Cost of Living by State.org » Cost of living Comparison

The Cost of Electricity on the rise in Florida

Bill — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 01:10:14 +0000

Electric Bills raise the Cost of living in Florida

After two years of bill reductions Progress Energy will raise electric bills in 2012. The Florida Public Service Commission received approval November 22 to increase rates by 3 percent. To give you an idea of how much this will cost Floridians, considering the usage of 1,000 kilowatt hours, Florida electric cost will increase to $123.19 per month. This is compared to the $119.34 per month, the cost in Florida currently. For commercial and industrial customers, bills will increase 4% and 5% respectively.

Why the sudden Increase in Cost?

The justification for the increased cost of electricity in Florida is due to the Crystal River Nuclear Power being out of service. This has resulted in more natural gas consumption, which is more expensive then Nuclear power. The Crystal River Nuclear Plant is Progress Energy’s lowest-cost generation unit and provides service to more than 1.6 million people living in Florida.

Are Florida Law Makers Picking Favorites?

Instead of allowing market forces to prevail is appears that members of the Florida state legislature are stacking the deck. Back in 2006 the Florida Legislature passed a bill to allow Power companies to raise the cost of electricity in Florida to fund the construction of nuclear reactors.

The key point is that your electric bill will go up before construction even begins. Now this is in stark contrast of how the rules apply to other energy sources. In every case except for Nuclear your power company is not allow to raise your bill due to construction cost until the work is actually completed.

I find this very unconstitutional because it is not Florida’s job to pick winners and looser via legislation. But what I’m going to say next is even more appalling.

The early cost recovery statute in this piece of legislation states that even if the project is abandoned the Power company can still recover the cost of construction via your power bill!

Read more on the Cost of living in Florida

Make a new Cost of living comparison

Will California Tax Tweaks Raise Cost of living?

Bill — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:30:56 +0000

The cost of living in every state is on the rise. California is no exception. There are many proposed taxes hikes that state leaders are trying to sneak on the 2012 ballots.

Taxing Crude Oil and the Cost to Californians

The proposal is to levy a 9.9% extraction fee on each barrel of oil. City leaders are saying the oil taxes could bring in up to $3.5 billion for schools, while somehow preventing oil companies from raising the price of gasoline.

The opposition states that this would result in reduced in-state production, leading to an estimated loss of 10,000 jobs. And that the price of oil could increase by $1.3 billion a year which would ultimately lead to higher gas prices for people of California.

Governor Brown’s 7 Billion Dollar Tax Measure

California Governor Jerry Brown wants to raise taxes on the rich and raise sales tax. He is trying to push the measure on to next November’s ballot along with other tax measures.

Brown’s plan is to impose an extra 1% income tax on people making $250k a year, and 1.5% on those making $300k a year and 2% on individuals earning $500k a year. He also is pushing for a .5% sales tax hike much like Governor Chris Gregoire is attempting in Washington state. The California governor states the extra cost in taxes would last through 2016.

A projected $13 billion budget deficit has prompted this decision to raise cost of living in California The Brown Tax plan promises to reduce that deficit. Although a state budget watchdog agency reported much of the revenue promised wouldn’t materialize.

The measure would require a two-thirds super-majority vote and the Democrats control the legislature. Even so they are short votes , so without support from a few Republicans the initiative will be blocked. Earlier this year Republicans blocked a similar attempt to raise taxes.

Orange County Schools Could lose Property Tax Earmarks

Bill — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:09:11 +0000

Orange County officials stated that because of budget shortfalls they may divert property tax revenues away from public schools in January and May of next year. As a result hundreds maybe joining the unemployment line. The extra funds would be used to maintain correctional facilities and pay down the counties debts.

Are Politicians Breaking the Law?

It is interesting to note that the state is investigating the legality of Orange Counties desire to divert over 73 million dollars from public schools. A spokesperson for the state finance department stated that if Orange County follows through on its vow to redirect the funds, the state might take legal action against the county.

County Auditor David Sundstrom said he would not redirect the funds if he thought it was illegal and is trying to work with the state to find a resolution.

Citizens Willing to Pay more Tax for better education

According to a recent poll Californian’s are willing to raise their cost of living in order to fund better education. The 64% of Californian’s are advocating for a public school system that has endured three years of deep budget cuts. The general consensus, California’s public schools are in horrible shape. They are absolutely right for 66% of students in California have a GPA of 2.0 or below. Out of those polled many cited budget cuts ,wasteful spending and bureaucratic as the cause. And they’d be right!!

Does Education Need the Private Sector?

This is a future article because I feel very strongly about this subject. Should it be the government’s job to provide education to its citizens or simply regulate it? Wouldn’t education be better off in the private sector?

I know most companies have to answer to investors, make a profit and provide a quality product to be competitive. The Government has to do none of those things.

