check the retirement age calculator on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website.
But that’s not all. If you retire earlier than 65, the age of eligibility for Medicare, you may need to pay for your own healthcare coverage until you turn 65. If your previous job included medical benefits and you retire before becoming eligible for Medicare, you may have to pay a monthly premium to maintain coverage during this interim period. This could increase your expected expenses in retirement.
Regardless, it may be a good idea to enroll in Medicare when you turn 65 or risk paying a late enrollment penalty when you do sign up. Make sure to factor this into your calculations.
If you retire later instead, delaying your retirement beyond your FRA will earn you more money in the form of delayed retirement credits (DRCs), which increase your monthly benefit. If you were born in 1943 or later, you’ll earn a 2/3 of 1% (roughly 0.67%) increase for each month after FRA, equating to an 8% increase per year. You can keep earning these benefits only up until age 70, so there’s no financial reason to wait beyond this age.
For example, if your FRA is 66 and you wait until 68 to retire, you will earn an increase of:
24 months x 2/3 x 1% = 16%
That means your monthly benefit will be (100 + 16)% = 116% of your PIA.
When to Start Collecting Social Security
Given that the average retirement age in the U.S. is 65 for men and 62 for women, many Americans do choose to retire before reaching full retirement age. But there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for when it’s the right time to choose to retire and start collecting Social Security benefits. It depends on several factors.
First, you should honestly assess your health situation.
• Is your life expectancy short or long?
• Are you in good enough health to keep working and earning?
• Do you have persistent health issues that require the best possible health insurance coverage?
• Do you have the means to pay for private insurance if you retire before you’re eligible for Medicare?
Your answers to these types of questions will steer you in the direction.
Additionally, if you’re the higher-earning spouse, your surviving partner might continue receiving your benefits for many years after your passing. In that case, it could make sense to wait to maximize their future benefits — especially if they’re younger than you.
Other considerations like immediate income needs, if you have money in a Roth IRA, the potential for reduced expenses in retirement, or foreseeable job instability (such as concerns about your employer’s financial health) might mean early retirement is the right call.
Further, it may be worthwhile to investigate how a traditional IRA or other type of retirement plan could affect your plans as well.
Early Versus Late Retirement
Here’s a quick recap of the pros and cons of waiting to claim benefits until after FRA versus before FRA:
Claiming Benefits Before FRA
Pros
Cons
Access to income sooner
Permanently reduced monthly benefits
Better if your life expectancy is shorter or you suffer from health issues
Reduced spousal and survivor benefits
Useful if your job stability is uncertain
Might need to pay for private health insurance until Medicare eligibility at 65
Claiming Benefits After FRA
Pros
Cons
Permanently increased monthly benefits
Access to income is delayed
Higher survivor benefits for your spouse
Risky if you have health issues
Potential for higher lifetime income
Can impact your lifestyle or quality of life
Working After Reaching Full Retirement Age
You can keep working and collecting a paycheck after reaching full retirement age. If you keep working after hitting your FRA, your Social Security benefits won’t take a hit. However, if you claim benefits earlier, the government might temporarily withhold some of the benefits until you reach your FRA.
In particular, you might face one of three scenarios:
1. If you’re under FRA for the entire year, you can earn up to $22,320 (in 2024) without any benefit reduction.
2. If you earn more than $22,320, the SSA will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $2 you earn above this limit.
3. In the year you reach FRA, the earnings limit increases to $59,520 (for 2024). The SSA will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $3 you earn above this limit. Only earnings up to the month before you reach FRA count toward this limit.
This provision is known as the retirement earnings test (RET) and is periodically adjusted to account for inflation.
Once you reach FRA, the SSA will recalculate your benefits to account for the months when benefits were withheld due to excess earnings. So, while you don’t get a lump sum back, you do get higher payments for the rest of your life.
The Takeaway
Choosing the right time to apply for Social Security has a tremendous impact on your retirement strategy. Understanding what your full retirement age is factors heavily into this decision since it essentially defines the timing of your retirement. Whether you claim benefits early, at your FRA, or later will affect the amount of your checks. That will also come into play when seeing how far your savings and investments will take you, when paired with your Social Security benefits.
As you plan for your retirement, consider a savings strategy that can potentially offer you compound growth. SoFi Traditional IRAs or Roth IRAs allow you to invest your way. With investment options like stocks, ETFs, and more, you can invest your way. Save, invest, and watch your money grow as you work toward a secure and comfortable retirement.
Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).
FAQ
How does age affect my Social Security benefits?
Your Social Security benefits will be reduced by a percentage if you claim them before your full retirement age (FRA) and increased if you delay claiming them. The earlier you claim before FRA, the greater the reduction, the longer you wait, the higher the increase (up until age 70).
Can I choose to receive Social Security benefits earlier than full retirement age?
Yes, you can start receiving benefits as early as age 62, but the earlier you claim them, the more they will be reduced. Note that this reduction is permanent.
What is the significance of the full retirement age increase?
The increase in FRA means you must work longer to claim 100% of your benefits. For example, people born in 1954 could earn full benefits at age 66, while those born in 1960 or later must wait until age 67 for unreduced benefits.
Photo credit: iStock/JLco – Julia Amaral
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Pittsburgh, PA is a city with a fascinating industrial history and a breathtaking skyline, but it’s also full of unique experiences just waiting to be explored. Beyond the usual tourist spots, this lively city has a wealth of activities that highlight its eclectic culture and creative energy. Whether you’re wandering through hidden art installations, checking out quirky museums, or enjoying delicious bites at local favorites, the Steel City invites visitors and locals alike to dive into its dynamic neighborhoods.
Whether you’re looking to rent a house in Pittsburgh, looking for an apartment in the area, or buying your first home in the city, read on to uncover some of the most unique things to do in Pittsburgh, ensuring your time here is anything but ordinary.
1. Go on a Mac Miller self-guided tour
Pay tribute to the legendary Pittsburgh-born rapper Mac Miller by touring some of the locations that inspired many of the musician’s lyrics and albums. Mac Miller’s legacy continues to thrive through his music and the many tributes and landmarks around Pittsburgh that honor his influence.
Blue Slide Park
Located in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood, Blue Slide Park is infamous as the inspiration for Miller’s independently distributed debut album of the same name. The album is laced with reflections of Miller’s experience as a youth in Pittsburgh, and Blue Slide Park serves as place of tribute for the late rapper, reflecting themes of nostalgia and home – plus, it actually has a blue slide.
Frick Park Market
The title of a popular song from Miller’s first album, Frick Park Market is where the rapper worked once upon a time in Pittsburgh. The neighborhood deli is still around today, and the owners have taken great care to keep the energy of Miller alive in the shop. Stop by for a story while enjoying delicious fresh sandwiches for a fan experience you won’t forget.
Mac Miller murals
Serving as vibrant tributes to the beloved rapper, you can find notable murals memorializing the artist throughout the city. One of the most famous murals resides along the wall of ID Labs, the recording studio Mac Miller often recorded at. You can find other murals celebrating the life of Miller in the Lawrenceville neighborhood, inside the Monroeville Mall, and in East Liberty.
2. Quench your thirst at some of the best breweries in the country
“Pittsburgh has some of the best beer in the country – so much so that it is difficult to find a bad local craft beer,” confides Eric Truscott, co-founder of Acrospire Brewing Co, a much-loved Pittsburgh establishment. “They all have their own specialty and personality, but are welcoming and excited to show off their best brews.”
Eric’s hot tip for getting the most out of your Pittsburgh brewery experience? “Try something new and take a recommendation from the beertender. It may open you up to a whole new world of flavor. Beertenders are also a great resource for finding things to do in the ‘Burgh that are off the beaten path.”
If you’re still having a hard time deciding on which spots to try in the area, make sure you add these unique Pittsburgh breweries to your list.
Photo by Pittsburgh Brewing
Pittsburgh Brewing
“Exploring all that Pittsburgh has to offer wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the hometown brewery, Pittsburgh Brewing,” shares Rachel Semelbaur of the historical venue.
The brewery has been in the community for 160 years, and its new location on the Allegheny River boasts state-of-the-art brewing facilities amongst the bones of an old factory. Exposed steel beams and old red brick nod to the Iron City’s industrial history.
To top it off, the grounds double as an event venue, so you can grab a cold Iron City Beer and see your favorite artist perform in the fresh air. Make sure you catch a tour of the facility to really get a feel for the brewing process and glean more into Pittsburgh’s infamous distilling history.
