In Atlanta, a research tech with diabetes reduces the cost of his insulin by demanding answers. Outside of Boston, a neighborhood bands together to provide free food to residents. In Rhode Island, a military spouse takes up part-time work to cover basic necessities. Hundreds of miles away in Chicago, two families team up to afford child care expenses. All across the country, Americans who are priced out come up with solutions to make ends meet.
The rising costs of everyday essentials and crucial services -- from housing and food to child care and health care -- are undermining the financial stability of US families. At CNET Money, we set out to show how people are coping through self-advocacy and reliance on their communities. The stories in our Priced Out series shine a spotlight on the essential tools and resources to navigate a changing economic world.
Paying the Price of Therapy: When Mental Health Treatment Is Out of Reach
Low-cost clinics, online apps and support groups are helping Americans get care that's more affordable and accessible.
Why Is It So Hard to Afford the Basic Things in Life? Here's What Experts Tell Us
The high cost of living is about way more than just inflation.
Health Care Is Too Expensive: How Patients Advocate for Themselves to Lower Costs
Understanding your medical coverage options and demanding answers are critical tools.
Housing Costs Are Unbearable. How Renters and Homeowners Are Adjusting
Rising rents and high mortgage rates in the US put a squeeze on family budgets.
The Child Care System Is Fraying at Both Ends
Child care costs are steep and providers are earning a pittance. Meanwhile, families are finding creative solutions.
Military Families Are Facing Their Own Housing Crisis
Long waiting lists for on-base housing and limited off-base resources are leaving military families with steep expenses.
Caring for Aging Relatives is Draining, Both Financially and Emotionally
This is how my family is navigating health insurance hurdles and high eldercare costs.
Millions of Americans Can't Afford Their Prescription Drugs. Now What?
As the cost of medication soars, patients are turning to online coupons and financial assistance programs.
The Latest
Housing Is the Biggest Expense for Families Living Paycheck to Paycheck
As rising rents and high mortgage rates squeeze family budgets, renters and homeowners find ways to adjust.
Everything Is Expensive. Here's Why It's So Hard to Afford Basic Goods and Services
The high cost of living is about way more than just inflation.
Paying the Price for Therapy: When Mental Health Treatment Is Out of Reach
Low-cost clinics, online apps and support groups are helping Americans get care that's more affordable and accessible.
Health Care Is Too Expensive: How Patients Advocate for Themselves to Lower Costs
Understanding your medical coverage options and demanding answers are critical tools.
Caring for Aging Relatives is Draining, Both Financially and Emotionally
This is how my family is navigating health insurance hurdles and high eldercare costs.
How Health Care Fails Pregnant Families
When health insurance falls short, pregnant parents find their own solutions to high out-of-pocket costs.
The Child Care System Is Fraying at Both Ends
Child care costs are steep and providers are earning a pittance. Meanwhile, families are finding creative solutions.
Food Prices Aren't Showing Signs of Slowing. Here's How Communities Are Stepping In
As the costs of everyday staples like bread and eggs rise, communities band together to offer free food and services.
Millions of Americans Can't Afford Their Prescription Drugs. Now What?
As the cost of medication soars, patients are turning to online coupons and financial assistance programs.