How would public schools do in a fair non-monopolized market? Think of the product our government is providing our children and then think how much money they are wasting to do so. Private and Charter schools are more regulated by the government, waste less, and could be funded with a lot less if the right strategy was employed.

The Latest on Health Care cost in Hawaii

Bill — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 21:11:28 +0000

Cost of living in Hawaii could be on the rise again in lieu of proposed Health care increases. Kaiser Permanente and the Hawaii Medical Service Association are lobbying the state division to raise premiums upwards. Unfortunately this is a nation wide trend but Hawaiian’s can not afford yet another raise in their cost of living. With a weak economy and job market along with high energy and food costs the citizens of Hawaii are already finding it difficult to make ends meet.

The Proposed Raise in Insurance Premiums

The Hawaii Medical Service Association after raising premiums 11.7% two years ago and 14.8% this year are trying to increase rates for 84,000 members by 3.6% starting next year. HMSA is celebrating a $5.8 million profit this quarter and hopes to host an even bigger party at the end of the 1st quarter next year. They did post a $4.1 million loss a year earlier.

The state division has received a proposal from Kaiser Permanente to raise their premiums 8.8%. This would affect 160,000 members. This increase would also start at the beginning of the year. Kaiser enjoyed a $2.8 million profit in the second quarter following increases of 12.6% this year and 10.7% last year. They lost $5.1 million last year.

The federal health reform act if passed will require insurers to submit a request for approval to state or federal reviewers for increases of 10% or more. Note the 2 above provider’s rate increases are reduced from double digital percentages last year to single digit percentage next year. Just an after thought!

The Average Cost of Medical insurance in Hawaii

Medical insurance premiums across the board increased from 12.3% to 17.8% according to a recent report. The annual yearly premium cost is projected to reach 20k by 2020 for families and $7,000 for individuals. Hawaii at this time is at the low end when compared to the rest of the nation. Hawaii currently ranks 3rd lowest in family premiums. Health care premiums averaged $12,00 last year. The U.S. average was $13,871. For individual coverage Hawaii’s cost is the 2nd lowest with an average price of 4,000 a year. We could obtain the national average for individuals.

How Energy Comsumption affects the Cost of Living for every Hawaiian

Bill — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:13:27 +0000

Hawaii is in dire straits when it comes to energy. Although Hawaii has taken enormous strides to develop alternative energy projects it still is a long way from getting its fossil fuel dependency under control. The cost to Hawaiian is nothing less then shocking. Hawaii ranks 2nd now to Connecticut in energy consumption.

The Facts Regarding the Cost of Energy in Hawaii

How does energy consumption affect the cost of living in Hawaii and what steps are being taken to reduce Hawaii’s fossil fuel reliance? Also – Rebates for Hawaiians looking to buy Green.

Last year Hawaii utilities used 11.3 million barrels of petro to produce energy at a cost of almost $900 million. This is a huge number when compared to per capita numbers in other states.

Hawaiians spend roughly $175 per month on electric bills and consumed an average of 615 kWh monthly.

46.3 million barrels of petroleum were imported last year. Divide this by the population and you get 36.776 barrels of petroleum per person. Import costs total over 4 thousand per person every year. These numbers are almost unbelievable. How much do you think this impacts the cost of living in Hawaii?

If Hawaii’s Clean Energy Initiative goals are met, it is estimated that 60% of all electricity provided by utility companies will be as a result of fossil fuel.

Hawaii’s Green Potential

A significant portion of energy needs could be met by renewable resources and energy optimization.

Hawaii has a huge advantage in promoting energy efficiency in current buildings as well as constructing “net-zero energy” buildings that have the potential to generate as much energy as they consume.

Hawaii is blessed with many natural resources such as wind, hydroelectric, solar, geothermal, bio fuels produced by agriculture, and the ocean.

Energy Rebates Available for Hawaiians

Whole House Energy Monitor – 50% of the purchase price up to $100
$750 Solar Water Heating
$1,000 Solar Water Heating Interest loan Credit
$200 Heat Pump Water Heater

Solar Attic Fan – $50 | Whole House Fans – $75

Central AC Maintenance – $50

ENERGY STAR® Refrigerators with the purchase price of $600 or less – $50
ENERGY STAR® Refrigerators with Trade-in – $125
$50 ENERGY STAR® Top Tier Clothes Washers
$40 ENERGY STAR® Ceiling Fans
$110 ENERGY STAR® Ductless Split Air Conditioners
ENERGY STAR® Variable Refrigerant Flow Air Conditioners- $200

Instant $1 rebates on Compact Fluorescent Lamps

What is driving the cost of living in Hawaii

Bill — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 02:50:06 +0000

Lack of Competition in Shipping raises cost of living in Hawaii

Maritime laws in Hawaii prevent foreign ships from competing in the marketplace by limiting restrictions. These restrictions in-turn monopolize shipping hence raise prices to import and well as export. Since Hawaii imports most everything the effect on cost of living is far reaching. In particular the Jones Act and the Commerce Clause hindered the above stated. 95% of the available worldwide Merchant shipping fleets can not serve Hawaii.