Velum Fermentation
If you’re looking for a unique brewery experience in Pittsburgh, look no further than Velum Fermentation. More than just one of the newest breweries on the block, Velum Fermentation is also a bustling community hub. Their Southside Pils boasts 100% Pennsylvania-grown ingredients, and is just the icing on the cake. While you enjoy your beer, immerse yourself in the adult playground that is the Velum taproom.
Indoor/outdoor seating frame pickleball courts, event spaces, lawn games, and a pinball arcade, making Velum the perfect neighborhood brewery spot for your midweek brewski. Grab some friends and a beer to make the most of all the activities Velum has for you to enjoy.
The Church Brew Works
“And on the eighth day, man created beer,” exclaims the coasters at this unique Pittsburgh spot for beer. Housed inside the glorious walls of a former church resides The Church Brew Works, an award-winning restaurant and microbrewery. With remnants of church history scattered throughout, you likely haven’t enjoyed a cold one in a place quite like this. Nestled amongst stained glass and worn wooden pews, enjoy a holy experience of wood-fired pizza, an eclectic food menu, and fresh craft beers, brewed right on the altar.
3. Stay active with fitness with a twist
While Pittsburgh is known for its industrial history, intricate architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, there’s even more to do in the city than wander amongst the bridges, nature, and food and beverage scene. Try these unique ways to stay active while living in Pittsburgh.
FireWALL Dance
Why not spice up your time in Pittsburgh with a drop-in dance class? At FireWALL Dance Theater, you can choose from a wide variety of dance styles as a fun way to move your body. From contemporary to ballet to jazz to hip hop, even twerking, there’s something for everyone. You can even get a group together for a Sip N Get Sexy night, where you and your pals can knock back a bev to a themed dance class.
“Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, our inclusive studio fosters a warm and supportive atmosphere that keeps you coming back for more,” describes FireWALL Dance Studio manager Hanna Rubin. “Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting for the weekend, you’ll be embraced with open arms and encouraged to express yourself through movement.”
ASCEND Climbing
If you’re looking for an active challenge, add ASCEND Climbing to your list. This indoor climbing gym offers routes for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned climber or just starting out. With towering walls, bouldering areas, and friendly staff ready to help you out, climbing at ASCEND is a fun way to move your body and experience local community events. Plus, it’s a great place to meet other climbers and maybe even make some new friends. Bring your own gear or rent some on-site, and after, grab a beer from Velum Fermentation, located beneath the Southside location.
Level Up Studios
Unleash your creativity through movement and community through this hip-hop inspired studio in Pittsburgh. “Level Up Studios offers a range of dance and creative arts experiences,” shares the Level Up team. “Our space also doubles as a community hub, where local artists, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts come together to learn, grow, and express themselves.”
From K-Pop to hip-hop to even Bollywood dancing, Level Up brings a diverse range of dance options. If you can’t catch a class, make sure to check out one of the frequent community events that feature live music, art exhibitions, dancing, and their annual Level Up Block Party to get creatively inspired.
4. Explore some of the coolest neighborhoods in Pittsburgh
Another unique thing to do in Pittsburgh is explore the many neighborhoods. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods each possess a distinct personality that reflects the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. From the hustle and bustle of the Strip District to the independent vibe of Lawrenceville, here are three of Pittsburgh’s hot spots you should be exploring.
The Strip
“Once the center for the region’s wholesale produce industry, this now restored historic landmark offers a curated collection of retail, fitness, entertainment, and restaurant options,” shares Megan Warmouth, representing the Terminal in the Strip District neighborhood. “Start your day with a workout class or brush up on your golf game then treat yourself to a facial before doing some shopping. Afterwards, stop by one of The Terminal’s ten eateries for a taste of the city’s best culinary offerings.”
“As a new resident of Pittsburgh, exploring the historic Strip District neighborhood is a must, with wholesale ethnic grocers, gourmet food shops, and delicious restaurants,” agrees Gina Vensel, owner of Easy Street Promotions. “Explore the independent businesses located at The Pennsylvania Market, and new shops and restaurants at The Strip District Terminal including City Winery and Pitt Shack. The Strip has something for everyone.”
Despite all of the amazing places to explore in this iconic neighborhood, what are Vensel’s can’t-miss spots in The Strip? “Get a taste of Italy at La Prima Espresso Co. and Colangelo’s Pizza,” she shares. “Catch elders sitting al fresco playing cards and eating cannolis. The Strip exudes the vibrant mix of Pittsburgh‘s culture — a city blended with rich history and hip new development.”
