I agree that many things are probably wrong with our economy that are affecting you. But what you said doesn't add up to me. Maybe there are many things chippin

I agree that many things are probably wrong with our economy that are affecting you. But what you said doesn't add up to me. Maybe there are many things chipping away at your wealth which you haven't been accounting for? If $110k is your take-home (after taxes), you are single, and your expenses are so low, it seems you could be saving quite a lot. I know many people with similar income and expenses, and they save tens of thousands per year. This allows them to spread savings across IRAs, mutual funds, and regular savings accounts to build wealth. Perhaps like many who make a ~100k range salary, you pay upwards of 30% of it to taxes? This is a huge chunk. You drive; are you sure you haven't spent more on gas than you have on dental? You mentioned dental as your third biggest expense in the last two years. This seems unusual. Gas, food, and other common expenses often make up for a large portion of total expenses. If your medical and dental expenses are that high, that's unfortunate. But you say you have some decent savings, so good for you! That shows you have the financial strength to make it through tough medical situations :) If you have more savings than most people you know, maybe you shouldn't be feeling so pressured. Most people aren't "making it" because they have no savings--but you are! Having debt is a common reason for feeling financially stressed. If you have debt, see a debt counselor or financial advisor and create a plan to get rid of it, fast. They may advise you to use a chunk of savings for eliminating debt. You say you eat out "some of the time". Most people I know say that, and they mean "at least one meal per day". This is not good for your finances! I personally increased my monthly savings by 50% once I limited my takeout to once per week, cooking the rest of my meals myself. Lots of times it helps to have a financial advisor. If you do this, spend plenty of time finding a good one who you're comfortable with, who listens to your concerns, etc. Bottom line: track down where that $110k is disappearing to! You should feel comfortable at that salary. Especially over time, as you save and build wealth! Hope this helps, or at least gives you some ideas.