Agriculture in Hawaii is suffering due to the expense of agricultural production. Specifically inbound shipping cost of fertilizers, herbicides and outbound shipping costs of fruits and livestock.

The amount of preservative chemicals it takes to keep food fresh while in route inflate prices. One of the reasons why food is more expensive in Hawaii is by virtue of the time it takes to get to the store. Supply issues are also affecting prices. This is all do to lack of competition in the shipping department.

Food prices in Hawaii are adversely affected by the Jones Act and the cost for local businesses to ship goods are so expensive it is ruining local economies. Hawaii is completely Mad Cow disease free and has a huge competitive advantage world wide. But shipping costs prevent Hawaii from being able to compete price wise.

What is the Jones act

The Merchant Marine Act of 1920 Section 27,states all goods transported between U.S. ports will be carried in American ships, made in America, owned and crewed by U.S. citizens. The law was invented to support the U.S. maritime industry.

What is The Commerce Clause

The Commerce Clause states that the United States Congress shall have power “To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes. Dispute exists within the courts as to the range of powers granted to Congress by the Commerce Clause

Advocating the Jones Act

Advocators of the Jones Act state that it is necessary to enforce the United State’s environmental and labor laws as well as protect national security.

Opponents of the Jones Act

Opponents argue that the Jones Act is costing Hawaiian households an estimated $3000 per year. And that abolishing the law will open up competition, lower shipping costs and unsure that consumers are getting the best products at the best prices while giving the local economy a much needed boost.

Cost of living in washington state – A .5 cent raise in Sales Tax

Bill — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 01:01:07 +0000

Watch the News Story

With a 1.5 Billion dollar deficit, Washington state is forced to make budget cuts. Of the most concerning are to education and social services. To combat this Governor Chris Gregoire is proposing a .5 cent raise in Washington’s sales tax. It would last three years (huh?) ,raise $494 million and be used to fund public education predominately. If passed Washington state would have a sales tax second to only California. This would increase Washington’s sales tax from 7% to 7.5%.

Interesting to note just last year a Tim Eyman initiative was passed that requires a two-thirds super-majority in the Legislature to raise taxes.

An estimated 1 thousand protestors rallied at Washington’s Capital

In the interest of not raising an already high cost of living in Washington, citizens rallied in protest. The occasion? The Legislature’s emergency budget session. Teachers, students, state employees, and the always vigilant Occupy protesters gathered this morning in Sylvester Park to let their voices be heard. The predominate message was “Tax the 1%, not the 99%”. There were also protests against cutting social services which were being discussed as well, in this morning’s session.

How do the majority of Voters feel about Proposal?

According to a new Elway Poll release Monday 45% of voters think raising taxes is a good idea. Most voters in Washington according the survey support or will most likely support the .5 cent sales tax increase. According to the Elway poll Washington voters are very divided on the issue of raising taxes versus cutting spending. 41% of voters support cutting spending over raising taxes and 39% are for raising taxes to avoid cuts in programs.

In reality doesn’t it all depend on what the proposed cuts are? If they were proposing to cut campaign finance the percentages would be completely different versus proposing to cut say.. Medicaid. Case in point, voters who participated in the poll supported raising taxes to save the programs Gregoire is wanting to cut. So it is clear that voters in Washington would rather raise their cost of living then have funding cut in education and other social service type programs. Either way, once again it is the poor and middle class that will have to suffer. Why is our government allowed to pick and choose the programs that are placed on the chopping block. Doesn’t the game seem a little rigged. What programs do you think should be cut out of our budget?

Participate in the discussion. Let your voice be heard!

Texas Cost of living – The Latest Changes in Health Care Cost

Bill — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 19:11:43 +0000

More bad news for Texans. Medical insurance premiums are on the rise and Medicaid reimbursement could be cut. The Cost of Employer sponsored health insurance in Texas is on the rise so naturally benefits are on the decline and proposed cuts in medicaid reimbursement rates could hurt the poorest of Americans.

The Rising Cost of Medical Insurance in Texas

According to the Commonwealth fund report between 2003 and 2010 the cost of insurance premiums for employees rose 52% for families and 45% for individuals. Deductibles more than doubled in that time.
Contact the Texas Department of Insurance if you feel the increases in your premiums lack justification.