Photo of The Terminal by Ed Massery Photography
Bloomfield
Initially settled by Italian immigrants, Bloomfield is Pittsburgh’s version of Little Italy. “A visit to Pittsburgh isn’t complete without exploring the Bloomfield neighborhood,” says Juan from P*Town Bar, a premiere destination bar and community hub for the LGBTQ+ community. “Dive into the rich blend of traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine and the vibrant bar scene that the city has to offer.”
Make sure you come hungry – in Bloomfield, you can shop at authentic Italian grocers, sample delicious Italian cuisine, and explore a wide variety of eclectic spots that have popped up over the years. Grab a bite at D’s Six Pax & Dogz, an award-winning hot dog eatery in the area, or browse for your next favorite book with a beer in hand at the independently-owned White Whale Bookstore. Catch a drag show, karaoke night, or themed party at the welcoming P*Town Bar, or just spend the day wandering the streets of Bloomfield, enjoying the variety of local shops and businesses in the area.
Lawrenceville
If you’re after Pittsburgh’s hippest art district, look no further than Lawrenceville. Old-world charm meets modern flair in a mish-mash of historic row houses interspersed with new urban dwellings. Home to artists, entrepreneurs, and one-of-a-kind businesses, Lawrenceville encapsulates a neighborhood feel with its emphasis on supporting small and local.
Stop by the many galleries, dining options, and boutiques, but make sure you don’t miss this Pittsburgh hidden gem in Lawrenceville: The Confidant Speakeasy. Only open Friday and Saturday nights, the tropical-themed bar is found down an alleyway known as Eden Way off Butler Street. You know you’re there when you see the green light illuminating the doorway. Small and intimate, The Confidant is the perfect date night or after-dinner spot for a clever cocktail or rotating pint.
5. Try wine tasting at these unique Pittsburgh vineyards
Pittsburgh hasn’t always had a flourishing wine scene – it’s only in recent years that the Steel City has begun to grow its appreciation for both local and international wines. Vineyards local to the western Pennsylvania region give you the chance to indulge in homegrown vino, while increasing urban wineries are focusing on intimate environments and global offerings. Here are two unique Pittsburgh wineries that give you the chance to try the local harvest and wines from afar.
Photo by Deer Creek Winery
Deer Creek Winery
If you’re on the hunt for unique experiences in Pittsburgh, Deer Creek Winery is a gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary. Nestled in the scenic countryside, this winery offers a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With a diverse selection of wines crafted from locally sourced grapes, you’ll find everything from crisp whites to rich reds to adventurous options that are released every few weeks.
“There are a lot of fun wineries to explore while in the Pittsburgh area, but only one that brings out different flavors every couple of weeks; at Deer Creek Winery, we call these our FUNTIME wines,” raves Rhonda Brooks, owner of Deer Creek Winery.
Brooks continues, “If you go a little further from the city, you can visit the historic winery and B&B at the Watson Estate in Uniontown, PA where you can not only taste wine, but have lunch or dinner, host a party or wedding or even just spend the night in the 1800s farmhouse.”
The inviting tasting room of the winery features a cozy atmosphere, perfect for sipping and savoring each pour. Plus, the outdoor patio provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for a leisurely afternoon. Keep an eye out for special events, like live music and seasonal festivals, or extend your experience by treating yourself to a room at the scenic inn on site.
Photo by Refucilo Winery
Refucilo Winery
At Refucilo Winery, you have the unique chance to experience high-quality Argentinian wine right in Pittsburgh. The Northside hidden gem is Dr. Juan Lora and his wife Cecilia Lora’s passion project, inspired by days in the Dominican Republic sailing on his uncle’s boat, Refucilo. Longtime home winemakers, the couple eventually decided to purchase a vineyard in the Uco Valley of Argentina to bring their passion to their current home of Pittsburgh.
“The Malbec and Torrontes grapes are meticulously harvested by hand, transformed into award-winning wines, and transported to the intimate tasting room where specialists pair the wine with tapas,” confirms Christine Whispell of Refucilo Winery. “We suggest finishing the night with a unique malbec sorbet. But whether you’re looking for herbal, light and refreshing; plum, velvet and chocolate; or rich, ripe, tobacco, and spice, all of the wines at Refucilio are fermented dry and will leave you wanting more.”
6. Check out the unique Pittsburgh art scene
Another unique thing to do in Pittsburgh is explore the diverse art scene. From iconic establishments like the Andy Warhol museum to lesser-known finds amongst the city, Pittsburgh offers something for everyone. Tours, murals, neighborhood art crawls, and festivals are just the tip of the emerging Pittsburgh art scene.
The Mattress Factory
Despite its name, the Mattress Factory now resembles nothing of the sort; rather, the old factory building houses both permanent and rotating contemporary art over three city blocks. Featuring works by both established and emerging artists, the museum focuses on site-specific installations that engage with the unique spaces of the museum. You won’t find walls of paintings here. Instead, you’ll find yourself immersed in sound baths, reflecting in rooms of mirrors, and wandering decrepit grounds, thoroughly expanding the bounds of avant-garde.
Monthly art crawls
Otherwise known as “Unblurred,” wander the streets of the Arts and Commercial District in Garfield the first Friday of every month to explore art galleries, pop-up shops, live music, and more. Unblurred grew out of the Penn Avenue Arts Initiative, which was an effort to revitalize the street with art galleries and studios. Though it’s evolved over the years, Unblurred has been around since 1998, one of the longest-running art initiatives in the state. The summer months are the best time to experience the event, where you can wander the lively streets, duck in and out of galleries, and partake in the Garfield Night Market, which runs adjacent to Unblurred and features a variety of local vendors and artists.
Yearly events
Be sure to make room in your schedule for these unique art experiences in Pittsburgh. From live music, glowing exhibits, and interactive hobby classes, here are a few must-try events that only happen once a year.
Art All Night
Art All Night is a 22-hour grassroots art festival, featuring live performances, films, community-submitted works of art, and lots of food. Hosted throughout different buildings in Pittsburgh April each year, you can expect anything from drum circles to fiery tubas to provocative sculptures; everything and everyone is represented in this one-day arts festival. Submissions range from drawings by children to professional artists, an art show that is truly for the people, by the people.
Creative Arts Festival
Don’t just admire the local craft, but learn a new hobby if you happen to be in town during Pittsburgh’s yearly Creative Arts Festival, which is often hosted each year at the end of August. Focusing on textile experiences such as knitting, crocheting, jewelry making, and many others, the Creative Arts Festival celebrates the long-standing art of handmade crafts.
“Be sure to add the Pittsburgh Creative Arts Festival to your agenda!” raves Laura Regan, a longtime participant of the festival and now heads the initiative. “We are a 3-day festival with a vibrant marketplace and 70 classes in many creative arts: knitting, crochet, sewing/quilting, polymer clay, weaving and much more. We look forward to getting your creative juices flowing while having lots of fun.”
7. Visit an array of weird local spots
These unique local spots in Pittsburgh embody funky, making them a must-do if you’re after a one-of-a-kind, unusual experience in the city.
The Zenith
Vegetarian cuisine meets art gallery meets antique shop at this eclectic Pittsburgh restaurant. At the Zenith, shop vintage wares while enjoying an affordable meal in the city that focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and stay for the variety of events the space hosts, from music and poetry to art shows.
Bayernhof Museum
Located inside a historic mansion, the Bayernhof Museum showcases the elaborate music collection of its former long-term resident, Charles B. Brown III. These aren’t just any instruments, however; the collection consists of a large amount of functional, self-playing instruments. Besides housing historic musical machines, the mansion itself features ancient stone walls and a feature wall of windows, providing sweeping views of the river below. Interspersed throughout are numerous wet bars and secret passageways that you’ll encounter throughout your time in the museum, reflecting the eccentric nature of its former owner.
Trundle Manor
A self-proclaimed tourist trap, Trundle Manor is probably one of the most unique places to visit in Pittsburgh. The manor is actually the residence of artist couple Anton and Rachel Miriello, who acquired the home over 15 years ago and have since filled the space with their private collection of oddities. Inside, you’ll find all things creepy and ghoulish, from vintage taxidermy to smiling knick-knacks, to a singing tumor in a jar (yep, you heard that right).
8. Unique things to do in Pittsburgh for all ages
From educational experiences to outdoor adventures to local attractions, Pittsburgh has plenty to explore that caters to a variety of interests and ensures that everyone can find something unique to do in the area.
Photo by Trail Adventures
Get out on the trails
If you’re looking for a unique summer activity in Pittsburgh that gets the kids immersed in nature, why not try mountain biking?