Why the Increase in Healthcare Cost

According to the Commonwealth report the rising cost of healthcare is a nationwide epidemic. But the really head scratcher here is why the Texas health care rate of increase went from one of the lowest to one of the highest. When you look at the increase in Health care it is rising faster than the cost of living in Texas. Yes, cost of living is partly to blame for these increases but health reform can also be blamed. New stricter requirements on insurance companies are driving operating costs up and as usual these increases have been passed on to the consumer.

Medicaid Cuts

Texas is proposing to cut 35% a year out of the Medicaid program. Doctors are very concerned because of the toll it would take on children and the poorest of Texas. Cuts in co-payments to physicians will save the state millions but would prompt doctors not to practice in the poorer parts of Texas. Overall this change would make it harder for physicians to practice medicine in Texas. Doctors offices rely heavily on the Medicaid program for revenue.

How we can control the rise of Health care cost in Texas

Controlling healthcare cost in Texas is an enormous challenge and will need the assistance of the government, insurers, hospitals, doctors and the public alike.

Read more on the cost of living in Texas

California Government Retirees may not Lose Health care Benefits

Bill — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:19 +0000

The California Supreme Court ruled Monday that health benefits for government retirees in Orange county may not be eliminated. That implied contracts covering retiree healthcare benefits will be honored.

Unfortunately this is not the only instance of our government trying to rob our honored citizens of their medical benefits. Other cities, counties, and states in our great nation are regrettably following suit. This article focuses on the Sacramento County case.

The state of California’s attempt to eliminate Health care benefits in Sacramento County

In 2010 the Board of Supervisors in Sacramento County reduced the health care subsidy by $100 per month. This cut maximum benefits down from $244 to $144 a month. This year Sac County put further strain on the cost of living by setting the maximum to $80.64 per month. I would like to hear from our honored readers how much they pay on average for health care expenses. Please post your comments they are as always greatly anticipated.

The Counties Argument

Starting in 2003 the health care policies state that subsidies are not intrinsic. Meaning that there is no explicit contract in Sacramento County to provide county retirees any health care benefits. This is in stark contrast to the Orange County ruling which is over premiums not subsidies. According to the county the policy states that the retiree’s health care program is not a contract thus doesn’t provide any vested entitlement to benefits hence void of regulation.

Guess we should of read the fine print.
Where is the Governator when we need him. Is this astalavista healthcare benefits?

Supreme Court Ruling

Justice Marvin R. Baxter wrote
“Under California law, a vested right to health benefits for retired county employees can be implied under certain circumstances from a county ordinance or resolution,”

It is the hope of all California government retirees that this ruling will quell the counties attempts to reduce health care benefits and make sure they last a lifetime. Judges are government employees too and I’m sure this will aid in the association’s case. Times being as difficult as they are does not excuse this injustice.

The Affect the ruling has on California Retiree’s Cost of living

What is at stake here is obvious. It is hard enough for our seniors already. With the rising cost of living in California, most evident prescription drugs it is difficult if not impossible for our seniors to make ends meet. Why does our government continue to pick on them?

The Future of this case

Arguments to dismiss the suit against Sacramento County are scheduled for Tuesday. The case will go back to the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. Where the honorable Judge Kimberly J. Mueller hear the case.

California Housing Market News

Bill — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 20:46:25 +0000

Pending Homes Sales

In October California’s housing market showed positive growth for the sixth consecutive month.The California Association of Realtors showed that compared to a year ago open escrows increased 11%. This is a 2.9% increase when compared to September.

Closed Real Estate Sales

Sales in 2004, 2005 and 2006 averaged out to seven million. This year 5 million homes where sold which topped last year by 8.5 percent.

Future Projections for California’s housing market

The National Association of Realtors predicted a four to five percent increase in sales for 2012. Although the projected increase in home sales is an encouraging sign the increase in foreclosures is concerning.

After a year long slowdown banks are cracking down on troubled borrowers sending almost 78,000 properties into the foreclosure process this October. This is 7% higher than September.
It is evident that the housing market in California is still hovering at the bottom.

Full recovery in California’s housing market can not be achieved until we get through these foreclosures. This can not be achieved until the job market improves and the cost of living lowers. This directly affects the housing market because homeowners are very concerned about another drop in their debt to income ratio. Market stability will offer reassurance that will promote recovery by giving consumers enough confidence to raise their living expenses.

Lawmakers encouraging growth in California’s real estate market

On Friday Obama signed a bill that will reinstate FHA backed loan limits to $729,750. The limited was hastily reduced to $625,500 in October. This swift action was inspired by a sharp decrease in home sales nationally. Real Estate Sales in Orange and Los Angeles counties between $625,500 and $729,750 dropped last month. That was a 71% reduction when compared to September and 71.5% when compared to sales in October of last year.

It is clear that indecision, scrutiny of Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac, and the fact that the FHA might need a tax payer bail out will quell future growth.