“Trail Adventures offers exciting and engaging youth mountain biking clinics and summer camps for interests and abilities from mild to wild,” shares the outdoor adventure founder Cody Pletz. Classes take kids through the trails of North Park and Hartwood Acres, all while developing necessary skills like trail etiquette and bike technique in the great outdoors.
“Our goal is to spark passion for a wonderful sport that will keep kids exploring, active, and healthy for life,” promises Pletz.
Shop for a new book – for free
Give the kids an experience they won’t forget by taking them to B is for Books, a free children’s bookshop. Located right beside Pittsburgh’s waterfront shopping complex, the Ready Ready Pittsburgh initiative opened the bookstore in early 2024 as a way to give high quality reading materials back to the community.
“Every child ages birth to 18 that comes through our door can choose three free books to take home and keep – we aren’t a library.” says Mark Sepe from Reading Ready Pittsburgh. “There are no income requirements, and you can come as many times as you please. The bookstore also offers helpful resources, a reading nook, and plenty of activities to enjoy.”
A weekend itinerary for Pittsburgh with kids
“As a mother of two, these are some of our favorite things to do in Pittsburgh,” reveals Emily Papa, a publisher for the event calendar Macaroni KID.
Papa recommends: “Spend a day at Kennywood Amusement Park, enjoy an afternoon on one of our three rivers (whether it be kayaking or on a Gateway Clipper Cruise), explore our incredible local parks (Mingo Creek Park is a favorite), grab a slice of pizza from Fiori’s Pizza, and sweeten the day with a $5 box of candy from Grandpa Joe’s. There are always so many events happening, so we always check the Macaroni KID event calendar to help find fun!”
9. One day in the Steel City
If you just have one day in Pittsburgh, why not see the best views and make the most of your time sampling the local cuisine? For a jam-packed day full of nature, make sure you check out these Pittsburgh bucket list spots.
“When you’re in Pittsburgh, our two must-do experiences are the National Aviary and the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where you can spend a whole day wandering the gardens,” suggest Scott and Melissa Barronton of the travel blog Sunshine Travelers. “Since these spots are both indoors, you don’t have to worry about the weather.”
Must-visit food spots for your day in Pittsburgh come highly recommended from the Sunshine Travelers as well. “Get lunch at The Porch at Schenley, located between the Aviary and Gardens. After, ride the Duquesne Incline and have dinner at Monterey Bay Fish Grotto, but be sure to get reservations ahead of time. For a treat, don’t miss brunch or cocktails at The Speckled Egg in the beautifully renovated Union Trust Building.”
Unique things to do in Pittsburgh, PA: Final thoughts
Pittsburgh is brimming with unique experiences that go beyond the typical itinerary, offering an eclectic mix of art, adventure, places to explore, and is also a great place to live. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, there’s always something new to discover in this historic city. From hidden art gems to Pittsburgh’s vibrant neighborhoods, the Steel City invites you to explore and connect with its local spirit.
When considering moving to Iowa, many factors come into play, including job opportunities, lifestyle, and community vibes. With its mix of charming small towns and bustling cities, the question arises: is Iowa a good place to live? In this article, we’ll explore what life is like in Iowa and provide a balanced perspective on the pros and cons of calling this Midwestern state home.
Is Iowa a good place to live?
Iowa seamlessly combines the allure of rural landscapes with the conveniences of urban living, attracting a diverse range of residents. Cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids provide lively cultural scenes, with theaters, galleries, and music festivals that cater to various tastes. The arts community thrives, thanks in part to organizations like the Des Moines Arts Festival and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art.
Additionally, If you love the outdoors, you will find plenty to do in Iowa. The state has an extensive network of parks, trails, and rivers, perfect for hiking, biking, and fishing. The scenic beauty of the Loess Hills and the rolling landscapes along the Mississippi River provide stunning backdrops for weekend adventures. With a slower pace of life, Iowa is a great place to live, but it does come with challenges to consider.
Iowa state overview
Population
3190,369
Biggest cities in Iowa
Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport
Average rent in Des Moines
$1,114
Average rent in Cedar Rapids
$810
Average rent in Davenport
$987
1. Pro: The cost of living is affordable
Iowa stands out for its incredibly low rental prices, making it an appealing choice to live. In cities like Des Moines, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment hovers around $1,100, significantly less than comparable metropolitan areas like Chicago, where prices can soar above $2,000. Other cities, such as Cedar Rapids, offer even more affordable options, with average rents around $800, respectively. This lower cost of living not only allows residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle but also frees up funds for savings, investments in education, or recreational activities, making Iowa a good place to call home.
2. Con: There are limited job opportunities
Some residents find that job opportunities in Iowa, specifically in specialized fields, can be limited. Higher-paying positions tend to cluster in urban centers like Des Moines, leaving rural areas with fewer options. This can create challenges for those seeking careers in specific industries, such as technology or healthcare. Consequently, individuals may need to commute long distances or consider relocating, which can be a significant drawback for many.
3. Pro: Iowans are friendly
Iowans are renowned for their genuine friendliness and hospitality. The state’s agricultural roots create a community, where neighbors often know each other and lend a helping hand. This welcoming culture is evident in local events, community gatherings, and volunteer opportunities that encourage participation and connection. Newcomers often find it easy to settle in and make friends, which can significantly enhance their overall living experience.
Insider scoop: If you’re new to Iowa, attending a local county fair or farmers’ market is a great way to dive into the community. These events are not just about shopping and entertainment; they also offer a chance to meet locals who are eager to share stories, recommend favorite spots, and introduce you to traditional Iowa treats.
4. Con: There are a lack of major urban centers
For individuals accustomed to the fast-paced lifestyle of major urban centers, Iowa’s largest cities may feel small and limiting. With a population of around 214,000, Des Moines lacks the diverse cultural offerings, extensive nightlife, and shopping options found in cities like Chicago or New York. While local amenities exist, those seeking vibrant urban experiences may find Iowa’s offerings insufficient.
5. Pro: Iowa has a strong agricultural heritage
Iowa takes immense pride in its agricultural heritage, being one of the leading producers of corn and soybeans in the nation. This connection to the land cultivates a strong community identity, with local fairs and events, such as the Iowa State Fair, celebrating farming traditions and innovations. Agricultural practices are often linked to sustainability, with many farmers implementing eco-friendly techniques.
Insider scoop: Visiting the Iowa State Fair is a must for anyone wanting to experience the heart of Iowa’s agricultural culture. Beyond the famous fried foods and carnival rides, you’ll find livestock competitions, live demonstrations of farming techniques, and even opportunities to meet local farmers.
6. Con: Seasonal allergies can be tough to manage
Iowa’s extensive agricultural landscape can pose challenges for residents with allergies, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. Pollen from crops such as corn and soybeans can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. This issue may impact daily life, especially for those who enjoy outdoor recreation.
Insider scoop: If you’re prone to allergies, consider investing in an air purifier for your home and keep windows closed during peak pollen times.
7. Pro: Iowa has a unique food scene
Iowa’s food scene is rich and diverse, showcasing local ingredients and culinary traditions. The state is famous for its Maid-Rite sandwich, a loose-meat sandwich that has become a staple in local diners. Additionally, a growing farm-to-table movement emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients in restaurants and markets. Farmers’ markets in cities like Iowa City and Ames feature seasonal produce, homemade goods, and artisanal products, you don’t want to miss.
8. Con: Beware of the natural disaster risks
Iowa is susceptible to various natural disasters, including tornadoes, floods, and severe storms. Residents must stay informed about weather conditions and prepare for potential emergencies, which can be stressful. Tornadoes can occur during the spring months, leading to the need for emergency plans and preparedness kits. Flooding, especially in areas along the Mississippi River, can cause property damage and disrupt daily life, making disaster awareness essential for all residents.
Insider scoop: Many communities in Iowa hold annual emergency preparedness workshops, teaching residents how to create effective disaster plans.
9. Pro: There are plenty of seasonal festivals to enjoy
Iowa hosts a variety of seasonal festivals that celebrate its culture, history, and agricultural heritage. The Iowa State Fair is a highlight, attracting over a million visitors each year who come to enjoy rides, live music, and delicious food. Other events like the Pufferbilly Days in Boone and the Tulip Time Festival in Pella showcase local traditions and crafts. These festivals foster a community and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to connect.
10. Con: You may feel rural isolation
Many Iowans live in rural areas, which can create a sense of isolation, particularly for those used to urban living. Residents in towns like Fairfield may need to travel long distances for essential services, shopping, and entertainment. While the peaceful rural lifestyle has its charms, it can also feel disconnected, especially for newcomers accustomed to more vibrant social scenes.